Programmes

Primary School at Ratcliffe College

Younger pupils follow an integrated curriculum covering English, mathematics, science, religious education, art and design, geography, history, computing, and several other subjects. Specialist teaching extends to areas like music, French and Spanish, Latin, drama, PE, and games.

The transition from primary to secondary receives particular focus here. Year 6 students, for instance, have a third of their subjects taught by specialists from the senior school, which helps them adjust more smoothly when they move up.

Secondary Education

At Ratcliffe College, secondary studies center on personalized learning paths and subject variety. Within Key Stage 4, students pursue individual routes aligned with their interests. While a two-year pathway exists, the three-year GCSE program allows deeper exploration and more thorough exam preparation across over 25 subjects. Core studies include English language and literature, mathematics, religious studies, sciences, alongside required social education (PSHCE) and sports.

Additional Subjects

Beyond core requirements, the curriculum offers extensive electives. Creative options include art, craft and design, photography, drama, and music. Those drawn to technology can choose computer science, design and technology, or media studies. Humanities span geography and history, while physical wellbeing is addressed through academic PE and a cookery and nutrition course.

Modern foreign languages available are French, German, Spanish, Russian, Cantonese and Mandarin Chinese, plus Latin.

Senior Programs

Ratcliffe College provides diverse pathways for 16-18 year-olds. Students begin with four A-Level subjects before continuing with three. Options span sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), quantitative disciplines (mathematics, further mathematics, computer science), humanities and social sciences (history, geography, economics, politics, psychology, religion, philosophy and ethics).

Modern and classical languages (French, German, Spanish, Latin), various creative fields (art and design, drama and theatre, media studies, music), and applied subjects like physical education, design and technology, plus food science are also offered.

Additionally, BTEC Level 3 in Sport is available, while those seeking deeper subject engagement can pursue the EPQ program.

Teaching Approach

Ratcliffe College distinguishes itself through an innovative methodology that encourages active learning and student independence. Academic rigor combines with small class sizes—GCSE groups average 14 students—which allows teachers to give each learner focused attention and support as they develop their skills.