Curriculum
Description
Overview of Our Educational Journey
At Dulwich College London, we students find ourselves in an environment that champions both academic excellence and co-curricular vitality. This balanced approach is meticulously designed to prepare us not just for the academic challenges of the 21st century but also to ensure our all-rounded development.
Upper School Focus
As we enter the Upper School in Years 12 and 13, we’re given the freedom to specialize, choosing three A level subjects, with an option for a fourth in Further Mathematics. Unlike Geography and Biology, which pursue the Cambridge Assessment International A level, our options span across various A level courses.
Adding Depth with Electives
To broaden our academic horizons, Year 12 introduces us to Advanced Electives, a cross-institutional initiative alongside James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS) and Sydenham High School. These ten-week courses, free from examinations, inspire us to explore interdisciplinary topics. In Year 13, the Liberal Studies course further diversifies our learning, offering insights into global issues, practical skills, and community service.
Emphasizing Independent Research
The engagement in Liberal Studies and Advanced Electives paves the way for completing an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or a significant internally assessed essay. This cornerstone of the Dulwich Diploma celebrates both our academic commitments and co-curricular achievements, embodying the essence of our education here.
Middle School: Laying the Foundations
As Middle Schoolers in Years 9 to 11, our curriculum broadens. Year 9 serves as a transitional phase with a comprehensive subject offer, including languages. The subsequent years are dedicated to GCSE/IGCSE preparation, granting us the flexibility to pursue a varied yet balanced selection of subjects.
The Lower School Experience
Our journey begins in the Lower School, Years 7 and 8, where the curriculum spans essential subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, along with a choice of languages. This foundational stage introduces us to the broad spectrum of knowledge and learning approaches that Dulwich values.
Junior School: Where Our Exploration Begins
In the Junior School, the adventure into learning embarks with an extensive curriculum covering core subjects, complemented by Philosophy, Dance, and more. Integral to our Junior School experience are the co-curricular clubs and activities, where our passions and interests begin to take shape.
Beyond the Classroom
Our college’s commitment to holistic development is evident in the myriad co-curricular activities available. With over 70 clubs and activities for the Junior School alone and a diverse range of sports and arts opportunities for all, we’re encouraged to pursue our interests and talents beyond the academic sphere.
Conclusion
Dulwich College London offers us a unique educational pathway, characterized by depth through specialized A level studies and breadth via elective courses and expansive co-curricular offerings. The Dulwich Diploma encapsulates our holistic development, positioning us as well-prepared individuals for university and the wider world, embracing the ethos of service and engagement.