Programs

Middle School

Minerva’s Virtual Academy welcomes students from Year 7 (ages 11-13), where they encounter core disciplines while developing independent learning skills. The Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum forms their foundation in English, mathematics, and science, supplemented by digital literacy, a choice of foreign languages (French, Spanish, or German), history, and broader cultural studies. Through the unique Carousel system, learners can explore art and design, classical civilization, and computer science without committing to year-long courses.

Year 9 serves as a bridge toward examination programs. Students select five core subjects alongside up to four electives that help shape their academic trajectory. The curriculum expands to include biology, chemistry, and physics as separate disciplines, with optional courses in music, geography, and computer science.

GCSE at Minerva’s Virtual Academy

During Years 10-11, the Academy prepares students for IGCSE examinations following Pearson Edexcel specifications. Remote Invigilation allows them to complete assessments from home, which suits families abroad or those who relocate frequently. The program builds on essential subjects—English, mathematics, and sciences (with varying depth options)—complemented by a wellbeing course. Beyond these, students choose from over 20 disciplines:

• Business
• Economics
• English Literature
• Classical Civilization (from September 2025)
• Latin (from September 2025)
• History
• Geography
• Religious Studies
• French, German, Spanish
• Further Mathematics
• Global Citizenship
• Computer Science
• Art and Design
• Music
• Psychology

A-Level and Career Guidance

Sixth Form at Minerva’s Virtual Academy spans Years 12-13 (ages 16-18) and requires five GCSE passes at grade 5 or above, including English and mathematics. Most A-Level subjects expect a grade 6 in the corresponding GCSE, though the Academy reviews applications individually. Students select from 14 disciplines spanning traditional sciences—biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics—alongside humanities and social sciences:

• Business
• Computer Science
• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Psychology
• Religious Studies with Ethics and Philosophy
• Spanish

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) teaches independent research methodology, while the Careers & Futures program guides all sixth-formers through university selection, admission requirements, and application strategy.

Flexible Learning Format

Minerva’s Virtual Academy employs a flipped learning model where students first engage with material on the platform at their own pace, then explore complex concepts during live sessions with teachers. Daily schedules feature 2-3 online classes for questions, discussion, and group work, letting students balance academics with sports, creative pursuits, or family travel.

Each student works with a personal tutor who monitors progress and provides support when challenges arise. The Academy’s community draws learners from 50+ countries who participate in interest-based clubs, collaborative projects, and even school trips despite the virtual setting.