Subjects

At Wetherby Senior, we remain academically ambitious for our pupils. Through our broad, challenging and rewarding curriculum of subjects, we guide our boys towards the highest levels of attainment and future success.

Our academic curriculum

At Wetherby Senior, our rigorous academic subjects are taught by specialist teachers and make use of outstanding facilities, so builds knowledge and understanding amongst our boys. This is reflected in our exam success at both GCSE and A Level, and in the university destinations of our alumni, who now study at world-class institutions around the globe.

Below, you can hear more from our Head of Maths, our Head of English and Head of Music about study and life in their departments at Wetherby Senior.



Art and Graphic Design

At Wetherby Senior, our boys are taught art and graphic design through a range of manual and digital media. We have two specialist teachers and make use of three studios which house excellent facilities, including two computer suites, a laser cutter, workshop tools, printing presses and a kiln. Art exhibitions are hosted during the course of the academic year and our boys’ work is displayed throughout our School.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

From Year 7, our pupils study both art and graphic design techniques through the use of manual and digital media. Our course aims to give a good grounding in drawing techniques, both on and off the computer, to support our boys in communicating their ideas visually. Our pupils also learn how to discuss the work of other artists and designers, and how to critically evaluate and refine their own work.

Our pupils complete a range of projects, all of which are underpinned by a thorough understanding of the formal elements and references to both traditional and contemporary artists. As part of this, our boys are taught to look critically at, and analyse, the work of other artists and designers.

Our pupils learn to develop their own ideas, related to a design brief or statement of intent. They produce outcomes in a range of manual and digital media, including drawing, painting, typography and sculpture, which they discuss and evaluate.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9, our boys continue to have art lessons which involve the use of both manual and digital techniques, in order to gain a good grounding in fine art and graphic design and to prepare them for the choice of either option at GCSE.

GCSE studies

GCSE Art and Design is taught over five periods per fortnight. It is largely coursework-based, but also includes an exam project, known as the Externally Set Assignment, which begins in January of Year 11 and consists of several weeks of planning time before a ten hour examination.

For GCSE Art and Design, our pupils explore a range of practical activities and respond in a personal way to different themes and ideas. Our staff arrange trips to a range of galleries in Years 10 and 11, to help our pupils investigate the artwork of different artists.

Through GCSE Art and Design, our pupils experiment with a range of media and materials including drawing, painting, clay, printmaking, photography and digital manipulation, and collage, enabling them to develop confidence in their skills. Our pupils continue to develop critical thinking in response to a range of art and artists.

At A Level

A Level Art and Design is the right course for boys with an imagination and a dedicated work ethic, who want to explore a range of disciplines and give visual form to their thoughts, feelings, observations and ideas.

A Level Art and Design is split into two components:
– Personal investigation (coursework). Our sixth formers identify an area of particular interest and formulate a personal challenge to investigate. Our sixth formers research, evaluate, analyse and establish coherent and sustainable links between their own artwork and that of historic and contemporary references. Boys also write an extended essay that explores the themes they have chosen to investigate.
– Externally set assignment (exam). An externally set question paper is released in February of Year 13. Our sixth formers produce preparatory studies (research, written analysis, artwork) over eight weeks, culminating in the production of an unaided final piece completed within 15 hours under examination.

What’s next?

The creative industries are a fast growing part of the economy and as diverse as they are fascinating. A Level Art and Design can set boys on a path to many careers: an artist, a graphic designer, a product designer, a design engineer, an industrial designer, an architect, a career in advertising or marketing, or a film maker, to name but a few.

Biology

At Wetherby Senior, our Biology Department aims to capture the imagination of our young people, inspiring them and opening their eyes to future careers as diverse as medicine, biotechnology or agriculture.

We have three well-resourced biology labs that provide flexible environments for both theory and practical work. All our labs are equipped to enable our young people to carry out investigations including dissection, gel electrophoresis and habituation. We also have two knowledgeable full time lab technicians who support the practical aspects of teaching and learning in biology.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

At Wetherby Senior, our Year 7 study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – under one teacher, to emphasise the synoptic nature of the subject.

During Years 7 and 8, we follow the Exploring Science course, designed by the EdExcel exam board to prepare young people for their IGCSE in Year 11. This course is explorative, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our pupils to build on for as long as they study science. Our course provides the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around us.

Within biology, topics include:
– Cells, tissues, organs and systems
– Sexual reproduction in animals
– Muscles and bones
– Ecosystems
– Food and nutrition
– Plants and their reproduction

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – as separate sciences, with specialist teachers for each discipline.

Our course is explorative and builds on knowledge from Key Stage 3, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our young people to build on, for as long as they study science. Our course provides boys with the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around them.

GCSE studies

At Wetherby Senior, all pupils take the Edexcel IGCSE in Year 11, with preparation starting in Year 9. There are two pathways: “Triple Science” or “Double Award Science”. “Triple Science” consists of six papers and a separate grade received for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. “Double Award Science” consists of three papers, with a specification approximately two thirds the size, and an award of two GCSE grades given for the cumulative score across the three sciences.

At A Level

A Level Biology is for those who want to understand how living organisms function and interact, so they can help solve problems of the future.

Through A Level Biology, our sixth formers gain a broad knowledge of biological processes, from the micro to the macro level, and how they relate to each other. Our boys also develop an understanding of scientific methods, including the ability to research, plan and execute scientific investigations.

Our A Level biologists learn a variety of different practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills, as well as gaining an appreciation of how biology contributes to the success of the economy and society.

What’s next?

Biology is a fascinating and demanding subject, and A Level Biology is highly regarded by universities. If pupils are considering a career in: medicine, veterinary science, pharmacology, optometry, dentistry, zoology, sports science, physiotherapy, microbiology or environmental science, then A Level Biology is often a necessary or desirable subject. However, regardless of whether boys are going to study a biology-related degree, they will gain a range of transferable skills through A Level Biology that will prove very useful in any workplace.

Chemistry

At Wetherby Senior, our Chemistry Department aims to increase appreciation of how society makes decisions about scientific issues, and the contribution of chemistry to the success of the economy and society.

We have three well-resourced chemistry labs, since chemistry is a practical subject and the development of practical skills is fundamental to understanding the nature of chemistry. Our boys complete regular practical work independently, as well as in groups, and we also have two knowledgeable full time lab technicians who support the practical aspects of teaching and learning in chemistry.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

At Wetherby Senior, our Year 7 study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – under one teacher, to emphasise the synoptic nature of the subject.

During Years 7 and 8, we follow the Exploring Science course, designed by the EdExcel exam board to prepare young people for their IGCSE in Year 11. This course is explorative, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our pupils to build on for as long as they study science. Our course provides the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around us.

Within chemistry, topics include:
– Mixtures and separation
– Acids and alkalis
– The particle model
– Atoms, elements and compounds
– Combustion
– The periodic table

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – as separate sciences, with specialist teachers for each discipline.

Our course is explorative and builds on knowledge from Key Stage 3, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our young people to build on, for as long as they study science. Our course provides boys with the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around them.

GCSE studies

At Wetherby Senior, all pupils take the Edexcel IGCSE in Year 11, with preparation starting in Year 9. There are two pathways: “Triple Science” or “Double Award Science”. “Triple Science” consists of six papers and a separate grade received for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. “Double Award Science” consists of three papers, with a specification approximately two thirds the size, and an award of two GCSE grades given for the cumulative score across the three sciences.

At A Level

A Level Chemistry provides an opportunity to study the amazing variety of substances that make up our world, as our sixth formers appreciate why they are the way they are, why they behave as they do, and how they can be adapted and used in modern life.

Through A Level Chemistry, our sixth formers explore a body of chemical theories and facts, which enables boys to identify the patterns and themes fundamental to chemistry. A Level Chemistry puts emphasis on the importance of the scientific method, helping our sixth formers to design, carry out and evaluate experiments. Through this, our boys develop chemical knowledge, skills and understanding that teach them to problem-solve in a wider context. In addition, our A Level chemists develop an appreciation for how chemistry has social, industrial, technological, environmental and economic consequences for our world.

What’s next?

A Level Chemistry can complement arts subjects, and is an excellent base for degrees in healthcare (eg medicine, pharmacy and dentistry), or the biological sciences, physics, mathematics, pharmacology and analytical chemistry. It is taken by many law or finance applicants, as the problem-solving skills gained are useful and it shows that a student can cope with difficult concepts. Future career opportunities include the chemical, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries, or areas like forensics, environmental protection, and healthcare.

Classics

Wetherby Senior’s Classics Department aims to foster an enthusiasm for the Classical world – the study of the language, literature, culture and society of the Greek and Roman worlds.

The influence of the Classical world can be seen today in all manner of ways, from the relationship between Greek and Latin, and modern foreign languages to building structures like football stadiums and how they relate to Roman amphitheatres, and even with phrases that have entered the English language, such as “Achilles’ heel”!

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7, Wetherby Senior’s Classic Department provides pupils with a broad understanding of the culture and history of the Classical world, as well as a chance to gain a solid foundation in Latin. For our pupils who have studied Latin previously, this will be an opportunity to consolidate their prior knowledge, as well as challenge themselves by carrying out English into Latin translations.

In our Lower School, another key aim is to enable pupils to understand the impact of the Classical world on modern society. So, although the primary focus is the Romans, our Classics Department also covers elements of the Greek world, like mythology.

At Wetherby Senior, we follow Book I of the Cambridge Latin Course, which takes the city of Pompeii as its setting. The linguistic side of the course covers important grammar like the nominative and accusative cases, plus the present, imperfect and perfect tenses. Alongside this, our pupils study cultural topics like Roman housing, dinner parties, theatre, and slavery.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9, our Classics Department helps pupils build upon their previous linguistic and cultural knowledge of the Roman world. Our boys extend their knowledge and understanding of a variety of grammatical points and begin to translate longer passages from Latin into English. This ensures those who wish to take GCSE Latin are prepared for this further study.

In addition, our Department ensures pupils gain an awareness of the impact the ancient world has had on modern society, and that all pupils continue to develop their enthusiasm for the Classical world, regardless of whether their interests lies in the language or the civilisation side of the subject.

At Wetherby Senior, we follow the Cambridge Latin Course in Year 9, which has Roman Britain and Egypt as its settings. More complex grammatical points, such as relative clauses and present participles, will be covered. Alongside this, pupils study cultural topics which include the influence Rome had on Britain, Boudica’s revolt, and the city of Alexandria.

GCSE studies

During their GCSE years at Wetherby Senior, pupils develop an awareness of the continuing influence of the Classical world and of the similarities and differences between the Classical and modern worlds. Our pupils acquire, through studying a range of written and visual sources, knowledge and understanding of both Greek and Roman societies, and develop their analytical and evaluative skills. They are also required to make informed, personal responses to the ancient source material which they study.

Through GCSE Classical Civilization, pupils study a mixture of mythological and historical topics, such as the Olympian gods, Hercules’ twelve labours, death and the underworld, and Roman gladiators. As a result of the skills required for this subject, our boys enhance their ability to properly structure an essay, as well as how to effectively take notes. This complement studies in other subjects, such as English and history.

At A Level

A Level Latin offers an insight into one of the greatest ancient civilisations of the western world. Not only do Wetherby Senior’s sixth formers continue to develop their linguistic skills, they will also use these skills to read and analyse some of the finest pieces of literature written. Such texts are wonderful to read in themselves but it is very gratifying to read them in the original language, knowing over 2,000 years separates you from the author.

Through A Level Latin, our sixth formers further enhance their knowledge of grammatical structures, so they can read unabridged versions of Latin texts by authors like Livy and Ovid. Our boys develop analytical and essay writing skills, as we study prose and verse literature in depth. In addition, through this study of literature, our sixth formers learn about the historical context of the end of the Roman Republic and early imperial Rome.

What’s next?

A highly academic subject, Latin is very well regarded by universities and employers, with Latin scholars respected for their wide variety of skills – a highly developed sense of logic, the ability to appreciate and critically analyse literature, and the ability to form clear and persuasive arguments. With such skills, those who have studied Latin can find themselves in diverse career fields, ranging from the civil service to accountancy, and from law or business to the media.

Computer Science

Wetherby Senior’s Computer Science Department gives our pupils the skills and mindset to not only consume data, but to actively program computers and understand how today’s computers function.

As a subject, computer science overlaps with mathematics on thinking skills and logic, and supports art through the use of computer drawing and modelling, as well as the IT skills needed for efficient presentations. Indeed, a study of computing goes well with any subject: combine it with languages, and you can build deep machine learning or combine it with biology and you can make the robots of tomorrow!

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7 at Wetherby Senior, our Computer Science Department introduces various MS Office productivity techniques, including collaborative working, data modelling with Excel, advanced PowerPoint (animation, vector graphics, custom themes and video capture), MS Forms, and Sway.

Our pupils are taught digital literacy and professional presentation skills, then we move to video and audio editing, giving each boy the skills to be a YouTube star!

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

At Wetherby Senior, our Year 9 curriculum is designed to provide an overview of computer science and to allow our boys to make an informed choice as to whether to choose this subject at GCSE. For those with a talent for the subject, it may be possible to study A Level Computer Science in our Sixth Form.

GCSE studies

For GCSE Computer Science, the emphasis is on analytical abilities, algorithms and computer logic, coding and understanding of technical and legal aspects of high technology. Our pupils sit two papers with content split between knowing how a computer works (Paper 1) and solving problems with a computer (Paper 2).

What’s next?

Knowledge and understanding of computer science is highly regarded by both universities and employers.

Drama

At Wetherby Senior, all our pupils study drama until Year 9, when they have the option of furthering their development at GCSE level.

At our School’s Marylebone Lane site, we have two large drama studio spaces and access to a professional lighting rig and sound system. We also provide opportunities for our boys to work with professional set designers, costume designers and lighting designers, often from West End productions, as these industry experts are hired each year to support our shows. Our Drama Department is proud to offer three large scale production each year – Upper School, Lower School and Trib Drama – meaning all at Wetherby Senior can get involved, both on- and off-stage.

Our Drama Department also makes further use of our central London location by undertaking several trips every term to see fantastic plays and musicals at London’s top theatres.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7, our Drama Department aims to give a thorough foundation on the wide-ranging and important aspects of the subject. Our boys build key teamwork skills, learn how to use their bodies and voice effectively in performance, and learn to perform with a script.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

At Wetherby Senior, the aim of our Year 9 course is to develop individual performance skills and confidence, as well as increase skills in analysing and devising dramatic work.

During the Autumn Term of Year 9, our pupils recap the importance of teamwork, drama games, and key skills needed for performance. This is followed by a project devising an issues-based piece on war. Our term ends on a lighter note, with work on individual comedy scenes.

During the Spring Term of Year 9, our Drama Department focuses on an exploration project from the GCSE devising module, ending with textual analysis and creation of scenes based on Willy Russell’s play Blood Brothers. This is a set text at GCSE, so helps our boys prepare for this option.

During the Summer Term of Year 9, our boys study Anthony Neilson’s The Lying Kind and bring Shakespeare to life, staging scenes from Macbeth.

GCSE studies

The AQA GCSE in Drama is an exciting course which is both highly academic (respected by universities) and a creative chance to explore acting at a more challenging level. It provides opportunities to attend live theatre performances and develop theatrical skills as both actors and audience members.

At Wetherby Senior, we ensure that studying drama develops communication skills, leadership, creativity and independence – all key skills for the world of work and study. In addition, improving confidence through public speaking will enhance our boys’ success in other areas of the curriculum.

GCSE Drama gives our pupils the chance to:
– Write their own plays
– Act in scripted plays
– Attend and review professional plays

Through GCSE Drama at Wetherby Senior, our pupils will explore play texts as directors, actors and designers, and will study scripts and perform a play in both acting and written examinations.

At A Level

A Level Drama is a vastly enjoyable course that focuses on creativity, academic reading, teamwork and performing, as our sixth formers write their own plays, act in plays, and review professional productions.

A Level Drama involves writing plays, acting, essay writing and performance analysis, so our sixth formers develop exemplary skills in leadership, management, creativity and collaboration. Alongside studio and classroom lessons, our Drama Department collaborates with theatre companies to master playwriting skills and establish advanced theatrical skills.

What’s next?

Top universities appreciate that A Level Drama applicants have strong skills in literature, leadership and public speaking, yet it is also an excellent option if a boy wishes to take a balanced array of subjects. It also looks good on university applications when taken alongside subjects that require different skills, since it demonstrates well-roundedness as a scholar.

Do not think only potential actors should study A Level Drama! As workplaces highly value creative thinking and entrepreneurial skills, A Level Drama is appreciated by a diverse range of employers. Those who have studied A Level Drama can go into any career involving leadership, literature and creativity, which can range from being a lawyer, a journalist or a business manager, to careers in the arts, publishing, advertising or politics.

Economics and Business

Wetherby Senior’s Department of Business and Economics offers A Level Business and A Level Economics within our Sixth Form.

Our Department is committed to cultivating a deep understanding of business and economics, and an appreciation of how these subjects interact with related disciplines and wider social issues. Through engaging teaching, our staff aim to foster a passion for the subject and help our sixth formers develop into mature, independent learners who engage with their subject at the deepest level.

A Level Business

Business is a live subject so, through A Level Business, our sixth formers are required to apply knowledge to current business situations. A Level Business is also a written subject, allowing our sixth formers to develop strong analysis and evaluation skills, as well as develop the ability to interpret and analyse quantitative data.

At A Level Economics

Economics is a quantitative social science so, through A Level Economics, our sixth formers learn how to analyse and interpret quantitative data. However, as A Level Economics is primarily a written subject, not a mathematical one, there is a strong emphasis on the quality of written communication, thus developing written analysis and evaluative skills.

As A Level Economics is a live subject, our sixth formers will also deepen their knowledge and understanding of current affairs. They may discuss topics like:
– What caused the global economy to crash in 2008?
– How will the rise of AI affect your future?
– How bad for the UK is 9% inflation?
– Why has the cost of living increased so much?
– Is the NHS the best way to provide healthcare for the UK?
– Is inequality growing and should we care?
By studying A Level Economics at Wetherby Senior, our sixth formers gain the tools to tackle these questions, as well as examine the questions that will define our current and future generations.

What’s next?

For A Level Business, there are a wide range of business-related university degree options, including joint honours with another subject, available. These are particularly valuable in the modern business world as they include an international dimension in the form of an internship abroad. However, the theory taught in A Level Business is useful in all walks of life, as most of us work as employees, while an understanding of how businesses operate is always helpful in assessing the prospects of particular firms, and can aid career planning.

A Level Economics develops both quantitative and written skills, preparing our young people for a broad range of university degrees. It can lead to a wide range of university options, since it is a common subject in joint honours courses with mathematics, politics, management, a language or finance. Graduates in economics rank top or near the top of charts for average earnings and employment rates in comparison to other degree courses.

 

English

Wetherby Senior’s English Department is made up of subject specialists who contribute different expertise and knowledge. Our English Department strives to nurture a love of literature and encourages our boys to enjoy producing a range of writing, including narrative, descriptive, persuasive, informative, and analytical pieces.

In addition to ensuring that pupils explore and closely analyse prose, poetry and drama texts, from a variety of cultural and historical backgrounds, our English Department also use literature as a springboard for our boys to express themselves personally, with class discussions, written responses, and creative work.

Throughout their time at Wetherby Senior, our pupils enter national writing competitions and we make the most of our central London location by enjoying various plays performed at London’s many theatres.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7, our English Department ensures boys read an interesting range of texts in lesson, including detective fiction, an introduction to Shakespeare’s writing, a collection of poetry, and an award-winning young adult text. Our boys hone their skills of analysis, whilst exploring these texts, and learn how to produce analytical essays.

In tandem, our pupils complete writing tasks to help expand their imagination and to consolidate written accuracy. This also enables development of vocabulary and builds an ambitious use of spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Our Year 7 pupils also complete a non-fiction unit which focuses on their research, marketing, team work, and speaking and listening skills, as they create an advert for a chosen product, which they then pitch to their year group.

Each fortnight, our pupils enjoy a library lesson, where books are recommended by our School Librarian, and they can take out and return books. This also offers the class teacher a chance to discuss, with each pupil, more about the book that they are reading.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9, our English Departments gets boys to read an interesting range of fiction texts, including a Dystopian novel, a Shakespeare tragedy or history play, a collection of poetry, and an introduction to American literature. Our pupils hone their skills of analysis whilst exploring these texts, and develop the essay writing skills required at GCSE.

Alongside this exploration of texts, our boys continue to complete writing tasks to expand their imaginations and consolidate written accuracy, and complete a non-fiction unit which focuses on the skills of rhetoric and persuasion, leading to a final performance of their own speech on their chosen topic.

GCSE studies

Over the two years of GCSE study at Wetherby SEnior, our pupils will be taught a range of critical skills in a variety of interesting ways.

Through the study of an anthology of fifteen poems from a range of cultures and time periods, a play and a novel, our boys will become adept at understanding the meaning of a range of texts, identifying relevant information, arriving at original inferences, being able to analyse the effects of language, structure and form in insightful ways, and to respond personally to a text.

By further consolidating skills of written accuracy and variety taught in English Language, through English Literature, our boys will hone their essay writing skills. They will learn how to write analytically and in a consistently engaging and academic style.

Throughout their GCSE years at Wetherby Senior, our boys will participate in group work and will present individually to class.

Our GCSE course culminates in three written exams at the end of Year 11:
– Paper 1: Poetry and Prose
– Paper 2: Drama
– Paper 3: The Unseen (prose extract or poem)

At A Level

The OCR A Level English Literature course at Wetherby Senior can explore: Shakespeare (eg Hamlet); Drama and Poetry Pre-1900 (eg Ibsen’s A Doll’s House and Milton’s Paradise Lost); and Comparative and Contextual Study of a Genre: American Literature, The Gothic, Dystopia, The Immigrant Experience (here, our sixth formers select one of these genres and independently explore a range of texts within it, complementing a class set text).

Within A Level English Literature, there are three components of coursework which are all based on texts of each sixth former’s choosing, including a piece of creative writing, a close reading of a passage, and a comparative essay.

What’s next?

A Level English Literature is a highly-respected qualification and, regardless of what each boy wants to study after school, universities will appreciate the skills of analysis, creativity and communication developed through this course. Whether a sixth former chooses to study A Level English Literature alongside other essay-based subjects (like A Level History, Economics or Geography), or as a way to complement further study of A Level Mathematics or, indeed, as an option to sit alongside creative subjects (like A Level Art or Drama), it will stand each sixth former in excellent stead for the two years of our Sixth Form and beyond.

Geography

Geography is an exciting, forward-thinking subject and could not be more relevant in today’s world.

Wetherby Senior’s Geography Department aims to broaden knowledge of the world around us. By exploring the complexities of our human and physical world, and the interactions between them, our pupils gain a greater understanding of the global issues facing current and future generations. Geographers are at the forefront of solving local and global issues, such as the spread of disease, food and energy security, causes and consequences of migration and the impacts of global warming. However, the study of geography also provides key analytical, numerical and literacy skills, and we aim to develop skills of higher level thinking, problem solving and decision-making, in order to encourage our young people to be curious global citizens.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7, our pupils start developing the important map skills that form the foundation of our subject. We then progress to studying a range of topics including: the increasing threats on our fragile polar biome, the uses and changing characteristics of UK rivers, and the causes, impacts and management of major tectonic hazards. Throughout these topics, our aim is to develop skills of higher level thinking, problem solving and decision-making, which we encourage through enquiry-based learning and thoughtful debate. Our pupils are also given an opportunity to create independent research projects that focus on developing curious geographers.

Each term, our boys are expected to read a book chosen by our Geography Department to broaden their knowledge beyond the classroom. Discussion around this book takes place at an optional termly book club meeting, as well as in lessons. Our Department provides reading and podcast lists at the beginning of the year, which help our boys further their understanding of the subject. Our new Year 7 can also take part in our Lower School essay competition, where they develop their knowledge on a current issue.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9, our pupils begin by studying our new topic on Africa. This aims to tackle misconceptions about this diverse continent and celebrate the many economic, social and environmental success stories from a variety of countries. Our boys will go on to study economic development, ending by looking, in detail, at a case study of tourism in Bali.

Throughout these topics, our Department’s aim is to develop skills of higher level thinking, problem solving and decision-making. These are encouraged through enquiry-based learning and thoughtful debate. Our pupils then begin studying some of the content for GCSE, which allows our boys to explore both physical and human themes, and investigates the link between them through the use of case studies from around the world. Topics covered in Year 9 aim to introduce pupils to the current issues facing tropical rainforests and cold environments, as well exploring the causes, impacts and mitigation strategies surrounding climate change.

GCSE studies

At Wetherby Senior, we follow the AQA specification, which offers pupils the range of knowledge, understanding and skills to become well rounded geographers and proves an excellent foundation if boys decide to pursue the subject beyond GCSE.

Our GCSE course is based on a balanced framework of physical and human geography. It allows our pupils to investigate the link between the two themes, and approach and examine the battles between the man-made and natural worlds. The course covers the following topics: Natural Hazards, Tropical Rainforests, Cold Environments, Rivers, Coasts, Urban Challenges, Economic World and Resources Management. Within these topics, our pupils will study key theories through case studies. They also cover a range of geographical skills through fieldwork and will attend two field trips to Brighton and in London.

At A Level

Our sixth formers studying A Level Geography are numerate, literate, and good team workers. Our boys develop a knowledge of social, economic and physical processes, and are able to plan, research, develop and test hypotheses, and write reports. Our geographers also learn to think analytically and critically, and develop valuable computer skills.

Within our Sixth Form, our boys practice a variety of fieldwork skills via the range of trips we offer, which have included Greece, the Azores, Italy and Croatia.

What’s next?

Not only is A Level Geography a vital subject in its own right, it is also unique in providing a bridge between the sciences and the arts. A Level geographers go on to read a huge range of subjects at university, from medicine to law and engineering to English. Indeed, many science degrees receognise and include A Level Geography as a science, and it can be a useful alternative to traditional sciences, like chemistry or physics. In addition, the broad range of skills learnt through A Level Geography makes our alumni highly employable in practically every career field.

History

Wetherby Senior’s History Department aims to inspire a lifelong love of history in our pupils. We encourage all pupils to strive for excellence within the discipline and we deliver a curriculum that reflects both the evolution of the discipline and what we deem to be most relevant for our young people.

History is the ultimate multidisciplinary subject. Should a historian wish to understand a particular topic, they will need a working knowledge of a whole array of other disciplines that can range from medicine, climatology and physics to geology, history of art and literature, not to mention languages. Serious historians have to master a complex factual brief and then devise a convincing argument using rigorous empirical methods.

The transferable nature of these skills can explain why historians are to be found in leadership roles across the world. History teaches pupils that the story of humanity is chaotic and messy, it trains them to accept the unpredictability of events, equips them with a powerful sense of perspective and trains them to make judgements based on the available evidence. In short, history is an essential part of every child’s preparation for life.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils study the highlights of Medieval Britain, like the Norman Conquest, kingship, the Crusades, the Peasants’ Revolt, and the Black Death. This is followed by an indepth study on the early Islamic world, focusing on the rise of Muhammad up to c. 750 AD. During the summer, we look at the history of immigration to Britain, tracing it from the Beaker Folk to the present day.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils study the British Empire and how its legacy has been interpreted, Victorian Britain and the social impact of the Industrial Revolution, the two World Wars and how technology developed over the course of the conflicts, the Holocaust, and decolonisation. There is a strong international flavour to all our classes.

GCSE studies

For GCSE History, our boys study:
– International Relations: The changing international order 1918-2001.
– Germany 1925-1955: The People and State.
– Power Monarchy and Democracy in Britain c.1000-2014.
– The English Reformation c.1520-1550.
– Castles: Form and Function c.1000-1750: A study of the historical environment.

At A Level

For A Level History, our boys study:
– British Period Study and Enquiry (Britain 1930-97 with an enquiry of Churchill 1930-51)
– Non-British Period Study (American Revolution 1740-96)
– Thematic Study and Historical Interpretations (Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992)
– Topic-based Essay (3,000-4,000 word independent study)

What’s next?

History remains a rigorous and well respected academic discipline, since it places a firm emphasis on the construction of well reasoned arguments and interpretations, based upon carefully researched evidence from a wide array of sources and disciplines. As such, it is a valuable subject for all kinds of university degrees and careers.

Aside from continuing with the subject itself, A Level historians are equipped to study courses like law, economics, geography and English, or more scientific degrees like physics and medicine, where A Level History is seen as a good way to add breadth to your skills and interests.

In career terms, the perspective and understanding gained from the study of A Level History is almost custom made to help any young person aspire to be a leader of the future.

Maths

Wetherby Senior’s Mathematics Department aims to instil all our boys with a sense of awe and wonder at mathematics, through investigations, project work and cross-curricular activities. By providing excellent teaching, supported by fantastic resources, we help our pupils attain high levels of academic achievement.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

At Wetherby Senior, our maths curriculum is traditional and academically rigorous, making effective use of technology to ensure teaching and learning is remains dynamic.

In Years 7 and 8, our pupils complete the KS3 (Years 7-9) National Curriculum. This covers a broad range of topics (including algebra, number, shape and space, data handling, and probability) at an appropriate level, while providing an excellent foundation to IGCSE studies in Years 9 to 11.

Covering the KS3 National Curriculum in two years, rather than three, provides pace and challenge. However, our scheme of work also includes time for our boys to enjoy investigations, field trips and projects that take our studies beyond the National Curriculum. For example, in Year 8, we visit Bletchley Park to learn about the importance and impact of mathematicians, like Alan Turing, on World War Two.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

At Wetherby Senior, our Year 9 scheme of work is based on the IGCSE specification and designed to capture all the key areas in mathematics, across number and algebra, shape, space and measures, and handling data.

As our Year 9 boys will be coming from a range of backgrounds, our scheme of work will ensure that the foundations are covered, and the curriculum is broad. It is, however, inevitable that boys will have studied many topics before, at some stage, so extension material is inherent in our planning.

Our pupils continue this curriculum into Year 10. Our accelerated pace allows us to complete all the IGCSE Higher Tier content by the end of Year 10.

GCSE studies

All Wetherby Senior pupils in Key Stage 4 are required to study Mathematics, which is taught for seven periods per fortnight.

During Year 9, pupils have already learnt the foundations of the content in the IGCSE. In Year 10, pupils are taught the remaining higher level topics of the IGCSE, which allows us to consolidate and revise during Year 11.

Over the two years, our pupils will develop knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques to become confident problem solvers. The content is split into four main areas:
– Algebra
– Number
– Geometry
– Probability and statistics

In addition, we offer IGCSE Further Mathematics, which is a unique qualification designed to stretch and challenge high achieving mathematicians who we expect to achieve the top grade in IGCSE Mathematics. For this reason, at the end of Year 10, only a small group of pupils will be selected to study Further Mathematics in Year 11. The content of the course is learnt at a fast pace and six out of their seven Maths lessons a fortnight are devoted to Further Maths so that all content can be covered in our Autumn Term. This allows those pupils to then split their remaining classroom time equally between revision of both Maths and Further Maths in the final two terms.

At A Level

Within our Sixth Form, we offer A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics. A Level Further Mathematics is aimed at those who enjoys mathematics, as it provides a challenge and a chance to explore new and/or more sophisticated mathematical concepts. As well as being highly regarded by universities, those who take A Level Further Mathematics often find that the additional time spent studying mathematics boosts their marks in A Level Mathematics.

For A Level Mathematics, our sixth formers study pure mathematics and statistics. Through solving problems, our boys develop resilience and be able to think creatively and strategically. The writing of structured solutions, proof and justification of results also helps them to formulate reasoned arguments. Importantly, our sixth formers build excellent numeracy skills, plus the ability to process and interpret data.

For A Level Further Mathematics, our sixth formers spend three quarters of the course on further pure mathematics and the remainder on decision mathematics. A Level Further Mathematics also introduces new topics, like matrices and complex numbers, that are vital in many STEM degrees.

What’s next?

While the mathematical skills learnt in A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics are of great benefit to other subjects (like physics, chemistry, biology, computing, geography, psychology, economics and business studies), both are well-respected by employers and are “facilitating” subjects for higher education. For many university courses, it is important to have strong mathematics skills, while most science, technology, engineering and mathematics degrees require A Level Mathematics.

Modern Foreign Languages

At Wetherby Senior, our Modern Foreign Languages Department aims to foster a love of languages and an understanding of the importance of language learning in our increasingly globalised society. We offer boys the opportunity to choose from three main languages: French, German and Spanish.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7, our boys study two languages from French, German and Spanish. We provide a broad education in grammatical concepts, cultural knowledge, and communication skills, and provide our young people with a solid foundation for the language/languages they choose at GCSE.

Within our Department, classes are reliant upon speaking practice and building confidence, meaning our teachers incorporate learning through games, role play, quizzes, raps etc. We ensure our pupils gain experience in all four skill areas and encourage boys to develop these skills throughout the year. As our pupils continue with language study in Years 8 and 9, we introduce more complex linguistic structures and grammar/vocabulary, thus preparing our young people for the challenges of their IGCSE course.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

At Wetherby Senior, boys in Year 9 continue their study of two languages: French, German, Spanish and Latin. At GCSE level (Years 10 and 11) all boys must study at least one modern language.

Online resources, including Active Teach/Active Learn, are often used in class to ensure lessons are dynamic and to prepare our young people for further study. Our language laboratory enables pupils to work more independently on a greater variety of listening and multi-media tasks. All groups have at least one lesson in the language laboratory per fortnight.

GCSE studies

At Wetherby Senior, all pupils in Key Stage 4 are required to study at least one language; chosen from French, German and Spanish. Pupils sit three separate exams in Listening, Reading and Writing, and Speaking.

Our boys will be expected to communicate formally and informally in a range of contexts, and to understand a wide range of texts and styles. The aim of the qualification is to test their language competence through realistic and contextualised tasks based on authentic texts.

At A Level

For our A Level language options, sixth formers will be exposed to a wider range of linguistic skills, including essay writing, debating and translation. As part of their oral exam, each boy will be required to give a presentation on a subject of their choice that they will have researched, allowing them to pursue something which personally interests them, whilst gaining independent research skills. Within each A Level, our boys will learn to use language to discuss concepts, rather than just facts.

What’s next?

As well as complementing other A Level subjects, an A Level in a modern foreign language is well respected by universities and can lead to an exciting range of future careers around the globe.

Music

The aim of Wetherby Senior’s Music Department is that all pupils have the opportunity to develop their full potential as musicians during their time at our School, and to develop a love of music – whether classical, jazz, rock or pop.

Our Music Department delivers a wide range of activities and staff are complemented by visiting teachers from prestigious institutions, like the Royal Academy. Outside the classroom, our School also has many classical ensembles, orchestras, choirs, wind and jazz bands that boys can join.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

At Wetherby Senior, all in Year 7 are taught a brass or string instrument and tuition is also available in a number of different instruments.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

At Wetherby Senior, the focus of our Year 9 curriculum is music technology and music production. These units combine the rigorous study of music theory with practical music making.
Our boys use Logic Pro extensively to produce music scores for films and study a range of source materials, from classics by Bernard Hermann and Ennio Morricone to more modern pieces by John Williams, Hans Zimmer and Danny Elfman.

Our pupils also learn how to use a synchronise sound and picture to create an enjoyable and descriptive listening experience. Boys can use our music computer suite during break and lunch times to work on their lesson task.

GCSE studies

For GCSE Music, pupils are expected to perform at Grade 5 level and should be in at least one of our School’s main ensembles.

Over the two years, ourpupils will be taught a range of critical skills in a variety of interesting ways:
– Composing: Pupils are expected to compose two pieces of music over two years. This is worth 30% of the final award
– Appraising: Throughout the course, our pupils will examine four areas of study, each containing two set works. This allows boys to learn in-depth appraising skills in preparation for their assessments. This is worth 40% of the final award
– Performing: In Year 11, our pupils will perform a solo item and an ensemble item. This is recorded and makes up 30% of the final award

Philosophy

At Wetherby Senior, all boys study philosophy until Year 11. Although they do not take a GCSE exam, it does remain an option for A Level. We believe that philosophy is an integral part of the curriculum and one that can enrich and enhance a boy’s overall educational experience.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils follow a course that focuses on ‘Philosophy and the Self’. They begin by learning about personal identity, which leads to thinking about what makes us human. We then consider if the rise of artificial intelligence will, one day, lead to something other than humans having consciousness!

Once our Year 7 have worked out an understanding of what it means to be a human, we then examine some of the ways that these ‘selves’ communicate and interact with each other. This is done by looking at moral philosophy and the philosophy of language.

Towards the end of Year 7, we turn our attention to a community of ‘selves’ by spending time thinking about some of the notable people who have lived in London.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils follow a course that focuses on ‘Philosophy and Society’ and begin by reflecting on what human nature is really like. We focus on Animal Farm as a set text to explore some of the key themes within political philosophy. Pupils read this in the first term, so there is no need to read it before arriving at Wetherby Senior.

This study leads us to think about areas like human rights, the future of society, and various political ideologies. We also explore dystopic visions of society and think about how these ideas are represented in film, music, literature, and art.

GCSE studies

All pupils in Key Stage 4 at Wetherby Senior study philosophy as a non-examined subject. This continues building upon all that Wetherby Senior pupils have studied in the first three years of our School, although those who joined in Year 9 will not be disadvantaged. All pupils study the subject for one hour a week in both Year 10 and 11.

Our course covers a wide range of philosophical themes and ideas. Some of the areas touch upon topics that are repeated in the AQA Philosophy A Level, so the course gives an ideal introduction for any pupils considering future academic study of the subject. Of course, many of the skills that are learnt in this subject will continue to help pupils in other areas of study.

In Year 10, pupils look at the themes of Free Will and Determinism, and Ethics.

In Year 11, pupils look at the themes of Appearance and Reality, and then reflect on all they have studied by considering who they might view as being the greatest philosopher of all time.

At A Level

A Level Philosophy is stimulating, challenging and thought-provoking. It is an essay-based subject requiring a certain amount of intellectual curiosity and a willingness to reflect on the big questions of life. While a logical mind is a good starting point, you will also develop a range of transferable skills that are applicable far beyond the study of philosophy. For the study of A Level Philosophy, there are no pre-requisites but a willingness to read, write, research and discuss is expected.

What’s next?

Traditionally speaking, A Level Philosophy has been viewed as excellent for those thinking of studying subjects like law or politics at university and thinking of a future career in these fields. However, it is becoming increasingly popular in the business sector.

Fundamentally, A Level Philosophy is not only enjoyable and highly regarded on its own, it also enhances studies in other areas, including science or mathematics, as well as humanities.

Physical Education

Sport is an important part of boys’ development and wellbeing, making it a compulsory activity for all years (from Year 7 to 13) at Wetherby Senior.

Through participation in sport, our pupils develop character, build friendships, and stay healthy, both physically and mentally. The lessons learned and relationships forged through sport hold our boys in good stead to make meaningful contributions to society.

At Wetherby Senior, our games lessons take place at Ealing Trailfinders, as well as at our Marylebone Lane building, using our state-of-the-art spin room, fully-equipped gym, and our fantastic yoga and boxercise studio.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

In Year 7 at Wetherby Senior, our boys have one PE lesson on a Friday and one games lesson on a Monday each week, meaning they must wear games kit on those days.

In games, football is our core sport in the Autumn term, with rugby in our Spring Term, and cricket, tennis and athletics in our Summer Term. In PE, each pupils have a half-term of the following: youth athletic development, spin, yoga and wellbeing, striking and fielding, invasion games, and athletics.

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our boys have one PE lesson on a Thursday and one games lesson on a Tuesday each week.

In games, football and rugby are the core sports in our Autumn and Spring Terms, and cricket, tennis and athletics in our Summer Term. In PE, each pupil will have a half-term of the following: youth athletic development, spin, yoga and wellbeing, boxercise, table tennis, and swimming.

GCSE studies

GCSE Physical Education has proven to be a popular option amongst Wetherby Senior pupils.

Over the two years of study, our pupils are taught a range of content from six units. In addition, they complete four sections of Non-Exam Assessment (NEA). These consist of three practical sports and a piece of coursework.

Physics

Science is about curiosity and Wetherby Senior’s Physics Department aims to develop this natural curiosity. Physics as a subject aims at nothing less than a complete description of the world from the smallest constituents of matter to the large-scale structure of the Universe. Studying physics develops scientific literacy and gives our young people highly transferable skills that will be useful throughout their lives, such as thr ability to model novel situations, to think in an analytical, logical manner, and to plan an experiment to investigate a question.

We have three well-resourced physics labs and two knowledgeable full time lab technicians who support the practical aspects of teaching and learning in our School’s Physics Department.

Teaching and learning in our Lower School

At Wetherby Senior, our Year 7 study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – under one teacher, to emphasise the synoptic nature of the subject.

During Years 7 and 8, we follow the Exploring Science course, designed by the EdExcel exam board to prepare young people for their IGCSE in Year 11. This course is explorative, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our pupils to build on for as long as they study science. Our course provides the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around us.

Within physics, topics include:
– Energy changes
– Energy resources and conservation
– Forces and motion
– Density, mass and weight
– Effects of forces
– States of matter

Teaching and learning in our Middle School

In Year 9 at Wetherby Senior, our pupils study the three sciences – biology, chemistry and physics – as separate sciences, with specialist teachers for each discipline.

Our course is explorative and builds on knowledge from Key Stage 3, giving a tangible introduction to the key ideas that act as the foundations for our young people to build on, for as long as they study science. Our course provides boys with the skills needed to safely plan and carry out a practical activity, to display and analyse data, and to have a greater understanding of what drives both the natural and technological world around them.

GCSE studies

At Wetherby Senior, all pupils take the Edexcel IGCSE in Year 11, with preparation starting in Year 9. There are two pathways: “Triple Science” or “Double Award Science”. “Triple Science” consists of six papers and a separate grade received for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. “Double Award Science” consists of three papers, with a specification approximately two thirds the size, and an award of two GCSE grades given for the cumulative score across the three sciences.

At A Level

Through A Level Physics, Wetherby Senior’s sixth formers become creative, analytical thinkers, good at applying their knowledge and understanding to novel situations in order to solve problems. Through theoretical and practical work, our boys learn the value of rigour, independence, collaboration, risk-taking, effective communication and asking good questions.

What’s next?

For universities, A Level Physics is highly regarded and can lead to studies in other sciences or in financial or medical disciplines. Graduates in physics are extremely employable and, in a recent report published by Russell Group universities, A Level Physics was listed as one of the top three most valuable ‘facilitating subjects’, showing its flexibility, popularity, and huge potential.

Physicists in the past have split the atom, landed on the moon and invented the World Wide Web. Physicists in the future will help solve the problems of climate change, the risks of an asteroid strike, and the continued exploration of our solar system.

Politics

Politics has an enormous impact on our lives and the study of politics will equip young people with the knowledge and skills to play a full part in the political process.

By studying government and politics at Wetherby Senior, our boys gain a strong understanding of how power is exercised in this country and internationally. As it is a multidisciplinary subject, our lessons include debate, discussion and argument.  For our young people, the ability to look at different perspectives and critically analyse them is of fundamental importance, and develops important skills useful for future study and employment.

At A Level

A Level Government and Politics is an exciting and intellectually challenging subject with an emphasis on debate, discussion and argument. While the ability to look at different perspectives, and critically analyse them, is of fundamental importance, our sixth formers also develop other important qualities like critical thinking and effective writing skills.

What’s next?

A Level Government and Politics is highly regarded by both universities and employers, due to the critical thinking skills developed and due to its analytical and discursive nature. It fits well with a variety of other subject areas, including economics, history and English. Furthermore, it provides an excellent academic foundation for careers in the media, teaching, law, social work, the civil service, local government, and research.


Wetherby Senior sixth formers have been snapping around London, taking photos of what our capital city means to them.

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1. Campus
100 Marylebone Lane,
London W1U 2QU
2. Campus
Hannah House, 13-16 Manchester Street,
London W1U 4DJ
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