Curriculum

Curriculum Intent and Vision

At the heart of our curriculum is our school vision. We strive to provide a curriculum which is broad and balanced, meeting the varied needs of our learners. When students leave Testbourne, we believe that our curriculum prepares them for the next chapter in their education, having received high-quality teaching that appropriately challenged them and enabled them to develop a sound skills set.

Students act with integrity; achieve excellence together; enjoy and value their education; feel and demonstrate respect for themselves and others; become highly skilled learners prepared for a successful future.

Our curriculum is intended to:

• Ensure that all of our students have the opportunity to truly achieve excellence. 
• Enable our students to develop deep knowledge and understanding of their subjects.
• Equip students for a more competitive and demanding future.
• Cater for all students, whatever their starting point.
• Raise standards of attainment and progress.

Curriculum Implementation

At Testbourne, we understand that students needs are varied and we endeavour to cater for the needs of each and every one of our students. We tailor support for our students to allow them to achieve success, whether they have Special Educational Needs, or have been identified through our More Able Student programme.

Our curriculum is delivered in 60 fifty minute lessons across a two week timetable, with students also participating in an extensive tutorial programme, which is delivered daily by our experienced team of tutors. Lessons are taught in set or mixed ability classes, allowing for teaching to appropriately match the needs of students in each subject area. Further information on the use of set and mixed-ability teaching in specific subjects can be requested from our Heads of Department.

Heads of Department direct the subject-specific provision within our curriculum; from continual monitoring and evaluation of their department, to development and implementation of the latest innovations in their subject, they ensure that students are given the best opportunities to achieve success. Many of our experienced Heads of Department work with GCSE examination boards or collaborate with other leading teachers across Hampshire. When students are identified who are in need of additional support or challenge, it is our Heads of Department who direct targeted interventions and support to enable these students to progress, working closely with our Learning Support department and More Able Student co-ordinator.

In addition to our broad and balanced school curriculum, a fantastic array of extra-curricular activities are on offer at TCS as we believe that providing and encouraging these are essential to developing the skills we want to see in our learners: resilience, inquisitive minds, dedication, commitment, team work and a growth mindset to enable them to grow as young people. Students are also able to access a whole host of Performing Arts activities and events including peripatetic music lessons, a biennial music tour abroad, whole school musical productions, Theatre trips, Arts Evening, TestFest, involvement in Competitions and Festivals as well as a huge range of music ensembles to join and Dance and Drama groups.

To recognise and celebrate students' achievement within our curriculum provision, students are awarded House Points which contribute towards the overall points tally for our Houses; Ash, Beech, Oak, and Willow. Students can be awarded one, two, or three House Points when they demonstrate one of the following qualities:

• Kindness & Respect
• Honesty & Integrity
• Ambitious Learner
• Leadership

For further information on the subjects within our curriculum, please click here.

Please contact us if you require more information.