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  • English

    English Read like a writer; write like a reader; question like a critic; think like an individual Go Go Our English Curriculum intends to: Instil in pupils a passion for literature and a life-long love of reading. Teach pupils to become critical, analytical and evaluative readers of fiction and non-fiction. Enable pupils to craft language so that they become convincing writers, able to adapt their writing for different audiences and purposes. Ensure that pupils are effective communicators in spoken English. Why learn English? English has a pre-eminent place in education and in society. Our English course will teach pupils to speak and write fluently so they can communicate their ideas and emotions to others, and, through their listening and reading, others can communicate with them. With reading in particular, pupils have a chance to develop culturally, intellectually, emotionally, socially and spiritually. Literature plays a key role in such development. Reading also enables pupils both to acquire knowledge and to build on what they already know. All the skills of language are essential to participating fully as a member of society: pupils who do not learn to speak, read and write fluently and confidently are effectively disenfranchised. The curriculum is taught as an integrated course combining the study of language and literature, which continues in Years 9 -11. Our vision is that from Reception Year onwards, all pupils develop a passion and enthusiasm for English through exploring and appreciating a range of texts, both literary and non-fiction, and learn how to craft language to suit a range of audiences and purposes. The English curriculum is taught as an integrated course. However, pupils will be entered for GCSE English Language and Literature as two discrete qualifications. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Writing For EYFS/Key Stage 1 ‘Read like a writer; write like a reader; question like a critic; think like an individual’ begins with our youngest children, joining us in Reception. Writing begins with meaningful mark making, such as first attempts to write a shopping list, to writing their name. As they settle into Reception, children learn correct letter formation following 'Letter Join' handwriting sequence resources and are encouraged to write purposefully and clearly to express their thoughts, ideas and feelings. Following a rich and diverse text driven curriculum, children are inspired to write and enjoy opportunities for planning, drafting and reviewing. Oracy is a vital part of our Early Years Curriculum, and our children develop confident skills to become assured and articulate speakers. Through circle times and sharing their interests in key person groupings all children are supported to practise and develop formal and informal speaking skills. Children are also taught to understand the benefits of being sensitive, observant and attentive listeners. During Year 1 our carefully planned foundations of learning from EYFS are strengthened and refined. Handwriting skills develop and children are taught to progress letter formation into the beginnings of a cursive script. Children are taught a wide variety of writing skills such as: the art of letter writing, recount and instructional writing. ‘Talk for writing’ creates exciting narratives and figurative poetry. During Year 2 children begin to write more cohesively using a wider range of conjunctions and are expected to write with a greater stamina. Our text driven curriculum is thoughtfully planned to ensure children continue to develop a rich and varied vocabulary and understand that texts are set out in different ways for different purposes. Oracy skills are built upon, and children feel confident challenging each other and putting forward their point of view whilst accepting that others may think differently. Throughout KS1 and in reception, learning is assessed formatively using ‘pink for praise’ and ‘green for growth’ highlighters. Children are clear and confident to articulate what they have done well and what they need to do to improve their writing. Children are also taught how to begin to edit their own writing. Phonics and Reading Schemes For Key Stage 1 Little Wandle Letters and Sounds - Phonics. We use Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised as our phonics and early reading programme. Little Wandle is a complete, systematic synthetic phonics programme and has been designed to ensure that all children become confident, fluent readers who develop a lifelong love of reading. What is phonics? Phonics is the method we use to teach children how to read and write. Children learn that letters represent sounds and are taught how to blend these sounds together to read words and segment them to spell words. Through Little Wandle, children are taught phonics every day in a session lasting 20-30 minutes. Children are taught the five phases of Little Wandle phonics during Reception and Year 1. They are fully supported to learn: new sounds and letter patterns in a clear sequence. how to blend sounds to read words accurately. how to read and spell words with increasing confidence. strategies to develop fluency, comprehension and enjoyment of reading. Reading Books In KS1 your child will bring home three Reading books and three bookmarks: I Read - A fully decodable book to read over the weekend with you. This book matches the phonics they have been taught, has been read by your child 3 times during the week with an adult and is carefully matched to their current reading ability in order to experience success and build confidence. We Read - A sharing book for you to enjoy together at home. This book may be more challenging and is intended to be read and discussed with the support of another person at home. Family Read - A library book, your child has selected with teacher guidance, to share at home with you. In our 3 read approach, children will read the same reading practise book in small groups three times a week in school before bringing it home. Re-reading helps children develop accuracy, fluency and expression, all of which are essential for becoming confident readers. How can you help at home? You can support your child by: Listening to them read regularly. Encouraging them to sound out and blend words using the phonics they have learned. Praising their efforts and celebrating their progress. Reading stories together every day and talking about books. Ensuring reading books and reading records are returned to school as requested. Supporting Parents We recognise that phonics may be taught differently from when many parents and carers were at school. To help you support your child at home, please have a look at the Little Wandle website which gives lots of information and guidance about Little Wandle, including helpful resources and videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation of sounds. www.littlewandle.org.uk/resources/for-parents/ In June of Year 1 children will take part in the National phonics screening check and the application of phonics to reading. Children progress through the five Little Wandle phonics phases into the Year 2 Little Wandle spelling programme. Writing in Key Stage 2 Children continue to follow the ‘Letter join’ handwriting from year 2 programme and handwriting is expected to develop during this Key Stage to form a neat cursive script. Children progress from KS1 phonics into KS2 Spelling Shed resources. Consistent and accurate teaching ensures children’s writing develops with an authorial voice and a mature understanding of sentence structure and its effect on the reader. Stamina increases throughout KS2 and children create cohesive paragraphs in narratives and non-narrative material, whilst maintaining quality. Children are encouraged to read and check their writing for sense, editing for improvement is taught alongside audience awareness. There is a greater level of independence to select and propose changes for appropriate grammar and vocabulary and children are taught to use effective organisational and presentational devices. Challenging texts continue to be chosen carefully to ensure rich vocabulary development and an understanding of how authors write for effect. Writing outcomes are planned carefully using high quality texts to ensure that writing is effective and emotive and covering a range of genres. Older children often support younger children and listen carefully to each other’s ‘masterpieces’. Throughout KS2 writing continues to be assessed formatively using ‘pink for praise’ and ‘green for growth’. Children are clear, confident creative writers and can articulate what they have done well and what they need to do to improve their writing. Year 6 is the final Year of KS2 and we ensure a smooth and supportive transition from KS2 into the beginning of KS3. As part of our middle school model, colleagues from both phases, Primary and Secondary, deliver teaching and learning in our ‘all through’ school. Upper KS2 texts are chosen carefully in consideration of the KS3 English Curriculum and children are well prepared for this next stage of their educational journey. Phonics and Reading in Key Stage 2 Phonics is taught systematically, beginning in reception, using ‘Bug Club’ resources and planning. Whole-class teaching of phonics is supported by additional group and individual provision where required. Daily assessments ensure that children have understood, can remember and can apply their phonics. Teachers are highly skilled confident practitioners: misconceptions are picked up immediately and children make outstanding progress. Common exception words (CEWs) are introduced from the start of Reception. There are a set list of words for each Year group. (please see attachments below) These ‘tricky’ words although taught at school will need to be reinforced at home and children will need to be able to read and spell these words set words correctly, by the end of each Year. Reading Fluency Children follow the Bug Club Reading scheme and after the first half term they are matched to decodable books in order to develop reading fluency. From reception through KS1 children enjoy progressing through these books alongside the phonic sounds taught. In addition to the decodable books, children are allocated a ‘banded book’ that is not fully decodable but is at the correct level for your child. Parents and children are able to access the allocated decodable books on via the ‘e book’ platform on Bug Club. We use a combination of precisely targeted ‘ebooks’ to develop reading fluency and physical books to support all children on their reading for pleasure journey. Children read 1:1 with the class teacher and the Learning Support Assistant in reception. All reading (from Reception to year 6) at home and at school is recorded into a ‘reading record’. Vocabulary development is supported by ‘Drawing Club’ in reception based on a wide variety of rich texts children explore and develop vocabulary through the medium of illustration. Vocabulary is then used in context during the week and children are encouraged to use their vocabulary at home. Children begin guided reading in Year 1 and as confidence in reading fluency improves, children are introduced to reading comprehension skills. Exposure to stories, animated tales and traditional tales is valued highly. Every class will share a story after lunch through our “Westgate Story time” and through Drawing Club. Comprehension Reading and writing are intrinsically linked and from Reception through KS1 children are taught to discuss and sequence a narrative text. This is vital as it supports the ability to recall, retrieve and sequence reading. During KS1 children enjoy ‘book talk’ sessions where carefully chosen texts are used to stimulate rich class discussions, answer age appropriate comprehension questions and discover new vocabulary. Additionally, Guided Reading in small groups ensures children have the opportunity to read and discuss responses orally and in writing to comprehension questions based on: vocabulary, inference, predication, explanation, retrieval and summary. As children move into KS2, children complete ‘reading skill builders’ into reading journals alongside whole class reading. Children are encouraged to be creative and add illustrations and to take pride in their individual Reading Builders. Small group guided reading sessions continue through KS2 with the class teacher, where carefully selected questions for each age group are discussed and debated and cover each reading skill. Primary phase children enjoy support from Secondary Phase pupils and Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh pupils read and discuss: poetry, plays, fiction, and non-fiction with all year groups once a week. Children leave KS2 continuing confidently into their journey of ‘Read like a writer; write like a reader; question like a critic; think like an individual’ Overview of the Course: From the start of Year 7, all pupils are introduced to our core skills – the golden threads - so they are fully embedded by the time the pupils reach KS4. These key skills are taught through a study of novels, plays, poetry and non-fiction or media-based texts. Course Content: Year 7 Year 7 pupils begin the year with the ‘Heroes’ unit which is designed to develop a range of pupils’ inference as well as introduce the skills of analysis and comparison. Writing will involve crafting a persuasive speech to be delivered to the class. Subsequent units include the study of a modern novel; poetry of peace and protest; a creative travel writing unit; a media unit on representation and stereotypes and a Shakespeare play. Year 8 Year 8 has been designed to build on the skills that have been introduced in Year 7. The year begins with a unit on Gothic Literature where pupils analyse 19th century fiction and write an opening to their own Gothic novel. By the end of the year, all pupils will have also studied a dystopian novel to develop creative writing skills; a media-based unit on advertising; a Shakespeare play; poems from other cultures and developed reading skills to explore what life was like in the nineteenth century. The course is planned to provide a range of cultural experiences to widen pupils’ horizons and develop a passion for reading and the study of literature which we hope will stay with them throughout their life. Pupils are encouraged to transfer the reading and writing skills to other curriculum areas and these links are often made explicit in lessons. Course Skills: Reading: skimming, scanning and decoding skills, comprehension and inference, analysis of language and the structure of a text, and evaluation skills are introduced and consolidated over the two years. Writing: both creative and analytical writing skills are taught together with a focus on structure of the text, use of language devices, improving vocabulary and technical accuracy. Spoken language skills are practised through speeches and drama-based activities and debating and other structured talk. Assessment: Pupils will be assessed in every unit and each assessment will focus on a different skill for either reading or writing. All pupils will be fully prepared for the assessments and will practise the skills needed during lessons. The assessments will focus on key skills to provide a strong foundation for all pupils in improving their literacy, analysis or communication skills. To support your child’s learning in English and Media Studies clips will be shown from films such as: 'War Horse' and 'Romeo and Juliet' (Year 7); 'Macbeth' (Year 9); These clips and/or films will be shown in lessons according to our curriculum plans. In alignment with British Board of Film Classification regulations, pupils may be shown clips from films that are slightly above their chronological age (e.g., a film classified as a 12 for pupils in Year 7) where a teacher deems it appropriate for educational reasons. In doing so, adults will ensure that it is appropriate for the learning task and for the children in the class and if there are any scenes that could be upsetting, will advise pupils in advance. If you have any concerns and would like to discuss this in more detail, please do contact Mrs. Griffiths, Faculty Leader for English and MFL, as soon as possible such that we can adjust our plans, and we will be happy to work in partnership with you. English Language and Literature in Year 9 Overview of the Course: Pupils will develop their skills as critical readers of fiction and non-fiction texts and also become writers, adept at crafting language to suit a range of audiences and purposes. They will also become confident speakers able to express their opinion on a range of challenging ideas. Course Content: English language skills are taught in an integrated way, complementing and supporting the English Literature course. Pupils will read a choice of modern fiction, a Shakespeare text, poetry, a range of non-fiction texts including speeches, adverts and autobiographical journals. More confident learners will study Latin as part of their English Curriculum. The addition of Latin provides further enrichment and enhances learners’ understanding of language development, with a view to taking the language onto GCSE if they choose to. Other curriculum opportunities such as participating in a Shakespeare workshop, viewing a production or analysing speeches by famous historical figures and politicians broadens pupils’ cultural experiences further. Course Skills: Reading skills of inference, analysis and evaluation. Writing to persuade and argue and develop a distinctive voice. Writing creative texts including stories and descriptions. Spoken language presentation skills. English Language GCSE and English Literature GCSE The English curriculum is taught as an integrated course. However, pupils will be entered for GCSE English Language and Literature as two discrete qualifications and pupils will be entered for both GCSEs. English Language GCSE: Pupils follow the AQA course for GCSE English Language. Pupils will build on the skills of reading and writing they have been developing throughout their time at The Westgate School, but now it will be much more tailored to the demands of the exam. Pupils will continue to develop as critical readers with a focus on the skills of inference, analysis and evaluation and comparison. They will read a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, both contemporary and from the nineteenth century. Assessment: The English Language GCSE is assessed through two linear exams, both worth 50% of the course: Paper 1 Explorations in creative reading and writing Paper 2 Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives Pupils are given practice GCSE assessments at the end of each unit. English Literature GCSE: Pupils follow the AQA course for GCSE English Literature. They will read a nineteenth century novel, either: ‘The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ by Robert L Stevenson, ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens, or ‘Frankenstein’ by Mary Shelley. They will also study a modern text: either ‘Lord of the Flies’ or ‘An Inspector Calls’ and a range of pre and post 1914 poetry on the theme of Power and Conflict, and ‘Macbeth’. Please note: texts are subject to change according to exam board review. Assessment: The English Literature GCSE is assessed through two linear exams: ‘Shakespeare and the Nineteenth Century text’ worth 40%. ‘Poetry and Modern Texts’ worth 60% of the course. Pupils are given practice GCSE assessments at the end of each unit. Home Learning: Pupils are expected to complete Home Learning every week. Usually this should take one hour. Home Learning will be set as a variety of tasks including reading tasks in preparation for the lesson, language analysis, and the completion of written tasks. Exam Board AQA 8700 - English Language Exam Board AQA 8702 - English Literature 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

  • Senior School Council

    The roles and responsibilities of The Westgate School Senior Council Senior School Council Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) says that children and young people should have a say in decisions that affect their lives. A school council can provide a meaningful way in which pupils can voice their opinions and have their views taken into account in decisions which impact upon them. Senior School Council structure This is a summit, made up of senior school representatives, including the Head Boy and Girl, Head All-Through and Senior Prefects. At the initial meeting each year, the group will establish its aims and the projects they want to work on. They might divide into mini groups to work on particular projects throughout the year. The summit meets the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) on a termly basis to provide an update on the activities of the focus groups, and to submit new proposals. The SLT also uses this as a forum in which to exchange ideas with pupils. Attributes of a member of the Senior School Council 1. Integrity Integrity means honesty and more. It refers to having strong internal guiding principles that one does not compromise. It means treating others as one would wish to be treated. Integrity promotes trust, and little can be achieved without it. 2. Communication Communication in the context of leadership refers to interpersonal communication between the individual and others, both in the team and across the school community. A good leader needs to be proficient in the communication that informs and must actively listen to others. 3. Relationship building Relationships develop good interpersonal and group communications. A leader who likes dealing with people and who can initiate and deepen relationships with others, has a great leadership advantage. This is a leader who can build a team and build up trust within it. 4. Persuasion The ability to influence others and cause them to act in a particular way is a highly important leadership skill. An ability to be persuasive is directly related to how much people trust you and how good your relationship skills and communication are. 5. Adaptability Adaptability and flexibility in not being bound by a plan are important success factors. A leader must move easily from one set of circumstances (the plan) to the next (if the plan is not going as expected) and take them all in their stride, even when the circumstances are unexpected. A good leader has to embrace change and see it as an opportunity. 6. Teamwork Teamwork is an important and often neglected part of being a prefect. Our community has a team of prefects who are part of and leaders within the school. No one person can do it all. That’s why a team, comprised of others with different skill sets, is essential. A leader must know how to build and nurture such a team. 7. Decision-making A leader must be able to wade through information, comprehend what is relevant, make a well-considered decision, and take action based on that decision. Once a team decision has been made, the individual must fully support the group in carrying out the actions related. Role of the Senior School Council · To maintain a positive and productive school atmosphere in which both pupils and colleagues feel included. · To lead aspects of the whole school life so that the community becomes stronger. · To ensure that duties for different teams are carried out correctly. · To work together as a Leadership team. · To mentor younger pupils to build in succession. Focus groups Focus Groups meet on a bi-weekly basis to decide on and organise projects which are relevant to their area of focus. Each group is overseen by a teacher. The pupil voice co-ordinator explains all the ideas that come from the pupils, and the teacher’s role is simply to facilitate. The focus groups are: 1. The Equality and Diversity Group The aim is to ensure everyone in the community is seen and understood. The group works with teachers and pupils to celebrate different cultures in school and raise awareness of the need to work together to make the school more inclusive. Examples of events are: • International Women’s Day • Black History Month • Men’s Mental Health 2. The Charity Group The group meets bi-weekly to fundraise for the charities which are chosen by the members. Some of the events are: • Bake sales, including the annual one for Macmillan • Selling poppies for The Royal British Legion • The annual Christmas appeal, which has a different charity annually 3. The Wellbeing Group In the Wellbeing Group, the aim is to create a positive and enjoyable working environment for both pupils and teachers and support them feeling comfortable and safe at school. As part of its role at the school, the group encourages pupils to join in with different activities. The group does this by organising a variety of events aimed at everyone. For example, in the summer the group runs rounders for our sport-orientated pupils, and for our arty pupils, the group runs colouring and drawing sessions. This helps to promote the school values – Endeavour and Excellence, Creativity and Character, Integrity and Empathy – and give pupils a chance to work with and get to know people across the whole school community. 4. The Eco Group The aim is to provide a place for pupils to put their ideas about the school environment forward and work together to discuss and implement improvements. Current members are trying to develop a garden that is centred around the use of compost to use food waste from food technology. They also have plans to continue making sustainably sourced technology projects for raising money and pushing for more recycling opportunities in classrooms. 5. The Digital Leadership Group This group is interested in the use of technology inside of school. The members help run technology for school events. They have a computing club and organise the annual Bebras competition. They also have other various responsibilities, such as editing drone footage. 6. The Sports & Extracurricular Captains The Sports Captains work closely with the House Leaders to provide interhouse competitions. The aim is to involve everyone in the community. For example, they have run the freshers’ fair in Autumn to encourage pupils to join a club by displaying the wide range of extracurricular activities the school offers. The members also oversee competitions, such as Sports Day in the Upper and Lower school. They are also required to volunteer by supporting the PE teachers. 7. The Library and Careers Group The Careers team is a key group within the school community. The members ensure that the library can provide a range of diverse and engaging resources, an IT access, and a space that is welcoming to the whole Westgate community. They also provide support for the smooth running of the library’s activities in the Upper and Lower Schools. They also support the school through careers events by practising interviews and helping in the careers’ fair. 8. The Curriculum Group The aim is to provide a place for pupils to share their ideas about the curriculum and work together to implement changes that benefit the whole school. The members are focused on how to best support different learning styles, enhance classroom learning experiences, and help others with their studies. They have also discussed the effectiveness of not using mobile phones in school. This approach helps to boost pupils’ concentration during lessons and ensures a fairer environment by reducing distractions and removing potential inequalities. 9. The Arts Leads The aim is to promote the Arts department within the school community. This involves leading extra-curricular activities and encouraging younger pupils to take part in activities and promote the arts. The members inspire creativity which would eventually lead to opportunities for pupils to showcase their talent during events. 10. The Lower School Leads · Tutoring lower school pupils · Setting up Y9 DofE reading · Working on School Council · Aiming to bridge activities/clubs more effectively between the Lower and Upper school 11. The House Captains The House Captains represent and lead the four houses at Westgate. They ensure that there is a wide range of activities and competitions so that everyone has a chance to represent their house and help win the coveted house cup. They work with the house leaders to support the Westgate community challenge to make sure that house members are able to gain their Bronze or Silver, or even Gold badges. They celebrate this success with assemblies. 12. The PSA and Prom Committee The Senior Council representatives for Prom Committee help plan the Year 11 Prom. This includes orchestrating fundraising events and being involved in all the other aspects such as the yearbook. They also support the PSA (Parent and Staff Association). They ensure that the school and the parents work together to raise money for school projects. They suggest projects through speaking with other groups and organise pupil involvement. 13. The Language Lead The aim is to support the MFL Department and incorporate languages into the wider Westgate community. They work with the MFL teachers to set up and run clubs which encourage the younger years to excel in their classes. They also often work with the primary phase leaders and visit the lower school to help the pupils to enjoy learning languages from a young age. 14. The Media Lead The aim is to work with the school’s HR department and promote the school website and the social media. This may include taking photos and reporting on recent school events, helping in The Gate to showcase the school to parents or job applicants, and sharing school news with fellow pupils. 15. The Peer Supporters The peer supporter program is designed to help younger pupils feel more comfortable and happier at school. The main aim of the peer supporter lead is to work with the year 10s who have applied for this role, match them with a year 7 buddy and make sure everything runs smoothly. 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

  • Wraparound

    Westgate Wraparound is based at Westgate's Primary Phase and provides breakfast and after school provision, five days per week for primary school aged children. Wraparound Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Wraparound Internal / External Internal Age Range Year R - 6 Contact wraparound@westgate.hants.sch.uk Westgate Wraparound is based at Westgate's Primary Phase and provides high quality childcare in a safe and secure environment, with a relaxed and homely atmosphere five days a week for our Primary Phase children. Beginning at 7.45 am and running until the start of the school day, breakfast sessions include supplying a healthy breakfast (served until 8.30 am). After school sessions will begin at 3.20 pm and run until 6 pm, Monday to Friday. After school sessions will include a light snack. We have a brilliantly equipped playground and aim to provide a wide range of stimulating and creative activities for the children to enjoy. Some of our activities include outside play, craft, board games, imaginary role play, sports and seasonal/themed activities. Where other specialised clubs run after school on Westgate's campus (run by external providers, additional fees payable), Westgate Wraparound colleagues will ensure that your child is taken and collected from the club and their light snack will be saved for them. Sessions cost £8 per breakfast session and £17 per after school session. Places are in demand. Please email wraparound@westgate.hants.sch.uk for more information or to express an interest in a place. Expression of interest Westgate Wraparound Parent Handbook Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

  • Science

    Science Through discovery and collaboration, we flourish Go Go Our Science curriculum intends to: Make critical thinking and independence the foundation of learning and inspire a love of learning, self- discovery, and collaboration in all our pupils. Develop pupils’ deep understanding of the world around them and their role in creating an environmentally sustainable future for our planet. Enable pupils to make safe and healthy choices. Why Learn Science? Science provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. All pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of Science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They develop an understanding of how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes. There is a significant overlap with other subjects, such as Design & Technology, Mathematics, Geography, Physical Education and Food, Preparation & Nutrition and so cross-curricular links are regularly explored within lessons. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Science is planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. As pupils progress through the Lower School they will receive a breadth of subject specialist teaching using specialist facilities in Science - including use of our designated KS2 Science laboratory. Science is planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. As pupils progress through the Lower School they will receive a breadth of subject specialist teaching using specialist facilities in Science - including use of our designated KS2 Science laboratory. Key Stage 3 Science meets the expectations of the National Curriculum and beyond, both with respect to knowledge and skill development, providing a varied and balanced curriculum. Pupils study aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics by rotating through a variety of different topic which support pupils in understanding how Science is integral to all aspects of life and the world around us. Assessment: Pupils will be assessed on the development of their scientific skills and knowledge through in class checks for learning at the end of each topic. In addition to this, pupils will complete larger assessments towards the end of each term, at the end of a rotation of topics. Checks for learning and assessments will be teacher-marked and followed up with a feedback lesson in which pupil misconceptions and misunderstandings are addressed, and every pupil is set individualised targets to support their progress. Pupils will start the GCSE course at the beginning of the year. Throughout the year, classes will rotate through a series of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics topics. Each topic will focus on developing the knowledge and skills required to meet the three assessment objectives mentioned above. The topics are not equal in length, but the rotation of topics has been split into two halves. Year 9 pupils will cover the following topics over the year: Biology Cell structure and transport Cell division Organisation and the digestive system. Organisation in animals and plants Communicable diseases Chemistry Atomic structure The periodic table Structure and bonding Chemical changes Physics Conservation and dissipation of energy Energy transfer by heating Energy resources Year 10 pupils will cover the following topics from the beginning of the year to end of spring term: Biology Communicable diseases Preventing and treating disease Non-communicable diseases Photosynthesis Respiration The human nervous system Organising an ecosystem Chemistry Chemical calculations Electrolysis Energy changes in reactions Crude oil and fuels Physics Electric circuits Electricity in the home Molecules and matter Radioactivity Forces in balance Motion After Easter holidays, Year 10 pupils will either follow the Combined Science course (double ) or the separate Sciences (triple). All pupils will still cover topics in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics on a rotational basis, however separate Science pupils will accelerate through the curriculum to cover the extra content required. Year 10 curriculum will cover the following topics in the summer term: Combined Science (Double) Biology Hormonal coordination Reproduction Variation and evolution Chemistry Chemical analysis Physics Force and motion Separate Science Biology Hormonal coordination Homeostasis in action Chemistry Rates and equilibrium Organic Reactions Physics Force and motion Year 11 curriculum will cover the following topics in the autumn term: Combined Science (Double) Biology Variation, natural selection and evolution Biodiversity and ecosystems Organisms in their environment Competition Pollution Chemistry Rates of reaction The Earth’s atmosphere The Earth’s resources Physics Wave Properties Electromagnetic spectrum Magnetic fields & electromagnetism Separate Science Biology Reproduction Variation, Natural selection and evolution Theories of evolution and speciation Chemistry Titrations Gas laws Chemical analysis The Earth’s atmosphere Physics Forces and motion Pressure Wave properties Electromagnetic spectrum During the Spring and Summer term of Year 11, pupils will either continue studying for the separate Sciences or begin consolidating prior learning in preparation for the Combined Science trilogy course. Separate Science Pupils who continue with the separate Sciences route will study the following topics in the Spring term. Biology Biodiversity and ecosystems Organisms in their environment Competition Pollution Chemistry Properties of materials Physics Properties of light Magnetic fields & electromagnetism Space Home Learning: 1 or 2 pieces per week, lasting between 45 minutes to 1 hour in total. Assessment: Throughout each year pupils will be assessed through a mixture of end of topic tests and in class assessments. In Year 10, pupils will undertake an internal exam in the Spring term in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics. In Year 11, pupils will undertake internal exams in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics, in both the Autumn term and Spring term, before undertaking their final exams in the Summer term. Irrespective of whether they study the combined Science trilogy or separate Sciences routes, they will sit six exams; two exams each in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics. Combined Science trilogy exams have a duration of 1 hour 15 minutes each, and the separate Science exams each last 1 hour and 45 minutes. Exam Board: AQA Combined Science trilogy 8464 Biology 8461 Chemistry 8462 Physics 8463 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

  • Personal Development

    Personal Development Empowering individuals to grow in self-awareness, responsibility and life-long learning. Go Go Our Personal Development Curriculum intends to: Enable pupils to make effective choices. Teach pupils to be mindful of British Values. Develop pupils into positive citizens of modern-day Britain. Our personal development curriculum intends (through our Golden threads) to encourage pupils to: Make thoughtful choices that positively shape the future whilst understanding and accepting that their choices will have consequences. Act responsibly towards others and contribute meaningfully to society through ethical and compassionate behaviour. Encourage character development by recognising strengths, areas for improvement, values, and aspirations for personal growth. Why Learn Personal Development? Personal Development (PD) equips pupils to live healthy, safe, productive, capable, responsible and balanced lives. It encourages them to be enterprising and supports them in making effective transitions, positive learning and career choices and in achieving economic well-being. A critical component of PD education is providing opportunities for children and young people to reflect on and clarify their own values and attitudes and explore the complex, and sometimes conflicting, range of values and attitudes they encounter now and in the future. Personal Development education helps pupils to cope with the changes at puberty, introduces them to a wider world and enables them to make an active contribution to their communities. The curriculum for personal development is led by DSL (All-Through) and Year Leaders in the secondary phase, and by the designated Subject Lead in the primary phase. Working with leaders across all phases ensures a consistent approach and a spiralling curriculum which builds on prior learning in a manner which is both age and developmentally appropriate for pupils. All teachers are supported to deliver PD lessons in appropriate way through a CPD programme and individual support by Year Leaders / Assistant Year Leaders and Subject Leaders. Specialist teachers are used to deliver some aspects of the curriculum. Working with parents, carers, and the wider community to create a safe, inclusive, and happy environment where pupils develop a strong knowledge of self. We help them understand their strengths, make responsible choices, and recognise the consequences of their actions . By providing opportunities to explore careers, set goals, and build essential skills, we support pupils in planning for their future. We also foster a sense of responsibility to others and society , encouraging empathy, community engagement, and global citizenship. This holistic approach prepares pupils to lead fulfilling, purposeful lives beyond school. Long Term Plan (Year 7-11) EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Curriculum overview This aspect of our curriculum is delivered by class teachers with specialist input and assemblies where appropriate. PD offers explicit and implicit learning opportunities that are based on ‘Golden Threads’ that form the backbone of the PD curriculum across all key stages. PD is integral to all we teach and is delivered through a mixture of discrete lessons and within other curriculum areas. We understand that parents are the primary teachers of their children and we work in partnership to ensure our curriculum is complimented by what is taught at home. During Key Stage 1 pupils learn about themselves as developing individuals and as members of their communities, building on their own experiences and on the early learning goals for personal, social and emotional development. In EYFS and KS 1 each class uses a large personal development 'floor book' to evidence our learning. Each half term has a different focus for learning; these can be found on our long-term plans. During EYFS and Key Stage 1, pupils learn increasing independence and physical and social awareness, as they move through the primary phase. Pupils are given opportunities to develop effective relationships, assume greater personal responsibility and manage personal safety, including online. Personal Development helps introduce pupils to a wider world and enables them to make an active contribution to their communities. PD long term overview Curriculum overview PD offers explicit and implicit learning opportunities that are based on ‘Golden Threads’ that form the backbone of the PD curriculum across all key stages. PD is integral to all we teach and is delivered through a mixture of discrete lessons and within other curriculum areas. We understand that parents are the primary teachers of their children and we work in partnership to ensure our curriculum is complimented by what is taught at home. This aspect of the curriculum is taught by class teachers with specialist input and assemblies where appropriate. The Key Stage 2 curriculum builds upon the foundation of work delivered in EYFS and Key Stage 1. Pupils continue to develop effective relationships, assume greater personal responsibility and manage personal safety, including online. Personal Development helps pupils manage the physical and emotional changes at puberty, introduces them to a wider world and enables them to make an active contribution to their communities. Different teaching methods are used, such as direct teaching, discussion and debate, research, books, stories, visiting speakers and workshops. The schemes of work and lessons are planned to implement the curriculum intent and are flexible, reflecting pupils’ needs with adaptations to take on board pupils and parental feedback, ideas and topical issues in society. In Key Stage 2, each pupil has a Personal Development journal to record evidence of learning and express ideas. PD long term overview Key Stage 3 Curriculum Content & Overview In the secondary phase the curriculum is delivered through an extended tutor session on a weekly basis and supplemented by external speakers, small group work in afternoon tutor sessions and, through assemblies. Additional follow up conversations take place as part of the half termly 1:1 mentoring sessions that pupils have with their tutor. If additional mentoring is required, then this might be carried out by The Year or Assistant year Leader or a member of the pupil support team. Our Personal Development (PD) curriculum is built around three Golden Threads that run consistently through every year group: My Future – Choices and Consequences Responsibility to Others and Society Knowledge of Self These themes are delivered through a carefully sequenced, age‑appropriate spiralled curriculum that supports pupils’ personal growth over time. Alongside these core elements, the PD curriculum ensures full coverage of all statutory requirements, including: Citizenship Online Safety RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) Careers Education We also embed School and British Values , promote understanding of the Protected Characteristics , and deliver a comprehensive Safeguarding Curriculum that equips pupils to stay safe and make informed decisions. Our curriculum is dynamic and responsive. We review it continuously throughout the year, drawing on feedback from all stakeholders and adapting to any emerging contextual needs within our school or local community. In Year 7, pupils will also have a one-hour Personal Development lesson as part of their weekly timetable. Year 7 lesson will include: My Life To be able to explore puberty, menstruation, different types of feelings, the age of consent, healthy friendships, family, bullying. Statutory elements of RSE. Rights, Respect and Responsibility To explore the role of the UNCRC on protecting children and the role that Citizenship plays for individuals. Diversity of Britain Living in the wider world, exploring multi-culturalism in the UK and looking at the British Values and Protected characteristics. Law and Order To explore different types of Punishment, Law and Order, Youth crime and why young people may commit crimes. Curriculum Content & Overview In the secondary phase the curriculum is delivered through an extended tutor session on a weekly basis and supplemented by external speakers, small group work in afternoon tutor sessions and, through assemblies. Additional follow up conversations take place as part of the half termly 1:1 mentoring sessions that pupils have with their tutor. If additional mentoring is required, then this might be carried out by The Year or Assistant Year Leader or a member of the pupil support team. Our Personal Development (PD) curriculum is built around three Golden Threads that run consistently through every year group: My Future – Choices and Consequences Responsibility to Others and Society Knowledge of Self These themes are delivered through a carefully sequenced, age‑appropriate spiralled curriculum that supports pupils’ personal growth over time. Alongside these core elements, the PD curriculum ensures full coverage of all statutory requirements, including: Citizenship Online Safety RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) Careers Education We also embed School and British Values , promote understanding of the Protected Characteristics , and deliver a comprehensive Safeguarding Curriculum that equips pupils to stay safe and make informed decisions. Our curriculum is dynamic and responsive. We review it continuously throughout the year, drawing on feedback from all stakeholders and adapting to any emerging contextual needs within our school or local community. Curriculum Content & Overview In the secondary phase the curriculum is delivered through an extended tutor session on a weekly basis and supplemented by external speakers, small group work in afternoon tutor sessions and, through assemblies. Additional follow up conversations take place as part of the half termly 1:1 mentoring sessions that pupils have with their tutor. If additional mentoring is required, then this might be carried out by The Year or Assistant Year Leader or a member of the pupil support team. Our Personal Development (PD) curriculum is built around three Golden Threads that run consistently through every year group: My Future – Choices and Consequences Responsibility to Others and Society Knowledge of Self These themes are delivered through a carefully sequenced, age‑appropriate spiralled curriculum that supports pupils’ personal growth over time. Alongside these core elements, the PD curriculum ensures full coverage of all statutory requirements, including: Citizenship Online Safety RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) Careers Education We also embed School and British Values , promote understanding of the Protected Characteristics , and deliver a comprehensive Safeguarding Curriculum that equips pupils to stay safe and make informed decisions. Our curriculum is dynamic and responsive. We review it continuously throughout the year, drawing on feedback from all stakeholders and adapting to any emerging contextual needs within our school or local community. Year 10 lesson will include: Careers To prepare pupils for the application process for college and part time jobs, including supporting them with interview techniques. RSE and Health Education To deliver the Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education compulsory content. Philosophical and Ethical issues: To explore religious experience, arguments for and against God's existence, suffering, ethics and mythology. Religious attitudes towards matters in life: To explore the ethics surrounding IVF, Cloning, Organ Donation, Human Experimentation. Sport and Ethics To explore the ethics surrounding sport, looking at the ethics in sport, drugs to support performance, religions and participation in sport, sport and competition. 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

  • Leading & Developing an all-through school | The Westgate School

    Explore strategies for leading and growing successful all-through schools. Leading & Developing an all-through school Go Go Leading & Developing an all-through school Lead Professionals: Mrs F Dean (Executive Headteacher) and Mrs. J Edwards (Head of School) We’ve had the privilege of developing Hampshire’s first, all-through school with our first cohort of pupils from the primary phase moving into Year 7 back in 2021. Initially as a standalone secondary school, The Westgate School has for just over a decade, taken the journey to being a school from EYFS to Year 11, with 25% of pupils in our secondary phase having been to the school’s primary phase. Over time we have been delighted to share our journey with professionals from Multi-Academy Trusts and councils who are exploring the opportunities offered through this model. We would be delighted to invite to our school anyone interested in pursuing this opportunity, offering you a tour as well as a candid review of the opportunities and the challenges! Should be embarking on this journey, we would be happy to provide continued support which extends beyond the Executive Headteacher and Head of School, to include colleagues from across our setting and governors, providing a full range of experiences and views For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing All-Through. Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

  • Employers

    Join The Westgate School’s employer network to support careers events and inspire pupils—sign up to get involved and stay connected. Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers Partner with Us to Inspire the Next Generation Employers At The Westgate School, we are committed to preparing our pupils for life beyond the classroom. As part of our growing careers programme, we are always keen to work with local businesses who can help bring the world of work to life. If you or your organisation could support us—whether through mock interviews, delivering talks or presentations, or offering other opportunities that help pupils develop key skills and aspirations—we would love to hear from you. Together, we can help shape confident, motivated young people ready to thrive in their future careers. If you are interested, please use the following contact form so that we may contact you in the future 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

  • String ensemble

    Join Westgate's String Ensemble to enhance musical skills, teamwork, and performance. String ensemble Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings String ensemble Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details The String Ensemble is open to players of Violins, Violas, Cellos and Double Bass. The ensemble will develop instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills through-out the year, as well as develop a good social network of like-minded musicians. Musicians will have the opportunity to participate in events such as school concerts, open mornings and evenings, celebrations, the annual school carol service in December, and ‘Go West’ Festival in July, and wider community events. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

  • Rugby - Boys

    Join Westgate's Rugby Club for skill development, teamwork, and fun. Rugby - Boys Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Rugby - Boys Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details Joining a rugby club offers a wealth of benefits that can positively impact various aspects of your life. Here are some of the key advantages: Physical Fitness : Rugby is a physically demanding sport that provides an excellent full-body workout. It improves cardiovascular health, increases strength and power, and enhances agility and flexibility. Teamwork : Rugby is the ultimate team sport, emphasizing the importance of working together. It fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and teaches the value of collaboration and mutual support. Discipline : The structured nature of the game instills discipline and respect for the rules. Players learn the importance of self-control and the ability to perform under strict guidelines. Social Skills : Being part of a rugby club provides numerous opportunities to interact with others, enhancing communication skills and building a network of friends and acquaintances. Leadership : Rugby helps develop leadership qualities as players often have to take charge, make decisions, and motivate their teammates. Cultural Awareness : The sport is played globally, and involvement in a rugby club can expose players to different cultures and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and understanding. Enjoyment : Above all, rugby is an exhilarating sport that offers a sense of adventure and fun. The excitement of the game and the shared experiences create lasting memories. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, develop life skills, or simply enjoy the thrill of the game, joining a rugby club is a fantastic choice. It's a sport that builds character and creates a strong sense of community. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

  • Geography

    Geography Inspiring awe and wonder in the world around us Go Go Our Geography Curriculum intends to: Inspire pupils to develop curiosity and fascination about the world and its people. Equip pupils with knowledge about diverse places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earths key physical and human processes. Give pupils the geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to provide the frameworks and approaches that explain how the Earth's features at different scales are shaped, interconnected and change over time. Why Learn Geography? A high-quality geography education will inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. This will equip pupils with the knowledge about diverse places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earth's key physical and human processes. As pupils progress, their growing knowledge about the world will help them to deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes, and of the formation and use of landscapes and environments. Geography knowledge, understanding and skills provide the framework and approaches that explain how the Earths' features at different scales are shaped, interconnected and change over time. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. Each topic begins with an enrichment activity such as an educational visit or special event that captures the children’s interest and imagination and builds towards a showcase event such as an exhibition or assembly where c hildren’s learning can be shared and celebrated. Key stage 1 Subject Content Pupils develop knowledge about the world, the United Kingdom and their locality. They are taught to understand basic subject-specific vocabulary relating to human and physical geography and begin to use geographical skills, including first-hand observation, to enhance their locational awareness. Pupils are taught to: 1. Locational knowledge Name and locate the world’s seven continents and five oceans Name, locate and identify characteristics of the four countries and capital cities of the United Kingdom and its surrounding seas 2. Place knowledge Understand geographical similarities and differences through studying the human and physical geography of a small area of the United Kingdom, and of a small area in a contrasting non-European country 3. Human and physical geography Identify seasonal and daily weather patterns in the United Kingdom and the location of hot and cold areas of the world in relation to the Equator and the North and South Poles. Use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to: Key physical features, including: beach, cliff, coast, forest, hill, mountain, sea, ocean, river, soil, valley, vegetation, season and weather. Key human features, including: city, town, village, factory, farm, house, office, port, harbour and shop. Geographical skills and fieldwork Use world maps, atlases and globes to identify the United Kingdom and its countries, as well as the countries, continents and oceans studied at this key stage Use simple compass directions (North, South, East and West) and locational and directional language (e.g., near and far; left and right), to describe the location of features and routes on a map Use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features; devise a simple map; and use and construct basic symbols in a key Use simple fieldwork and observational skills to study the geography of their school and its grounds and the key human and physical features of its surrounding environment. Planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. Each topic begins with an enrichment activity such as an educational visit or special event that captures the children’s interest and imagination and builds towards a showcase event such as an exhibition or assembly where c hildren’s learning can be shared and celebrated. Key stage 2 Subject Content Pupils will extend their knowledge and understanding beyond the local area to include the United Kingdom and Europe, North and South America. This will include the location and characteristics of a range of the world’s most significant human and physical features. They should develop their use of geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to enhance their locational and place knowledge. Pupils will be taught to: Locational knowledge Locate the world’s countries, using maps to focus on Europe (including the location of Russia) and North and South America, concentrating on their environmental regions, key physical and human characteristics, countries, and major cities name and locate counties and cities of the United Kingdom, geographical regions and their identifying human and physical characteristics, key topographical features (including hills, mountains, coasts and rivers), and land-use patterns; and understand how some of these aspects have changed over time identify the position and significance of latitude, longitude, Equator, Northern Hemisphere, Southern Hemisphere, the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, Arctic and Antarctic Circle, the Prime/Greenwich Meridian and time zones (including day and night) 2. Place knowledge Understand geographical similarities and differences through the study of human and physical geography of a region of the United Kingdom, a region in a European country, and a region within North or South America 3. Human and physical geography Describe and understand key aspects of: Physical geography, including: climate zones, biomes and vegetation belts, rivers, mountains, volcanoes and earthquakes, and the water cycle Human geography, including: types of settlement and land use, economic activity including trade links, and the distribution of natural resources including energy, food, minerals and water Geographical skills and fieldwork Use maps, atlases, globes and digital/computer mapping to locate countries and describe features studied. Use the eight points of a compass, four and six-figure grid references, symbols and key (including the use of Ordnance Survey maps) to build their knowledge of the United Kingdom and the wider world. Use fieldwork to observe, measure, record and present the human and physical features in the local area using a range of methods, including sketch maps, plans and graphs, and digital technologies. We deliver our Geography syllabus around a range of local and international themes, considering both physical aspects and human impact our our environment. Pupils will be look at case studies to consider the many aspects of our geographical sourroundings. Year 7 and 8 Course Content: The following topics will be covered in Year 7: Fantastic Places - we will discover the human and physical processes impacting a range of diverse and fascinating places around the world including Svalbard, Dubai, Russia and the Great Barrier Reef. Map skills - we will develop their map skills, including the ability to give 4 and 6 figure grid references, scale, map symbols, direction, height on maps and the use of GIS. Raging Rivers - we will gain an understanding of the different physical and human processes that occur along rivers. Brilliant Biomes - we will develop an understanding of where the world’s major biomes are located and the ways in which these biomes are under threat. The following topics will be covered in Year 8: Tectonic Activity - we discover the different processes that cause tectonic hazards and the effects and responses to earthquakes and volcanoes. Global World of Work - we investigate how sectors of work are changing within different countries and the impact that globalisation is having on employment sectors. Africa - we investigate the social, economic and environmental characteristics across African countries and the issues that Africa faces within the 21st Century. Extreme Weather - we define the causes, effects and responses to extreme weather events and will investigate specific case studies of such hazards. Coasts - we will gain an understanding of the different processes at work along coastal areas, the impacts of coastal flooding and management strategies used in coastal environments. Asia - we investigate the social, economic, and environmental characteristics across Asia and the challenges that Asia faces. Many of the topics in Geography - and especially the trips organised to complement the curriculum - are designed to broaden pupils’ cultural experiences. Course Skills: Pupils will have the opportunity to develop an array of skills including map skills, fieldwork skills and skills of literacy and numeracy. Within the course pupils will build their knowledge of Winchester, Hampshire, the UK and the wider world around them, alongside key geographical processes Year 9 course content: Autumn term: Fieldwork skills, which will include a local fieldwork study within Winchester. Population change and management, which will focus on how populations are changing worldwide, the issues which arise as a result and how it can be managed. Spring term: Ecosystems - Pupils will learn about the different processes within biomes and investigate the challenges and opportunities of the Tropical rainforest. Changing urban world - Pupils will learn about the ways in which urban areas are changing across the world. Summer term: Climate change - Pupils will investigate the causes, effects and management of climate change. Rivers - Pupils will learn about river processes and the ways in which they are being managed. Home Learning: Home Learning will be set on a weekly basis and will include a mix of practice questions, research-based activities and revision GCSE Content: Pupils will cover the following topics within the GCSE course: Paper 1 - Living with the Physical Environment Section A: The challenge of natural hazards Section B: The living world Section C: Physical landscapes in the UK Paper 2 - Challenges in the human environment Section A: Urban challenges Section B: The changing economic world Section C: The challenge of resource management Paper 3 - Geographical applications Section A: Issue evaluation Section B: Fieldwork and geographical enquiry During Field Work pupils will have an opportunity to do a local fieldwork study in Years 9 and 10. Pupils have also had the opportunity for fieldwork abroad, in locations such as Iceland. Home Learning: Home Learning will be set on a weekly basis and will include a mix of practice questions, research-based activities and revision. Exam Board: AQA - 8035 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

  • Keyboard Club

    Unlock your musical potential at The Westgate School Keyboard Club! Join us to learn, play, and create beautiful music in a supportive setting. Keyboard Club Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Keyboard Club Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 9 Contact See EduLink for further details The Keyboard Club is open to Year 7 and Year 8s.  The club will develop instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills through-out the year, as well as develop a good social network of like-minded musicians. The club will support pupils with their music class work and pupils will work at their own pace individually. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

  • Leadership Coaching & Mentoring | The Westgate School

    Develop leadership skills through professional coaching and mentoring for educators. Leadership Coaching & Mentoring Go Go Leadership Coaching & Mentoring Lead Professional: Mrs. F Dean (Executive Headteacher); Mrs. J Edwards (Head of School) and Mrs. K. Evans (Deputy Headteacher) Leadership coaching and mentoring provide structured support for individuals in leadership roles to develop their skills, confidence, and strategic thinking. Through personalised sessions, leaders can reflect on their practice and identify areas for growth. This process fosters resilience and adaptability, enabling leaders to navigate complex challenges effectively. Mentoring complements coaching by offering guidance from experienced professionals who share insights and practical advice. It creates a collaborative environment where leaders can learn from real-world experiences, build networks, and gain perspective on long-term career development. Together, coaching and mentoring strengthen leadership capacity and contribute to sustainable improvement across teams. For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Leadership Coaching . Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

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