Rationale and Entitlement
At Cornelius Vermuyden School, our curriculum is designed to inspire, challenge, and empower every student. It reflects our CorneliUS vision and provides all learners with the knowledge, skills, and attributes they need to succeed academically and thrive personally.
Our Rationale
We are committed to providing a broad, balanced, and ambitious curriculum that:
- Encourages academic excellence alongside personal development
- Builds strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and communication
- Prepares students for the next stage of education, training, or employment
- Promotes healthy, active lifestyles and positive mental well-being
- Equips students with the knowledge and values needed to become responsible, respectful, and engaged citizens
Every subject contributes uniquely to our students’ growth, and our curriculum design ensures these contributions are carefully sequenced and thoughtfully delivered to support long-term learning.
Our Entitlement
All students at Cornelius Vermuyden School have access to a rich and inclusive curriculum, tailored to meet national expectations while exceeding them through our distinctive approach.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)
Students follow a wide-ranging programme including:
- Core Subjects: English, Maths, Science
- Humanities: Geography, History
- Languages: French
- Creative and Performing Arts: Art, Music, Drama, Design Technology, Food
- Technology and Computing: ICT, Computer Science
- Personal Development: PSHE, Citizenship, Religious Studies, Physical Education
- Reading: Dedicated weekly Reading lessons (Years 7 and 8)
Lessons per fortnight:
- English, Maths, Science – 6 lessons
- PE, French – 4 lessons
- Geography, History – 3 lessons
- Art, Music, Drama, ICT, Technology, Food, RS, Reading, PSHE – 2 lessons
Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11)
At Key Stage 4, students build on prior knowledge and specialise in subjects aligned with their interests and future goals. All students study:
- Core Subjects: English Language, English Literature, Maths, Combined Science
- Humanities: At least one of Geography or History
- RE and Citizenship: Ongoing core programme
- Physical Education: Core PE lessons
- PSHE: Compulsory programme including personal health and relationships
In addition, students choose from a wide range of academic and vocational options. We offer a flexible approach to options, with timetables designed around student choices rather than fixed blocks.
Lessons per fortnight:
- English, Maths, Science – 8 lessons
- PE – 4 lessons
- PSHE – 2 lessons
- Each option subject (4 total) – 5 lessons each
Beyond the Classroom
Our curriculum is enhanced by a rich programme of extra-curricular activities, assemblies, and tutor time. These experiences help students to develop character, leadership, and the personal skills needed for life beyond school.
