Curriculum Overview

Students study a broad, balanced, rich and ambitious curriculum throughout KS3 so that all students including the most disadvantaged and those with SEND have the opportunity to study EBACC at KS4.

Every student at OPA has an equal right to broad and balanced curriculum that they can successfully access to be ready for the next stage of education and employment. Although students select the GCSE subjects they will work towards at the end of Year 9, the preparation for those final exams starts from the moment they enter the academy. In all subjects, students benefit from curriculum planning which builds on learning already secured at primary school and ensuring the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding are progressively developed and consolidated over the five years between Years 7 and 11.

Key Stage 3

The breakdown of Key Stage 3 lessons per week is shown here. Students are mostly taught in ability groups.

Year 7

SubjectLessons per week
PSHE1
French1
Science3
Mathematics4
Art2
History2
RE1
Geography2
English4
Reading1
PE2
IT1
Performing Arts1

Year 8

SubjectLessons per week
PSHE1
French1
Science3
Mathematics4
Art2
History2
RE1
Geography2
English4
Reading1
PE2
IT1
Performing Arts1

Year 9

SubjectLessons per week
PSHE1
French1
Science3
Mathematics4
Art2
History2
RE1
Geography2
English4
Reading1
PE2
IT1
Performing Arts1

Key Stage 4

The breakdown of Key Stage 4 lessons per week is shown here.

Year 10

SubjectLessons per week
Option 13
Option 23
Option 33
Mathematics5
English5
Science6
PE1

Year 11

SubjectLessons per week
Option 13
Option 23
Option 33
Mathematics5
English5
Science6
PE1

Our Personal Development Curriculum

Our commitment to the holistic personal development and welfare of each student underpins the Academy’s CPRE Curriculum. These weekly lessons develop the spiritual, social, moral and cultural values and experiences of students as well as ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to sustain a healthy and active lifestyle. In short, students are equipped to take their place in the world, participating fully as confident citizens.

The key aspects of the CPRE programme students will experience include:

  • Aspirations, coaching, personal development and goal-setting.
  • Personal well-being including sexual, mental and physical health including substance misuse.
  • British Values.
  • The national Prevent Agenda.
  • How to remain safe, e.g. avoiding exploitation; internet safety; safety whilst out and about.
  • Financial well-being and what it means to be ‘financially capable’.
  • Supplementary qualifications providing essential skills for life beyond school – European Computer Driving License and Certificate of Financial Education, careers education, information and guidance as to the world of education, employment and training.