The Westgate School uniform: approved suppliers, affordability support, and equality-focused guidelines for parents and pupils. School Uniform School Uniform At The Westgate School, we pride ourselves in a strong sense of community in which all pupils have a sense of belonging. Our uniform is a fundamental part of this ethos: it represents the principle that every pupil matters equally, and nobody is privileged above another. Our expectations and aspirations of every pupil is high, and we expect that pupils will treat one another with respect, kindness, equality and dignity. School uniform is symbolic of this belief.  Adults in school are also required to follow a dress-code that is fit for purpose in our school. Our uniform policy on our policy page Uniform guide for parents - including examples of appropriate shoes Purchasing uniform You can purchase all of the uniform from the following suppliers: Skoolkit Stitch a logo Parents can purchase school uniform from either of our two suppliers (necessary for standard items) as well as through our PSA. Some of our suppliers offer purchasing schemes and significant discounts on specified items for pupils who are in receipt of Free School Meals. The school also has a hardship fund to support families where finances may be stretched - please contact the school office if you would like to discuss the possibility of support. Items of uniform which are generic can of course be purchased from high street stores or online: we do however ask that parents ensure their child's clothing is consistent with the expectations set out in the uniform specification. The school is committed to providing at least two suppliers of specified items and will on an annual basis, review costs to ensure that best value is achieved and that a range of suppliers have been explored. The PSA runs a uniform shop from which parents can purchase good quality, second-hand uniform. Please contact the school office for further details or visit the PSA website . Expectations The Westgate School is proud of its pupils and believes that the uniform should reflect the high standards of our learning community. Consequently, all pupils attending The Westgate School are required to wear the correct uniform (including to and from school) without exception or negotiation. Variations We are proud of our supportive culture that enables us to work in partnership with pupils and parents/carers in order to consider individual needs. If you would like to discuss this, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Year Leader. The principles underpinning our uniform mean that we do not allow pupils to display extremes of fashion (e.g. “saggy trousers”). Extreme hair colour is any colour that is not a person’s natural hair colour; haircuts below grade 2, patterns cut into the hairstyle are not permitted at any time. Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

The ACE Programme develops academic excellence through enrichment activities, workshops and independent projects with Winchester partners. Aspiration, Challenge, & Excellence (ACE) Programme The ACE programme is an extra-curricular, scholarly, academic programme available to all pupils. Pupils can be nominated by a colleague or self-nominate with recommendations/support from a colleague. It gives pupils the opportunity to demonstrate academic exceptionality and explore interests outside of the curriculum or go deeper/further for aspects within the curriculum. We work in partnership with Winchester College and Winchester University in offering enrichment workshops and opportunities. As part of the programme, pupils will complete a detailed self-reflection around their strengths, weaknesses, and academic/career interests (Aspirations). They will then undertake a series of workshops, competitions, and activities which explore academic opportunities and encourage pupils to move outside of their comfort zone (Challenge). Finally, pupils unify their learning from the programme to produce a ‘Work of Excellence’ on a topic of their choosing. The programme is designed to develop confidence, self-reflection, enthusiasm and inspiration towards pupils’ academic studies beyond the specified curriculum. If your child would like to get involved in the ACE programme, they can ask for further information from their tutor. Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

The Westgate School Army Cadet Detachment launches in September 2026, offering weekly training, leadership skills, confidence building and weekend camps. Army Cadet Detachment From September 2026, The Westgate School will be opening its own Army Cadet Detachment. This will operate as an after-school club every Wednesday, offering pupils an exciting opportunity to develop new skills, build confidence, and take part in a nationally recognised youth programme. As part of the detachment, cadets will also have the chance to attend regular weekend camps throughout the year. These will be run in partnership with other detachments from our Company (Minden) and with additional Companies across the South of England, giving our pupils the opportunity to form friendships, develop teamwork, and experience a wide range of outdoor and adventurous activities. If you are part of our school and are interested in joining the our cadet detachment please click on the link here to take you to the ACF page, add your postcode and submit an expression of interest. Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

Helpful information, guidance and useful resources to support your child’s learning, wellbeing and experience at The Westgate School. Parent Information Children & Smartphone Resources Screen time tips Bullying Grooming Isolation and loneliness Family digital detox Sleep and mental health issues A health briefing on the evidenced risks of smart devices and social media in school-age children: summary Source: healthprofessionalsforsaferscreens.org Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

Find guidance for submitting an authorised absence request at The Westgate School, including how to apply, what qualifies, and key information for parents. Authorised Absence Request Authorised Absence Request Children have 13 weeks annual holiday from school and school holiday dates are published well in advance online. As such, all parents/carers are expected wherever possible to plan and take their family holidays at this time so as not to disrupt their children’s education. Education law states that parents do not have a right to take their child out of school for a holiday during term time. Only in exceptional circumstances may a headteacher grant permission for leave; and it is the headteacher’s decision on whether the absence is exceptional and how many days to approve. If you would like to apply for an authorised absence, please browse to the contact form via this link and select 'authorised absence request' where you will be able to complete an online request form. Parents/carers who take their child out of school without the absence being agreed and authorised by written permission from the school can be issued with a penalty fine. Information on Penalty Notices for non-attendance at school Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

School teaching hours at The Westgate (Winchester School Teaching Hours School Teaching Hours Primary Primary School - 38 hours & 20 minutes per week Arrival/Beginning of School Day 8.40am - 8.50am (Registration at 8.50am) Session 1 9.00am - 10.30am Break of 20 minutes (staggered times) 10.30am - 11.00am Session 2 11.00am - 12.00pm Lunch 12.00pm - 1.00pm Session 3 1.00pm - 2.00pm Break 2.00pm - 2.20pm Session 4 2.20pm - 3.05pm Assembly 3.05pm - 3.20pm 3.20pm End of the School Day Session times may be subject to change School Teaching Hours Secondary Secondary Phase - 37 hours & 55 minutes per week Start of the school day 8.30am Break 10.55 - 11.15am Lunch Break 1.15 - 1.50pm Break n/a End of school day 3.05pm Session times may be subject to change Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

The Westgate School’s Parent & Staff Association builds community through events, fundraising and volunteering, and discover ways parents can get involved. Parent & Staff Association (PSA) Welcome to the Westgate School Parent & Staff Association (PSA) The PSA is a community of parents and school colleagues who meet informally to raise funds for pupil well-being across The Westgate School. As well as fundraising, we plan events to bring our Westgate community together. These include Summer and Christmas fairs, discos, quiz nights, and more! We also run a popular second-hand uniform shop for both upper and lower school uniform. In the last year we have raised nearly £25,000 to support our mission “to advance the education of the pupils of the school”. In the past funds have been spent on three new gazebos, replacement football goal posts, school hall acoustic improvements, the cathedral carol concert, prefect ties, the grand piano in the Upper School Hall, musical instruments and a canopy to shield pupils in the lunch queue from the elements. Can you help to make it happen? We promise this doesn't have to take loads of your time - just as much as you're willing to give. And it's a great way to meet new parents and hear what's happening across the school. The Pre-Loved Uniform Shop has moved. You can now find it located in a storage container outside the Primary Phase on Green Lane. Opening hours vary but it is usually open for special events such as the Summer Fair and taster days. Contact us at comms@westgateschoolpsa.org.uk Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

Explore careers education and guidance at Westgate School, helping pupils plan their future with advice, resources, and support for life beyond school. Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance Our Careers Education Intent To excite and motivate pupils’ curiosity about different careers and industries; To inspire pupils’ aspirations in order to unlock their potential and develop their employability skills; To empower pupils to challenge stereotyping and discrimination and other barriers to diversity and equality in further education and careers. Careers Lead: Mr Hurley, Assistant Headteacher Contact Information, select the 'careers option' via our contact form on the contact page. Statutory Requirements & Provider Access Policy The careers provision at The Westgate School is in line with the statutory guidance developed by the Department of Education, which refers to Section 42A and 45A of the Education Act 1997: as a school we provide independent careers guidance from Year 7 to Year 11. This guidance is impartial and gives information on a range of pathways and post-16 education providers, including university options, apprenticeships and further education. It is adapted to meet the needs and interests of the individual pupils. Provider Access Legislation Statement Information for parents/carers: Curriculum Overview Post 16 Information Evening presentation Careers Education Policy - Located on our policy page Partners in Learning: Apprenticeships (for Year 9 and 10) Year 10 Work Experience Launch Our Careers Education Intent is evaluated annually against the Gatsby Benchmarks, and our documents and policies are evaluated and updated annually. Our Careers Education Impact: Our most recent Gatsby Benchmark evaluation NEET Data: average 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 View Survey 2023 View Survey 2024 View Survey 2025 View Survey Hampshire RPA Percentage 94.7% 96.0% 96.0% 94.0% 94.9% 94.3% 94.5% 99.2% 92.9% 92.8% 93.6% Westgate cohort 206 231 233 240 232 239 239 237 246 RPA met 239 227 231 237 236 241 Westgate RPA %age 98.4% 97.6% 100.0% 96.9% 99.6% 97.8% 96.7% 99.2% 99.2% 98.0% 99.2% Sixth Form College/School 81.1% 85.7% 87.1% 86.7% 201 206 205 215 208 FE College 16.5% 13.9% 9.4% 11.3% 22 25 29 17 26 Other Ed inc. Traineeship 0.0% 0.4% 0.4% 1,7% 0 0 0 0 0 Information for pupils: We hope you like the look of our Careers programme for this year and value the range of experiences which have been planned to support you as you explore and discover a variety of careers. Useful Links Useful information Local colleges Andover College Barton Peveril BCOT Eastleigh College Peter Symonds College Sparsholt College Careers guidance and support Your step-by-step guide to applying for an apprenticeship A Guide to Career Options 2023 / 2024 | Rate My Apprenticeship Get the Jump: explore your education and training choices | National Careers Service Apprenticeship.org T Levels Open Events Encounters with Further and Higher Education Andover College To apply to Andover College visit the Andover College website or use Apply - Full Time and Part Time courses - Andover College | Hampshire Sparsholt College To apply to Sparsholt College visit the Sparsholt website or use How to Apply - Sparsholt College and University Centre Sparsholt. Our Digital Handout which can be used in school or sent digitally to Year 11s and their parents/carers. Information can be accessed by clicking on anything of interest. The Digital Handout includes links to a presentation with voiceover and other useful online information. Digital Handout BCOT – Basingstoke College of Technology Basingstoke College of Technology (bcot.ac.uk) Peter Symonds College Peter Symonds College / Open Evenings Winchester College 6th Form Winchester College | Sixth Form Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Home - Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Eastleigh College Eastleigh.ac.uk The Southampton Engineering Training Association (SETA) Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Discover the diverse range of subjects offered at The Westgate School, designed to inspire and challenge students across all key stages. Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Curriculum Subjects Find out more about our range of subjects from Early Years to Year 11. Some subjects are only taught for specfic year groups. You can filter these out by selecting your child's year group below. EYFS | KS1 KS2 Y07 Y08 Y09 Y10 Y11 Art | Fine Art Astronomy Computing | Computer Science Design Technology Drama English Food Preparation and Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture - 3D Design Spanish Well-being Curriculum Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Discover The Westgate School's diverse clubs, wraparound care, and holiday activities for all pupils. Engaging programs before, during, and after school Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs We are very excited to be able to offer a large variety of extra-curricular activities. There are clubs available for all pupils, but please be aware that some clubs specify which year groups are able to attend. Most clubs currently run both before and after school and some during break times. You will also find details for wraparound care, our before and after school childcare for primary school aged pupils. We will also list holiday clubs when available. Please note some clubs are offered by teaching staff and that others are organised through outside agencies and there may be costs involved - please contact the organisers for information. We aim to offer as broad a range of clubs as possible however, these may change on a termly basis, depending on staffing and availability of facilities. Please use the contact details available on the club pages for details. Note that internal led clubs are usually bookable by EduLink . Filter by Tags Community Lettings Holiday Clubs Wraparound Care Y01 Y02 Y03 Y04 Y05 Y06 Y07 Y08 Y09 Y10 Y11 YR Art - Flying Colours Year R - 6 Art Club Year 7 - 8 Badminton Club Year 7 - 11 Barracudas 4½ to 14 Basketball Year 7 - 11 Basketball & Netball Year 3 - 6 Brass Group Year 7 - 11 Community Lettings NA Computing Club Year 7 - 11 Concert Band Year 7 - 11 Creative Writing Club Year 7 - 11 Curriculum Group Year 7 - 11 Dance Starz Year R - 11 Debate Club Year 7 - 11 Digital Leaders Year 9 - 11 Drama Clubs Year 7 Duke of Edinburgh Award Year 10 Feeba Football - Girls Football Year 1 - 6 Fencing Year 3 - 5 Flute and Clarinet Ensemble Year 7 - 11 Folk Group Year 7 - 8 Football Year 7 - 11 Gymnastics Year 7 - 11 Health & Fitness (morning) Year 7 - 11 Home Learning Club Year 7 - 11 Integr8 Dance Year R - 6 Italian for Holidays 11-16 Jazz Ensemble Year 7 - 11 Junior Orchestra Year 7 - 11 Keyboard Club Year 7 - 9 Multi Skills Year 1 - 6 Music Circle Year 7 - 11 Music Clubs Timetable for Summer Term 2026 Year 7 - 11 Music Theory Year 9 - 11 Netball Year 7 - 11 Orchestra (Lower School) Year 1 - 6 Performing Arts Year R - 6 Photography Masterclass Year 7 - 11 Recorder Group Year 7 Relax Kids Year R - 4 Rock Choir Year 7 - 11 Rugby - Boys Year 7 - 11 STEM Club For all pupils Saints Football Year 1 - 6 Samba Band Year 7 - 11 School 'Vox' Choir Year 7 - 11 Sci-Fi & Fantasy Club Year 7 - 11 Senior Orchestra Year 7 - 11 Sportskool 5 and 13 years Squash Year R - 6 String ensemble Year 7 - 11 Table Tennis Year 7 - 11 Tennis Year 2 - 6 The Gate Newsletter Year 7 -11 USKO Karate South Year 1 - 6 Volleyball Year 9 - 10 Wraparound Year R - 6 Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings

Go Art | Fine Art Art is not what you see but what you make others see Go Our Art curriculum intends to: Develop intuition, reasoning, imagination, and dexterity into an unique form of expression and communication. Develop an appreciation of the aesthetic nature of the world around us. Critically evaluate the way cultures are represented through their arts and celebrate diversity. Why Learn Art? Art is a vibrant and dynamic subject that offers pupils the freedom to learn in ways that inspire and bring out the best in their skills and knowledge. Art embodies some of the highest forms of human creativity. A high-quality art education will engage, inspire and challenge pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. Pupils will learn how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation. Our pupils will build theoretical knowledge of the concept of art itself, as well as acquire disciplinary knowledge and appreciation of the techniques of artists and craft-makers. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Overview of the course: It is important for children to engage with the Arts regularly and to explore a range of media and materials. This interaction will help them work towards early learning goals. We recognise this need and therefore we integrate Art into our learning of topics in EYFS and KS1. Key stage 1 Our pupils are taught: to use a range of materials creatively to design and make products. to use drawing, painting and sculpture to develop and share their ideas, experiences and imagination. to develop a wide range of art and design techniques in using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space. about the work of a range of artists, craft-makers and designers, describing the differences and similarities between different practices and disciplines, and making links to their own work. Overview of the course: We integrate Art into our learning of topics from Year 4. In Year 6 we deliver Art as as discrete subject taught be a subject specialist. Key stage 2 Our pupils are taught to develop their techniques, including their control and their use of materials, with creativity, experimentation and an increasing awareness of different kinds of art, craft and design. Specifically we cover how: to create sketch books to record their observations and use them to review and revisit ideas. to improve their mastery of art and design techniques, including drawing, painting and sculpture with a range of materials [for example, pencil, charcoal, paint, clay]. about great artists, architects and designers in history. Course skills: In Year 7 pupils will be introduced to a broad range of new techniques, materials, artists and themes. These experiences will set the foundations for developing as an effective artist and creative thinker. In Year 8 pupils will build on the skills, techniques, knowledge and understanding introduced to them in Year 7. They will be encouraged to show refinement within their work and challenge themselves in a creative way. Pupils will work through three different projects per year, engaging in practical tasks, discussion, group work and home learning projects. Each termly project is designed to help pupils understand the art they see around them and why art is so important within the world and in recording historical events in a visual way. Each project is designed to cover practical skills, knowledge and understanding, and creative thinking. Pupils will experiment with both 2D and 3D media and explore techniques including painting, printing, collage, and sculpture. Drawing is seen as a fundamental art skill, which is encouraged and developed across all year groups. In Year 7 pupils begin to develop a more realistic style of drawing and are taught the importance of keen observation, accurate line and use of tone. This is continued throughout Year 8 and onto GCSE level. Knowledge & Understanding: How ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed in images, artefacts, and products. A range of art, craft, and design processes in two and/or three-dimensions and traditional and new media and technologies how images, artefacts and products relate to social, historical, vocational and cultural contexts. A variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary and historical artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and their contribution to continuity and change in society. A working vocabulary and knowledge of specialist terms relevant to Fine Art. Course content: During Year 9 pupils will develop their painting and drawing skills and explore printmaking. These foundation skills will help pupils in preparation for the full GCSE course which begins in Year 10. Course skills: Pupils will be expected to demonstrate skills and techniques in the context of their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. Making appropriate use of colour, line, tone, texture, shape and form Using different approaches to recording images,such as, observation, analysis, expression and imagination. Showing in their work an understanding of the conventions of representational and abstract/ non-representational imagery and genres. Investigating different ways of working,as appropriate to their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. Providing evidence of an understanding of spatial qualities, composition, rhythm, scale and structure. Knowledge & Understanding: Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of: How ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed in images, artefacts and products in their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. A range of art, craft and design processes in two and/or three-dimensions, traditional, new media and technologies. How images, artefacts and products relate to their social,historical, vocational and cultural contexts. A variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary and historical artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and their contribution to continuity and change in society in their chosen areas(s) of learning within Fine Art. A working vocabulary and knowledge of specialist terms relevant to their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. GCSE Fine Art Course skills: Pupils will be expected to demonstrate skills and techniques in the context of their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. Make appropriate use of colour, line, tone, texture, shape and form. Use different approaches to recording images, such as, observation, analysis, expression and imagination. Show in their work an understanding of the conventions of representational and abstract/ non-representational imagery and genres. Investigate different ways of working, as appropriate to their chosen area(s) of learning. Provide evidence of an understanding of spatial qualities, composition, rhythm, scale and structure. Knowledge and Understanding: Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of: how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed in images, artefacts and products in their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. a range of art, craft and design processes in two and/or three-dimensions, traditional, new media and technologies. how images, artefacts and products relate to their social, historical, vocational and cultural contexts. a variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary and historical artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and their contribution to continuity and change in society in their chosen areas(s) of learning within Fine Art. a working vocabulary and knowledge of specialist terms relevant to their chosen area(s) of learning within Fine Art. Home Learning: Pupils will be set 1 hour of Home Learning per week. Exam Board: AQA – 8202 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Find out more about The Westgate School's choices and options process for parents of pupils in year 9 to year 11 Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choosing options is an exciting process, though a little daunting. This page provides an overview to our curriculum for the remaining three years of your child’s time with us. Firstly, you should be aware that pupils do not have a completely free choice! It is the school’s expectation that every young person will engage with the full range of curriculum entitlement that includes Foreign Languages as part of our core provision through to GCSE summative assessment. Only in very exceptional circumstances are pupils able to reduce the number of subjects for which they are entered which include: long term absence, specific learning needs or low attendance owing to medical reasons; a pupil who has joined the school under Fair Access arrangements for whom the full range of GCSEs may not be appropriate, or a pupil who is in receipt of support from Children’s Services for whom the full range of subjects would be an unreasonable expectation or a child that is on reduced/alternative provision as agreed by the Inclusion Support Services (Hampshire County Council). Curriculum Choices and GCSE Options Throughout Years 9 to 11, pupils will continue to study the core subjects of English, Maths and Science and from Year 10 their learning will focus on the GCSE syllabi and a choice of either Double or Triple Science. Pupils will take GCSE English Language and Literature in our school as part of their core provision. Pupils must take part in core PE and the majority of pupils will continue to study a language. Beyond these compulsory aspects, pupils can then express a preference of subjects they would like to study to GCSE, timetable permitting. It is important that pupils make informed decisions and so our option process gives plenty of opportunities for parents/carers to meet with colleagues and reflect on the options available. Our core provision is designed to enable pupils to undertake post-16 opportunities, subject to achieving the minimum grade entry requirements as specified by those providers.   Year 9 Choices The Year 9 curriculum is characterised by broader opportunities for pupils to experience new subjects such as Photography and Media Studies as discrete subjects. Meanwhile, all pupils will continue their learning in Core Computing, PE, Religious Education and at least one other Humanities subject such as History or Geography to ensure a broad and balanced curriculum is experienced. They will then express a preference for a further two subjects. The school takes a varied approach to the organisation of teaching groups to ensure that the challenges of learning in different disciplines are effectively met.   Year 10 GCSE Options By the end of Year 9, pupils will have a second opportunity to focus their learning as they express their preference of subjects for examination entry. In addition to the core provision, they will choose three options to take to GCSE. We expect most pupils to continue with a Humanity subject because alongside a range of other subject disciplines, qualifications in these disciplines are a sound foundation for post-16 learning. Additionally, pupils may wish to continue with a second language course. Where pupils have particular interests in music or sport for example, the school provides ample opportunities for them to pursue their interests even if not taken as an examination subject. We actively promote pupils exploring extra-curricular opportunities throughout their study at The Westgate School. Our overriding aim is to ensure that as many pupils as possible are able to study their preferred subjects in Year 9 and 10. However, this is not always possible to achieve due to the availability of colleagues, resources, and the need to ensure the viability of group sizes. In the event of a subject being oversubscribed, pupils will be randomly selected using a digital randomiser for first refusal to ensure a fair and transparent approach. Our phased approach to curriculum preferences means that it’s rarely the case that pupils wish to change their curriculum preference. Whenever possible, this will be considered but is unlikely to viable as it is subject to availability of space in that new subject. It’s equally important to establish consistency within a subject class, and therefore changes will only be considered in the first 4 weeks from the start of the academic year and only with a clear, sound academic rationale. Changes outside of this period will only be considered on an exceptional basis. Pupils will not be permitted to change their classes or subjects based on friendship requests. Curriculum structure across the 5 years The Foundation Choices All pupils study English, Maths, Science, core PE and Personal Development. These subjects take up 14 out of a pupil’s 25 lessons each week. Option subjects take up the remaining 11 lessons. They take 6 foundation courses in Year 9 (including a language and RE) and then refine this down to 3 options (4 if no language taken) in Year 10. These are the Foundation subject we offer for Year 9 and GCSE: Astronomy explores the Earth–Moon–Sun system, the solar system, stars, galaxies and the wider universe, focusing on how we observe and understand cosmic phenomena. It develops scientific skills through practical observations, calculations, and the use of real astronomical data. Fine Art is a vibrant and dynamic subject that offers pupils the freedom to learn in ways that inspire and bring out the best in of their skills and knowledge. Computer Science has real relevance in our modern world. The course will give an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and what goes on “behind the scenes”. Design & Technology covers core technical, designing and making principles, including a broad range of design and modelling processes, techniques and use of equipment to realise ideas. Food Preparation & Nutrition provides an opportunity for pupils to prepare a wide variety of different dishes. Pupils investigate the functions of different ingredients as well as understand the foods that contribute to a healthy diet. Drama allows pupils to develop performance skills or design skills including set design and sound. Pupils will gain confidence and experience they need for the future. Geography gives pupils the opportunity to learn about both natural and social sciences. We will consider how geography impacts everyday life, the key opportunities and challenges facing the world. History will help pupils understand past events and people. We believe that as a society there is importance of not just learning history but learning from history. Latin (within the English curriculum in Year 9, a separate subject from Year 10) provides a foundation in linguistic and cultural competence, enabling pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of the Roman world through reading and responding to its language and literature. Modern Languages (French, German and Spanish) will help pupils develop their ability to write and speak in the language and to understand the language when it is written or spoken. Media - each time we watch television, read a newspaper or access the internet, we are exposed to the power of the Media. This dynamic and exciting subject provides pupils with an excellent tool to navigate and analyse the world we live in. Music is constantly evolving, inspiring creativity and expression in a way that no other subject can. Our course offers pupils the chance to study a wide range of musical genres, with more opportunities for practical learning. Photography will enable pupils to consider how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed and interpreted in images. Pupils will develop a knowledge and understanding of photography and cameras. Physical Education is a combination of practical and theory work that builds pupils understanding of anatomy and physiology and the social aspects of sport. Pupils will need to competent in three different sports. Religious Education course involves the learning about two major world religions, Christianity and Islam and looks at their beliefs and practices, their customs and traditions, their festivals and holy days. We also learn different ethical perspectives. Sculpture - pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed in images, artefacts and products in their chosen area(s) of learning. Things to consider What subjects do they enjoy? Only your child knows the answer to this. If they like a subject, they will not mind working hard at it. Hard work is essential whatever they choose, but enjoyment makes the work easier. What subjects are they good at? As well as talking about this with your child, you should use the advice of their teachers and Form Tutor. How do they enjoy working? Some subjects will require them to do a lot of coursework. Others will be assessed mainly by exam. Consider together about which way of working they prefer. What do they want to do when they leave school? They may already know exactly what career you wish to follow. If so, they could choose the subjects which may be needed as qualifications. Most Year 9 pupils have no settled ideas of what they would like to do after leaving school. If this is true for your child, then help them choose a balanced set of courses which will leave them with plenty of possible careers to choose from later on. The options timeline There will be time for both pupils and parents to meet with subject teachers and senior colleagues in school and to take on board careers advice from a qualified advisor. Please take note of all the key dates. Autumn Term Partners in Learning events and Tutors start talking about options and pupils consider the impact of their choices Thursday 5 th March The Careers Fair runs from 4.30 pm to 7.30pm At 4:30 we will have school stalls so that you can speak with teachers about the school courses. Additionally, from 5:30 we will have colleges, career guidance and businesses in school for pupils to meet with and discuss possibilities. Thursday 12 th March Year 9 Parents’ Evening You can then speak with teachers about your child’s preferences. It may be useful for you to prioritise booking the preferred option teachers for this evening rather than English, Maths and Science. Friday 20 th March Year 9 Option forms must be completed online Thursday 23 rd April Year 8 Parents’ Evening You can then speak with teachers about your child’s preferences. It may be useful for you to prioritise booking the preferred option teachers for this evening rather than English, Maths and Science. Friday 24 th April Year 8 Choices forms must be completed online Further information about the courses There is a detailed Curriculum booklet that can be downloaded from our website which has the information about the different GCSEs. This can be found at: Curriculum Subjects There will be plenty of opportunity for both pupils and parents/carers to consider the optimum choices. We encourage you all to make maximum use of the information available, and the opportunities on offer, to engage with subject teachers and other professionals in school throughout the options process. Please do ask for further assistance or advice should you require it. Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum