The Belfast High School Curriculum
The School curriculum is designed to provide the broadest possible choice of subjects and experience for pupils.
Key Stage 3 (Years 8, 9 and 10)
Pupils study the following subjects: English, Mathematics, French, German, Spanish, History, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Music, Latin, Art, Home Economics, Technology, Physical Education, Religious Education, Employability, Citizenship and Personal Development.
In Year 10 pupils study ICT in addition and are offered a choice of new subjects including Classical Civilisation, or they can continue with all their previous subjects.
Key Stage 4 (Years 11 and 12)
Pupils prepare for GCSE examinations. All our pupils study English, English Literature, and Mathematics. A small number may not continue with English Literature in Year 12. In addition we offer Additional Mathematics, Art, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Classical Civilization, Information and Communication Technology, Double Award Science, French, Geography, German, History, Home Economics, Latin, Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Religious Studies, Single Award Science, Single Award Applied Science, Spanish and Technology (Products and Systems Design). Pupils choose 5 more subjects, within the limits of Government Regulations, from the list above. Greek, Music and Additional Maths can be made available outside the timetable as a tenth subject for very able pupils.
For more information about the GCSE options click here.
Key Stage 5 (Years 13 and 14)
In Year 13 our pupils study 3 or 4 'AS' levels drawn from a list of more than 27 different subjects some of which are provided by partner schools in the Newtownabbey Learning Community. In addition some Year 13 and 14 pupils follow a course leading to an additional GCSE or an accreditation in Key Skills (Information Technology). Young Enterprise, Motor Vehicle Studies, Business Studies and a Religious Studies short course are also available. All 'A' Level pupils participate in a course which deals with interview and communication skills, careers advice and information about tertiary level education.
In Year 14 our pupils take 3 or 4 subjects to A2 level and follow an enrichment programme including UCAS preparation, talks by visiting speakers and basic life skills.
Throughout Years 8-12, classes in Religious Studies are provided for every pupil, but parents who have a conscientious objection may withdraw their children.
Careers Education is organised by a team of teachers, supplemented by the Careers Officers from the Training and Employment Agency, who provide information and advice for all pupils from Year 10 upwards. As well as Careers classes and interviews, the School has a full programme of special visits and work experience schemes designed to help pupils make informed career choices.
At all levels throughout the School, pupils are required to do homework as an integral part of their studies. Parents are expected to co-operate by providing pupils with suitable opportunities to do their homework and by ensuring that it is done.
For more information about the A Level options, click here.