Curriculum Overview

Priory School Curriculum Vision

Priory’s curriculum is the totality of pupils’ experience. It is broad, balanced and ambitious, exceeds minimum National Curriculum expectations and is planned backwards from future study, employment and adult life. 

We lead and believe in a progression based, knowledge and literacy rich curriculum, that is sequenced to allow the appropriate accumulation of knowledge, at each stage of a student’s progression through school. 

The professional development of our curriculum leaders and all leaders is a priority for our school, to ensure the consistency and growth of our curriculum vision – and improved outcomes for all students every year.

We are dedicated and realise the importance of our students’ articulation and understanding of our curriculum vision and narrative, to ensure independent lifelong learners that are engaged with their curriculum.

Key stage 3

At Priory school our key stage 3 is a two year curriculum across year 7 and 8. In key stage 3, students will study curriculum within a wide range of subjects. The core curriculum for key stage 3 learners is English, Maths, Science, History, Geography, Modern foreign language (either German, French or Spanish), PE, DT, PSCRE, Art, Computer Science, Drama and Music.

Key stage 4

The Priory Key Stage 4 offer is a three year curriculum across year 9, 10 and 11. Key stage 4 includes 25 subjects, including six vocational qualifications. Options are designed to maximise choice while ensuring appropriate guidance and pathways. English, Mathematics, Science, PE, CRE/RE, RSHE and tutor provision secure a common entitlement. Arts, technology, languages, humanities, business and vocational subjects remain integral. Outdoor education, Pursuit Week, trips, DofE, careers, clubs and student leadership extend learning beyond lessons and broaden cultural capital.

More in depth information on the curriculum of these subjects can be found on their subject specific pages. 

Gamechanger curriculum

We define curriculum as ‘the totality of student experiences that occur in the educational process’. Our curriculum, therefore, is far broader than the timetable, encompassing extra-curricular clubs, careers, sailing trips, the outdoor programme, Duke of Edinburgh and trips and visits programme together with all other aspects of delivery to students.

Literacy 

The Literacy strategy at Priory sits under the umbrella of the Trust’s Virtual School Plan. Using a  threefold approach the strategy focuses on ‘Quality teaching’, ‘Intervention’ and ‘Love of Literacy’. Literacy is an integral part of all classroom practice. 

• Updated September 2026

BET Curriculum Statement