Secondary Education: For children aged 11 - 15 years
As students move into the secondary phase of the Hastings School, the emphasis on high academic standards combined with an enjoyment of learning continues.
There is a strong focus on wellbeing (pastoral care) and making sure that students in our secondary school know who to speak to if they have any concerns. The teenage years can be challenging and it is essential that students feel confident to speak to us if they are worried or having a difficult time. We have a range of staff to offer support, including a full time psychologist.
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Curriculum
Developing minds in our British Secondary School
After completing the Early Years and Primary stages, the pupils of our private secondary school move on to next level. Subjects are taught by specialist, native British teachers in a way that encourages students to think for themselves, solve problems, collaborate with others and gain a deep understanding of the material.
The lessons are varied and include the use of technology where appropriate to help personalise and accelerate learning. There is a strong emphasis on practical activities in numerous subjects: science experiments in specialist laboratories; drama in the theatre; music in the music room; and art in the art studios.
Secondary Students also do:
Two hours of physical activity per week (they can do much more as part of the extra-curricular programme)
A comprehensive personal and social education programme, covering areas such as citizenship, health and wellbeing, digital safety, careers, and study skills.
YEARS 7, 8 & 9 (AGES 11-14)
Secondary subjects
For the first three years of Secondary, students study a large range of subjects to better understand what they enjoy and what they would like to continue studying as they get older.
There is a strong focus on Maths, English and Spanish as well as Science (with lessons in specialist science labs), Computing, PE, History and Geography. In addition they start a third language, French, and take a range of creative subjects: Art; Drama and Music.
YEARS 10 & 11 (ages 14-16)
Preparing for IGCSEs
During these two years, students work towards the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations. These official exams are taken at the end of Year 11.
Subjects are now studied in more depth. Some of them are compulsory and decisions must be made as to which optional subjects to take.
There is a core of compulsory subjects (Maths, English, Spanish and at least one science) but then students have five choices and can shape the curriculum more towards the subjects they love and are good at.
Compulsory Subjects:
A thorough and varied education
Secondary FAQs
Subjects are taught by specialist, native British teachers in a way that encourages students to think for themselves, solve problems, collaborate with others and gain a deep understanding of the material.The lessons are varied and include the use of technology where appropriate to help personalise and accelerate learning. There is a strong emphasis on practical activities in numerous subjects: science experiments in specialist laboratories; drama in the theatre; music in the music room; and art in the art studios. For the first three years of Secondary, students study a large range of subjects to better understand what they enjoy and what they would like to continue studying as they get older. There is a strong focus on Maths, English and Spanish as well as Science (with lessons in specialist science labs), Computing, PE, History and Geography. In addition they start a third language, French, and take a range of creative subjects: Art; Drama and Music.
During two-year cycle (Yr10 and Yr11), students work towards the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations (Cambridge and Edexcel examination boards). These official exams are taken at the end of Year 11.
At Hastings School, we provide a rigorous approach to preparing students for GCSE examinations, with a curriculum that reinforces learning in both practical and theoretical ways. Students have ongoing support from teachers, access to additional resources and targeted preparation sessions to maximise their academic performance.
Our vision and values shape the adults our students will become and the world they will create, fostering wellbeing and support, character development, and a comprehensive pre-university experience through our Nexus programme, which offers both IB and A-levels. With exceptional university counseling, a broad enrichment programme, and a diverse range of trips that extend learning beyond the classroom, we provide a holistic education that prepares students for a successful future.
2 - 5 yrs old
5 - 11 yrs old
11 - 15 yrs old
15 - 18 yrs old