At Queen Margaret’s girls study a wide range of subjects. We believe that this breadth of education is essential if wise and informed choices are to be made for GCSEs and beyond. It does mean that the students are very busy and academic organisation is central to success. Tutors help by monitoring the workloads of their tutees and giving advice on organisation.
The following terminology is used throughout the curriculum:
Lower School – Years I, II and III (National Curriculum Years 7, 8 and 9
GCSE Years – Years IV and V (National Curriculum Years 10 and 11)
Sixth Form – LVI and UVI (National Curriculum Years 12 and 13)
Years 7 – 9
In the Lower School girls follow a broad curriculum, which becomes more focused in Year III as they are guided to a balanced range of subjects for GCSE study. Departments do not confine themselves to the content of the National Curriculum but tailor their courses to the needs and abilities of the girls in ways that will stimulate, challenge and excite young minds. In Years I and II girls also participate in a range of co-curricular activities during the last hour of the school day.
Years 10 – 11
During the GCSE years twenty-four subjects are offered. All girls study English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Science (either the double award course or the three separate sciences) and a modern foreign language. In addition, most girls opt to study four other subjects. Once girls have made their GCSE selections, the timetable is developed around their chosen subjects.
Years 12 – 13
In the Sixth Form twenty-seven subjects are offered to AS and A2 level. Guided by their tutors girls select A level subjects and once again a timetable is built around their choices. At AS level most girls opt to study four or five subjects, reducing to three or four at A2 level.
Extension
ICT skills are taught in dedicated lessons at all levels and further developed as appropriate in individual academic subjects. Careers and Higher Education Guidance, Study Skills and Personal, Social and Health Education programmes also form part of the curriculum. Girls are also exposed to current affairs and their general knowledge, problem solving and critical thinking skills are built upon through Academic Extension lessons.
Sport
Participation and excellence in Sport are essential parts of school life. Girls in all years have some form of timetabled physical activity on most days as well as numerous opportunities to represent the school across a range of sports.