Year 9
Staff across each subject area have worked hard to develop a curriculum that meets the needs of our pupils.
Please click on the links below to get more information as to what pupils will be studying across each curriculum each 1/2 term:
Subject intent
The below highlights the intent behind each subject in Year 9, including the knowledge and skills we aspire for pupils to achieve.
English
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 English curriculum intends to cultivate pupils into curious readers capable of accessing a broad variety of texts and genres from the literary canon. When it comes to writing, pupils will engage in creative expression, confidently employing a range of sentence structures and complex vocabulary. Furthermore, our goal is to empower pupils to become proficient speakers, capable of presenting ideas in a formal context, actively listening to feedback, and asking questions to clarify information—all while using standard English. Through a skills-based curriculum, we aim for pupils to practice speaking and listening with consideration for a specific audience, effectively communicate and formulate their own opinions, and engage in active listening and appropriate responses. Pupils will continue to develop into confident individuals who excel in these language skills.
Maths
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Maths curriculum intends to embed key mathematical skills so that pupils can become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, reason mathematically, and problem solve by applying their skills and knowledge. We intend to expand pupils’ range of mathematical competencies so that they have a greater understanding of Maths in real life. This will in turn give them the skills to develop their confidence to make decisions about their money, time, and freedom as they prepare for adulthood.
Science
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Science curriculum aims to cultivate curiosity and foster an inquisitive mindset about the universe among our pupils. At this stage, there is a fundamental shift from the Science lessons experienced in primary school. Our goal is to encourage pupils to actively participate in a variety of practical work, gradually bridging connections between practical work and theoretical concepts. The lessons are structured around developing scientific inquiry skills, including classifying, comparing and contrasting, predicting, making models, gathering data, measuring, and observing. We intend to build upon and deepen pupils’ scientific knowledge, emphasising their understanding of ideas and concepts developed in the earlier Key Stages, particularly in the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Art
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Art curriculum intends to develop pupils’ critical and analytical abilities whilst giving them the opportunity to express themselves freely. The curriculum intends for pupils to build on prior learning and develop their confidence and knowledge of working with different materials and processes, to analyse their own work and the works of famous artists and designers, both contemporary and historical. This will help them to express their own creativity, ideas and investigations through the medium of art. Pupils will gain perseverance skills from self-analysis helping them to decide if they want to continue their journey into Key Stage 4 Art.
Computing
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Computing curriculum intends to develop key computational thinking concepts, which will allow pupils to design and implement their ideas using digital platforms. We intend to build on their digital literacy so that pupils are able to express themselves and develop their ideas through information and computer technology as active participants in the digital world. This will in turn enable pupils to build on existing knowledge to inform and inspire the next generation of Digital Engineers.
Construction
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Construction curriculum intends to provide pupils with a foundational understanding of various construction disciplines, through short blocks of intense practical learning, pupils will experience a multi-faceted approach to learning construction. Through a structured and engaging programme, it is intended that pupils explore key aspects of construction, including Building Maintenance, Bricklaying, Tiling, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry, and basic Electronics. This curriculum intends to instil a sense of curiosity and competence in construction, preparing pupils for potential future pathways in the Construction industry while promoting a broader understanding of the built environment and its significance in society.
Food Technology
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Food Technology curriculum intends to provide a comprehensive exploration of the food we consume. The curriculum aims to equip all pupils with the understanding and confidence to create their own dishes from scratch. Through hands-on experiences, pupils will explore different textures, flavours and cooking styles. The curriculum aims for pupils to understand the importance of food and its role in improving overall health and wellbeing.
Geography
At NRHS, The Key Stage 3 Geography curriculum intends to inform pupils about the enormity of our world. The curriculum encourages pupils to use maps and atlases so that pupils can develop an understanding of different countries, continents, seas and oceans. Through studying the natural and human environments, as well as physical and human processes, the curriculum aims to provide pupils with a sense of awe and wonder about the world they live in, building a sense of curiosity and asking questions so that they are keen to continue learning about the world in Key Stage 3.
History
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 History curriculum intends to foster a deep understanding of historical events, cultures and individuals, cultivating critical thinking skills among pupils. By exploring diverse perspectives and analysing primary sources, the History curriculum strives to develop a sense of historical empathy. It intends to instil a passion for inquiry, encouraging pupils to question, investigate and draw connections between past and present. The aim is to empower learners with the knowledge and skills necessary for informed citizenship, promoting an appreciation for the complexities and nuances of history.
Horticulture
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Horticulture curriculum intends for pupils to take a journey through the world of horticulture, providing them with the knowledge, skills and understanding of where food comes from and how it is produced. It is intended that pupils will build and deepen their horticultural knowledge. Pupils will be encouraged to explore independent thinking, including understanding eco-systems, biodiversity and permaculture while building their confidence, patience, resilience and mental wellbeing in a safe outdoor space. Pupils will go on to explore the relationships between living things, promoting environmental awareness and future stewardship of the natural environment.
Music
AT NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Music curriculum intends to cultivate pupils’ musical abilities with a particular emphasis on new and innovative technologies alongside traditional instrumentation. By integrating cutting-edge tools and techniques, it is intended that pupils are exposed to a dynamic and modern musical experience and will foster a well-rounded understanding of music, whilst having the independence to explore particular areas of interest. This curriculum intends to inspire creativity, encourage experimentation, and prepare pupils for the diverse landscape of contemporary music, promoting a lifelong appreciation for musical expression.
PSHE
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 PSHE curriculum intends to empower pupils with the knowledge, skills and attribute development to equip them to enjoy healthy relationships and navigate the wider world as happy, healthy and fulfilled teenagers. The curriculum focuses on the use of distanced and experiential learning opportunities to engage pupils and meet age, stage and SEMH needs, whilst developing pupils’ moral compass. Pupils are supported to navigate challenges by responding to spontaneous issues both in our school community and the wider world. The curriculum intends to ensure our pupils practice skills to access reliable information and support services linked to each topic area.
Spanish
At NRHS, the Key Stage 3 Spanish curriculum intends to develop linguistic confidence and cultural awareness, enabling pupils to express themselves creatively and engage in meaningful conversations. Our intent is to instil an appreciation of other cultures, giving them options as they progress towards making decisions about further education and the world of work. At NRHS we aim to foster a lifelong enthusiasm for Spanish because we believe that learning a foreign language broadens pupils’ horizons, particularly in them multi-cultural works in which they live.