Curriculum

Felsted School’s Academic Journey

Felsted School stands as a beacon of comprehensive education, catering to a diverse student body with varying interests and abilities, across its Preparatory School, Senior School, and Sixth Form. The academic fabric of the school is woven with the intent of molding students into well-rounded individuals, ready to face the challenges of the future.

Preparatory School Curriculum

In the early years of education at Felsted, students engage deeply with foundational subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside Spanish, History, Geography, and Theology, Ethics, and Philosophy (TEP). The curriculum is enriched with STEAM disciplines to foster a balanced development of core skills, emphasizing the importance of literacy and language. The academic landscape extends beyond traditional boundaries through enrichment opportunities, allowing students to delve into their interests while enhancing creativity and digital skills. Academic scholarships and extension activities offer platforms for pupils in Years 5 to 8 to broaden their academic horizons, preparing them for the challenges ahead.

Senior School Curriculum (Years 9 & GCSE)

Transitioning into Year 9, students explore an expansive range of up to eighteen subjects over a two-week timetable, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. The curriculum for Years 10 and 11 narrows down to a core of English, Maths, and Science, supplemented by four optional subjects to maintain a well-rounded academic program. The flexibility extends to the choice between separate and combined sciences, a modern foreign language, and a humanities subject. The curriculum also includes non-examined courses in Physical Education and PSHE, catering to the holistic development of students.

Sixth Form Curriculum

At the Sixth Form level, Felsted School offers paths through either the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or A Levels, accommodating diverse learning preferences. The emphasis on independent learning shines through with the IB’s Extended Essay and the A Level/BTEC’s Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Career and higher education guidance form integral parts of the curriculum, helping students carve out their future paths, be it through university, degree apprenticeships, or direct entry into the workplace.

Academic Overview

Felsted School’s academic ethos is centered around facilitating personal growth among its students. The incorporation of the latest research in teaching and learning, alongside a growth mindset and a Philosophy of Learning, underscores the commitment to student development. The five R’s – readiness, resilience, reflection, resourcefulness, and responsibility – form the core of this philosophy. Individual attention is guaranteed through a dedicated tutor system, supporting More Academically Able (MAA) students and those in need of personalized learning support. The academic results across the board, from English and maths to A Level subjects like economics and the popular IB Diploma, reflect the school’s aptitude in fostering excellence.

Curriculum Design and Progression

The school’s curriculum policy reflects a commitment to offering a broad educational experience, typically encouraging students to undertake nine GCSEs, including options for Triple Science for the more academically inclined. Sixth Form students receive personalized guidance to select the curriculum pathway that best aligns with their abilities and future aspirations. This carefully designed educational pathway introduces students to new subjects and helps them strengthen existing interests, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.

For those interested in a deeper dive into Felsted’s academic offerings, from specific subjects to progression details, the school provides comprehensive curriculum overviews, laying out the pathway to academic and personal growth.