Curriculum

Academic and Character Education is fundamental element of The William Lovell C of E academy experience. Strength of character goes in hand with academic achievement.

Every person is valued within our school and we empower and challenge all, constructively building one another up, so that every person within our community is able to become the best version of themselves and to have the widest possible life choices.

Subsequently, we hope to inspire every member of the community to have a positive impact on the world around them and to trust that they have the power to make a difference.

For further information on the curriculum please contact Mrs Whittaker, Assistant Headteacher at Joanne.Whittaker@williamlovell.laat.co.uk

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” Thessalonians 5:11

“The smallest of all seeds, when it has grown, is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." Matthew 13:32

We are excited to share the evolution of our curriculum design, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students. At our school, we recognise the unique learning journeys of each student, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and diverse backgrounds. With a focus on inclusivity, cultural exposure, and the development of essential 21st-century skills, our curriculum aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future.

Key Features of Our Curriculum:

Academic Excellence:

Rigorous Assessment: We uphold high academic standards through rigorous assessments and continuous evaluation methods.
Live Marking and Verbal Feedback: Our teachers provide timely feedback to students, promoting a culture of constant improvement.

Inclusivity and Diversity:

Addressing Diverse Learning Styles: We acknowledge and address various learning styles and backgrounds, ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged and engaged.

Cultural Enrichment:

Integrated Cultural Content: Our curriculum integrates diverse cultural content, enhancing students' understanding of the world around them.

21st-Century Skills:

Critical Thinking, Communication, and Collaboration: We emphasize critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration, essential skills for success in the modern world.
Digital Literacy: For the first time in our school's history, we have incorporated Computer Science into our curriculum, providing students with valuable digital literacy skills. Additionally, opportunities to enhance STEM education are available.

Lifelong Learning:

Research Skills and Adaptability: We promote lifelong learning by developing research skills and adaptability among our students, preparing them for a rapidly changing world. Witness these skills in action on October 4th.

PSHRE (Personal, Social, Health, and Relationship Education):

Ethical Education and Civic Engagement: We instil ethical values and encourage civic engagement, fostering social responsibility among our students.

Alignment with Future Needs:

Relevance to Workforce Needs: Our curriculum is designed to align with current and future workforce requirements, incorporating emerging technologies beyond the national curriculum.

Continuous Improvement:

Feedback-Driven Adjustments: We make data-informed, feedback-driven adjustments to our curriculum, ensuring its effectiveness.
Professional Development: Our educators participate in ongoing professional development, staying updated with the latest educational practices.

At our school, the curriculum is not just a set of lessons but a pathway to personal growth, academic excellence, and lifelong learning. We are committed to nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible, creative, and adaptable individuals, well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.

Join us on this exciting educational journey!

Years 7, 8 and 9

In Year 7, 8, and 9, each subject follows the national Programme of Study. Each subject has designed a strategic five-year-plan, building on knowledge and skills in primary school and preparing students for the expectations of Year 10 and 11. Sessions last 50 minutes.

In Year 7, 8 and 9, students have access to a broad offer, studying a mixture of academic, practical and creative subjects:

Subjects	Year 7	Year 8	Year 9
Subjects	Sessions Per Week
English	5	5	5
Maths	4	4	4
Science	3	3	4
History	2	2	2
Geography	2	2	2
Languages	2	2	2
RE	2	2	2
Computing	1	1	1
PE	3	3	3
Literacy	1	1
Design Technology	2	2	2
Food Technology	Tech Rotation	Tech Rotation	Tech Rotation
Music	2	2	2
Art	1	1	1

Preparation for GCSEs begins in Year 9 – Options

Our focus on developing key skills and drawing out students’ ambitions, providing each learner with the opportunity to fulfil their potential, be their best version of themselves and discover their passions within and beyond the curriculum.

The options process takes place in Year 9 at William Lovell C of E Academy. The options process encourages students and parents to consider the following factors when choosing option subjects:
Enjoyment of and engagement with the subject
Current progress and attainment within the subject
The ‘mix’ and ‘balance’ of chosen options
Links to future career or intended post-16 destination
Fulfilment of the English Baccalaureate

Years 10 and 11

In Year 10 and 11, students are well placed to succeed in their GCSE and vocational studies. Throughout the KS4 years, students develop knowledge, life skills and prepare for the next phase of their educational journey through post GCSE guidance to assist them with their future pathway. Our curriculum combines traditional, modern, creative and practical subjects to create a broad, rich curriculum, delivered by skilled practitioners who have a genuine passion for their subject. By stimulating students’ intellectual curiosity, nurturing and expanding their ambitions and promoting the academic skills they need for success, every student is prepared for life beyond the academy.

Subjects	Year 10	Year 11
Subjects	Sessions Per Week
English	5	5
Maths	4	4
Science	5	5
Option A	4	4
Option B	4	4
Option C	4	4
RE	2	2
PE	1	1
Computing	1	1

For further details on curriculum please contact Joanne Whittaker at joanne.whittaker@williamlovell.laat.co.uk

Curriculum Plans

Every subject is required to create a long term plan overview to show students progression through their course in preparation for examination at the end of KS4.

Character education (personal, social, and health education, British values, aspirations citizenship, and relationships and sex education)

This is delivered through various strands including: a discreet one-hour lesson per week with form tutors, focused drop-down days in Year 11, tutor time, leadership roles, cross curricular input, information evenings, assemblies and visiting speakers, participation in national events, work and through service to the community. Character education comprises PSHE, citizenship, relationships and sex education.

An overview of personal development opportunities are referenced here: Personal Development

Exam Success at William Lovell C of E Academy 2023

We are immensely proud to announce that our Year 11 students have successfully navigated through the challenging waters of the COVID-19 pandemic and have all reached their next destinations with resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. Despite the unprecedented obstacles they faced, our students have emerged stronger and more prepared than ever to embrace their bright futures. Their adaptability, perseverance, and commitment to their education are truly commendable, serving as an inspiring example for all. We celebrate their achievements and look forward to witnessing the continued success and growth of these remarkable young individuals as they embark on their next exciting adventures.