At Rochester Independent College, the curriculum is tailored to cater to a diverse range of academic interests and abilities, from lower school through to A-level studies. Emphasizing core subjects such as English, Maths, and Science, the curriculum also offers a rich selection of creative and arts subjects, languages, and additional courses to ensure a well-rounded education.

Lower School Curriculum (Years 7-11)

The foundation of the curriculum is built on English, Maths, and Science, with a strong practical emphasis in the sciences. The college encourages students to take Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as separate subjects at IGCSE to prepare for Science A levels. Additionally, there is a significant emphasis on creative arts, including Drama, Music, Media, Photography, Film, Art, and Design to foster creativity and expression. The language offerings comprise German, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, Russian, and French, as well as a Latin club to promote linguistic diversity. Furthermore, additional subjects such as Electronics, Food Technology, Business Studies and Economics, ICT, Philosophy, RE, Environmental Science, and Art History supplement the curriculum, providing students with opportunities to explore new areas of interest. The Community Learning Programme focuses on experiential learning activities centered on community, creativity, collaboration, and character, with a central theme of environmental issues, reflecting the college’s commitment to responsible and creative technology use.

A Level and GCSE Curriculum

Rochester Independent College primarily offers A Level, GCSE, and iGCSE examinations, allowing flexibility in course length and subject choices, enabling students to follow personalized programs and take exams when ready. The curriculum offers a wide range of A level subjects, including Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, English Literature, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, and more, ensuring that students can pursue their interests and prepare for future academic and career goals. In addition, the GCSE curriculum covers subjects like Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Drama, Economics, English Language and Literature, Geography, History, Mathematics, Music, Physics, and additional subjects, providing a solid foundation for further study.

Educational Philosophy and Environment

With an average class size of 8 and a maximum of 12, Rochester Independent College provides personalized attention and discussion-based learning, promoting a close-knit community where students and teachers are on first-name terms. The college combines academic rigor with a creative atmosphere, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and independence, aimed at preparing students not only with excellent examination results but also with enthusiasm for the future and new confidence in themselves and their education.

In summary, Rochester Independent College’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a diverse student body, offering a blend of traditional academic subjects, creative arts, and modern languages within a flexible and supportive learning environment.