Middle (Ages 13 - 16)

The pupils’ strong achievements in both curricular and co-curricular areas are the result of a distinctive focus on the individual. _{ISI Inspection Report}

The Middle School for pupils in Year 9 to Year 11 (ages 13 to 16) is the largest section of the school, and is where pupils forge their pathways through making choices and shaping their learner profiles. There is a natural sense of growth and anticipation throughout Year 9 to Year 11 as pupils begin to select subject options for public examinations and consider life after the Middle School. The Worth community and the experience of those in academic and pastoral positions is invaluable at this time, helping pupils to identify their goals in life and the next steps in the path ahead.

The Year 9 curriculum follows a similar pattern to that of Year 7 and Year 8 with a few further modifications. Art, Computer Science, Drama, Design and Technology, English, French, Geography, History, Mathematics, Physical Education and Religious Studies continue to be studied. Lessons in Biology, Chemistry and Physics are introduced in place of Science. German or Spanish can replace French or be studied as an optional second language. Latin and Music also become optional. All subjects increasingly begin to be studied at GCSE standard and GCSE course content is begun by at least the beginning of the Lent Term. This early start facilitates an enriched curriculum across the Middle School years (Year 9-11), not one wholly dominated by the demands of GCSEs, and it also affords the most thorough preparation for these important public exams.

Following the options process in Year 9, pupils typically prepare for nine or 10 GCSEs. Having already studied GCSE course content and skills, they are able to make an informed choice of subjects. A GCSE in English as a Second Language is offered to our small minority of EAL students in place of English and English Literature. Economics and Photography are also offered from Year 10 as GCSEs.

Academic Enrichment is fostered by academic clubs and societies such as Young Medics, Global Politics and Current Affairs, Debating and Model United Nations which run during dedicated slots in the timetable. During the academic year there are opportunities for visits, exchanges, talks, conferences and team building sessions – all of which extend pupils’ academic interests beyond the classroom.  Each academic department has a subject-specific policy on providing for academically gifted pupils and much work is done within departments and within the classroom to stretch these pupils and to challenge them to aim as high as possible.

The 2023-24 GCSE Options Booklet can be found here.

Our Able, Gifted and Talented booklet can be found here.

Worth is not just about league tables but about getting the best from each individual child, helping them to grow in confidence and understanding. _Parent