SDCC Curriculum Intent 2024/25

At Stoke Damerel Community College we aim to provide a World Class education. This is not a glib statement but one that sets out our ambition for our students and staff alike. 

We realise this through our broad and diverse curriculum, which aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills and characteristics to learn beyond school and to participate in and question the world of tomorrow.

Curriculum Maps for each year group can be found below

For more information about our curriculum, please contact moakes@sdcc-smhc.net.

Previous Terms

Our curriculum is guided by the following principles:

1. Our students are entitled to powerful knowledge in all subjects and this is at the heart of our curriculum. 

2. Our curriculum is coherent and expertly sequenced built around the key concepts children need to learn to enhance their development and outcomes. Domain specific knowledge and skills are built upon previous knowledge and skills so that students build rich, subject-specific schema.

3. Our curriculum provides opportunities for students to experience learning that challenges their thinking, questions values and provides a deep understanding of the City, Country and World in which they live.

4. Our curriculum is broad and balanced and meets the needs of all learners. It allows students to study a wide range of subjects for as long a possible.

5. Our curriculum is a ‘live’ document: it is discussed, evaluated and modified regularly according to the needs of our students and the changing dynamics of the subjects that we teach

6. Our curriculum promotes a love of and fluency in reading and writing. A fluency in reading and writing is vital for students to be able to access the world around them.  

7. Our wider curriculum teaches students behaviour, expectations, standards and routines in which our community thrives.      

8. Our curriculum includes an extensive character offer. Which includes a comprehensive co-curricular program and excellent careers provision.

Our curriculum at Key Stage 3 focuses on giving every child the widest experience possible across the arts, languages, humanities and technical subjects whilst maintaining a strong focus on the core subjects of English, mathematics, science, RE and PE.

The Key Stage 4 curriculum and options process

At Key Stage 4 the curriculum combines both core and optional subjects and is structured to allow for maximum flexibility of choice. Students will choose their options in year 9, allowing them time to experience all subjects and make an informed decision.

All students will be required to study English language, English literature, mathematics and combined science. Students are also required to study one of geography, history, computing or French.

Students will then be able to choose from a wide range of GCSE and vocational subjects. As a school, we make every effort to ensure all students get the options that they desire.

The following subjects are offered as option subjects at Key Stage 4 as a GCSE or equivalent.

Students will also continue to complete core PE & Health lessons and a curriculum which covers core ideas within the Religious Education framework and Personal, Social, Health Education. 

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For more information about our curriculum, please contact moakes@sdcc-smhc.net.