Curriculum

Overview of Charterhouse School’s Curriculum

At Charterhouse School, our curriculum stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and personal growth among its students. Tailored to meet the diverse needs and talents of every student, the curriculum promotes a love for learning, encourages intellectual curiosity, and develops the necessary skills for independent study.

The Under School: Years 9-11

Our journey begins in the Under School, encompassing the Fourth Form in Year 9 through to Year 11. The curriculum during these years is broad, laying a strong academic foundation across various subjects. As we move into Year 10, the curriculum allows us to start specializing in areas of interest. It’s also at this stage that we encounter “Reach Out,” a carefully designed Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) program, and “banco,” which demands independent study beyond the classroom, preparing us for the rigors that lie ahead.

Notably, every student in the Fourth Form studies Theology, opening up discussions on various faiths and philosophical debates—a reflection of the school’s commitment to holistic education. Furthermore, support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) ensures that everyone is given the opportunity to thrive.

The Specialists: Years 12-13

As we progress to the Sixth Form, the curriculum evolves to offer two main paths: A Levels complemented by an Extended Project Qualification and various electives, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. These choices allow us to tailor our education to our future aspirations. Electives such as American Literature, History of Art, and the Ivy House Leadership Award enrich our learning experience, cultivating our research, reading, and presentation skills in preparation for university.

The encouragement to engage in critical thinking, debates, and a plethora of extracurricular activities like sports and cultural events enriches our educational journey, preparing us for life beyond Charterhouse.

Additional Curriculum Highlights

Among the notable aspects of our curriculum is an innovative course in Informatics introduced to the youngest pupils, promoting a culture of self-directed learning and leadership. The school’s responsive approach caters to individual learning needs and is complemented by a wide range of co-curricular activities, from competitions to public speaking and science symposiums, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Preparing for University and Beyond

The effectiveness of our curriculum is evident in the university destinations of our graduates, which include prestigious institutions like Oxbridge, Ivy League, top Russell Group universities, and Bocconi. This achievement speaks volumes about the quality of education and guidance we receive.

Resources and Facilities

Central to our academic life is the well-equipped library, boasting a vast collection of resources and introducing us to independent research—a critical aspect of our learning that is woven into the curriculum.

In Conclusion

The curriculum at Charterhouse School is characterized by its breadth, academic rigor, and the encouragement of independent learning. It’s designed not merely to prepare us for higher education but to foster a lifelong passion for learning, ensuring we leave as well-rounded individuals ready to contribute meaningously to society.