Key Stage 3 Curriculum

Our curriculum at Key Stage 3, which includes Years 7 to 9, matches that of leading, independent schools in the United Kingdom to ensure the highest standards. We provide the National Curriculum for England adapted to match local requirements and enriched to provide a depth of learning across all areas. In accordance with the UAE’s Ministry of Education, we provide Arabic Language, UAE Social Studies and, for Muslim students, Islamic Studies.

Subjects taught in Key Stage 3 lead on to Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11) where students complete GSCE/iGCSE qualification examinations. Students then enter the sixth form towards completion of the GCE (A- level) examinations. The school will also offer a range of BTEC vocational courses in the upper years..

Aims And Objectives

The aim of our curriculum is to develop as fully as possible the understanding, knowledge and skills of each student so that when they leave Arcadia they are in a position to meet the challenges that they will face in a rapidly globalising and competitive world. It is also our intention to ensure that our students can leave the school with the prerequisite qualifications to be able to access higher education all over the world. In order to fulfil this expectation, Arcadia will provide a variety of learning pathways to serve the needs of all of our students, ensuring they can complete their Key Stage 4 and 5 years of learning.

Skill Areas Developed

For students in KS3, the curriculum contains a range of compulsory and optional subjects which aim to provide experience and skill development in the following areas:

Linguistic:

develop students’ communication skills and increase their command of language. This is developed through English (Language and Literature) and at least one foreign language (Arabic and French).

Mathematical:

To teach students how to calculate and appreciate relationships and patterns in number and space as well as to think logically and express themselves clearly. This is developed through Mathematics, Computer Science and Science.

Scientific:

To develop students’ scientific skills, knowledge and understanding. This is developed through Integrated Science in KS3 Years 7 and 8 and as separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics from Year 9 upwards.

Technological:

To teach students a range of technological skills including up-to-date applications of ICT, to develop, plan and communicate ideas and to produce and evaluate good quality products. This is developed through Computer Science, Digital Skills and Design and Technology.

Human And Social:

To teach students about people and their interaction with the environment and how human action has influenced events and conditions. This is developed through Integrated Humanities, including Geography and History, Islamic Studies, UAE Social Studies and Enrichment Days/Moral Education.

Physical:

To teach the basic principles of fitness and health and to develop students’ physical control and coordination. This is developed through Games and Physical Education. CREATIVE: To develop students’ aesthetic and creative skills. This is developed through Art, Drama and Music.

Moral, Social, Spiritual And Cultural Development:

To develop students’ self- knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence so that they can distinguish right from wrong and respect the law as well as accept responsibility for their behaviour, show initiative and understand how they can contribute to community life. This is developed through Islamic Studies, Geography, History, the extra-curricular programme and Enrichment Days/Moral Education.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7 - 9)

Key Stage 3 Curriculum Booklet