Our Curriculum
Our Curriculum Vision
At The Buckingham School, our curriculum is built on the firm foundation of our three Core Choices: Respect, Responsibility, and Reflection. These behaviours are not only taught and modelled, but are actively embedded in the way students approach their learning, respond to challenges and interact as members of our school community. They underpin every aspect of curriculum design and delivery, shaping both the learning journey and the outcomes we aspire to achieve.
Our vision is to deliver a curriculum that is inclusive, ambitious, and values-driven – one that champions Success for All by fostering not only strong academic progress but also the development of character, resilience and social conscience. In doing so, we ensure that all our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and personal qualities they need to thrive as valuable, confident contributors to society.
Click here to view The Buckingham Way – Our Choices Diagram
our vision - Key Stage 3
Key Stage 3 – Engaged: Learning with Kindness and Curiosity
In Key Stage 3, we ignite students’ passion for learning through a broad, engaging curriculum that lays strong foundations for future academic and personal success. We foster a love of learning by encouraging students to explore, question, and discover.
Respect is modelled and taught in every lesson, helping students form positive relationships and understand the value of empathy and inclusion.
Students are introduced to Reflection as a key aspect of their learning process – while developing Responsibility for their own progress, behaviour, and impact on others.
Our approach is underpinned by the belief in Success for All, ensuring every learner feels valued, supported and equipped to succeed.
By the end of Key Stage 3, students are curious, respectful learners who are actively engaged and ready to take increasing responsibility for their learning journey.
our vision - KEY STAGE 4
Key Stage 4 – Independent: Taking Responsibility for Learning and Growth
In Key Stage 4, our students begin to shape their own academic pathways and future goals. Through a rich, challenging curriculum, they are supported to become independent, reflective learners who take pride in their learning behaviours and outcomes.
Responsibility is central – students are expected to manage their time, make informed decisions, and have ownership of their progress.
We continue to reinforce Respect, especially as students navigate pressures and prepare for exams and adulthood.
Reflection is embedded across subjects, enabling students to assess their progress, identifying strengths and areas for improvement and adopt strategies accordingly.
Our inclusive ethos ensures that Success for All remains a guiding principle – empowering every student to take ownership of their learning, make independent choices and achieve their full potential, regardless of background or aspiration.
By the end of Key Stage 4, our students are fully immersed in their learning journey, having become independent thinkers and responsible individuals, prepared for the rigour and maturity required for their next steps.
our vision - KEY STAGE 5
Key Stage 5 – Exemplary: Habitually Showing Integrity, Reflection, Responsibility and Respect
Key Stage 5 marks the final stage of our students’ school journey – one where they are challenged to lead by example, inspire and make a positive difference. We encourage students to be exemplary: individuals who act with courage, uphold values, and contribute to a better world.
Respect is reflected not only in personal conduct but in the ability to engage with challenging concepts, diverse viewpoints, and complex social issues with empathy and thoughtfulness.
DELIVERING OUR VISION
Click on the link shown below to read Delivering our Vision document.
Our Curriculum – key STAGE 3
Key Stage 3 Curriculum
The Buckingham School Key Stage 3 curriculum model is broad and balanced with a strong emphasis on Maths, English and Science. Our curriculum aims to prepare students for their KS4 studies but also keeps students at the heart of the curriculum, fostering a love for learning in all subjects. Our Key Stage 3 curriculum runs throughout Years 7-9.
Three-Year Key Stage Three curriculum model on a two-week cycle with 50 1-hour lessons. Comprised as follows:
- English (8 lessons)
- Maths (8 lessons)
- Science (6 lessons) – this will increase to 7 lessons in Year 9
- PE (4 lessons)
- History (2 lessons) – increasing to 3 in Year 8
- Geography (3 lessons) – decreasing to 2 in Year 8
- MFL - French and Spanish (3 French lessons & 3 Spanish lessons)
- Performing Arts (2 lessons)
- Music (1 lesson)
- Computing and ICT (2 lessons)
- Design and Technology (3 lessons)
- Art (2 lessons) Personal Development (2 lessons)
- Philosophy and Ethics (1 lesson)
OUR CURRICULUM - KEY STAGE 4
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
Key Stage 4 Curriculum – Core Studies
The Key Stage 4 curriculum runs throughout Years 10 and 11 and comprises a core curriculum and four option choices. The Key Stage 4 curriculum runs on a two-week cycle with 50 1-hour lessons. The core studies curriculum offer is set for all students. The Buckingham School core offer comprises:
- English Language GCSE (8 lessons split between English Language and English Literature)
- English Literature GCSE
- Mathematics GCSE (7 lessons)
- Science (Separate Sciences Biology, Chemistry and Physics) 3 GCSEs (9 lessons)
- PE for health and fitness (4 lessons)
- Personal Development (PSHE) (1 lesson)
- Philosophy and Ethics (1 lesson)
Tutor time will be used to enhance the key elements of SMSC, Personal Development (PSHE), Philosophy & Ethics, British Values and Citizenship.
Options
Options include a range of GCSE and Vocational qualifications. Vocational qualifications are BTEC Level 2 qualifications that are equivalent to GCSE. BTEC qualifications are more vocationally linked and assessed through a portfolio of evidence, in addition to an external examination. These also include hands-on and practical skills development, alongside theory and classroom learning.
Optional GCSE Subjects
The following GCSE subjects are available through the Options.
- Art GCSE
- Business Studies GCSE
- Computer Science GCSE
- Dance GCSE
- Design & Technology GCSE
- Drama GCSE
- Film Studies GCSE
- Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE
- French GCSE
- Geography GCSE
- History GCSE
- Music GCSE
- PE GCSE
- Photography GCSE
- Psychology GCSE
- Sociology GCSE
- Spanish GCSE
Optional Vocational Subjects
- ASDAN
- Construction BTEC
- Health & Social Care BTEC
- Sport, Fitness & Activity BTEC
The English Baccalaureate
The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is not a qualification in itself. It is awarded to students who have achieved a grade 4 (old grade C) or above in:
Success in Ebacc subjects can lead to taking these subjects Post 16, where they are seen as facilitating subjects. These subjects are highly recognised at top universities, especially those in the Russell Group. For this reason, we have adapted our curriculum models so that more of our students can study these subjects, in addition to still being able to have at least two additional options.
Our curriculum – key stage 5
Key Stage 5 Curriculum
Our Sixth Form has been developed to meet the needs and career aspirations of its students. It is a vibrant hub of interaction and learning, with good study facilities and strong teaching across a broad range of subjects.
We offer a range of academic A Level subjects, as well as vocational BTEC courses, in order to provide our students with the opportunity to study subjects relevant to their career ambitions and which take their learning style preferences into consideration.
We provide individual careers support to ensure all of our students are ready to successfully progress to the next stage of their career journey when they graduate. They will either be guided through the UCAS application process or supported to secure an Apprenticeship opportunity or employment for after they complete Year 13.
Alongside gaining three or more Level 3 qualifications, we are proud of the enrichment opportunities offered to our students and these are very much part of everyday life. We expect our students to work hard and to contribute to the life of the School and Sixth Form community. Our enrichment opportunities have Student Voice and Student Leadership at their heart - both areas in which the School excels. Student Voice in the School is a key factor in helping students to make informed decisions and we believe that every student should have their say.
The combination of enrichment and pastoral programmes ensures we develop well-rounded successful, diverse and talented people.
Click on the link shown here to view the current Key Stage 5 courses.
Careers guidance
Our aim is to prepare our students to go on to further or higher education or skilled employment and be able to apply the skills and knowledge they have gained in School. We pride ourselves in providing a comprehensive programme to all students. This includes aspects of work-related learning, enterprise education, option choices, trips, seminars, as well as opportunities for external providers to meet with students to provide careers and labour market information. Careers guidance is on-going throughout the year and is further enhanced by working with local businesses, colleges and universities.
Students in our Sixth Form are very well supported as they make their applications to University, apply for Higher Level Apprenticeships or other non University post-18 pathways.
We support students by:
- helping students to write effective curriculum vitae and personal statements
- giving students individual careers guidance and advice
- arranging interview training and mock interviews
- attending career specialist workshops
- holding careers seminars and assemblies
- working with business mentors
- encourage Sixth Form students to organise work experiences
- embedding soft skills required for future life into curriculums and lessons across all key stages
- giving support and guidance on UCAS /university application process
- providing guidance regarding different career pathways, including information on apprenticeships
