ACADEMIC LIFE : The Curriculum
The New School offers a distinct, dynamic curriculum which aims to help our pupils to become confident, thoughtful learners, responsible citizens and effective contributors to society and work.
It provides a wide range of studies at all levels. There is a commitment to the principles of choice and personalisation of learning, which ensures that each pupil is given the opportunity to realise their individual talents. We encourage pupils to achieve more than high exam marks by recognising what happens in the community, in the work place, in extra curricular activities and in schemes such as the Duke of Edindurgh’s Award, ASDAN Youth Award and John Muir Award. Emphasis is placed on incorporating the creative and expressive arts into the school day, and space is given to: equine therapy; an INPP improvement programme; car mechanics; swimming, hill walking and skiing. At all stages, the National Curriculum has been adapted to meet the needs of the pupils.
Pupils should: understand technology, the world of work and the environment; learn about their past and engage with present; and be able to share ideas and knowledge with others. Pupils follow a core curriculum which focuses on essential skills that help people through their education, training, work and lives: language and communication; information technology; problem solving; numeracy; and working with others.
In first and second years, pupils follow the 5 –14 Curriculum. The more able can accelerate along an academic path which leads to a combination of Standard Grade and Higher Still courses at Intermediate 1and 2 Level in third, fourth and fifth years. For pupils who struggle with certain aspects of learning an alternative pathway is provided. With this group the focus is on development of key skills and practical abilities through the provision of Access 2 and 3 courses and the ASDAN programmes.
The sixth year curriculum fosters the practical skills, inner resources and independence of thought which pupils need as they approach the adult world. In addition to courses at Intermediate 1 and 2 Level, opportunities are provided for work experience with local employers and voluntary organisations. Vocational courses are provided on a day-release basis at Elmwood and Perth Colleges. This is a valuable experience easing the transition into full-time further education. Our “Skills for Work” programme is complemented by an accredited “life Skills” course and a structured PSE programme.
By the time they leave School, each pupil should have a clear idea of where their gifts lie and a defined path on how to develop them. Equipped with a deeper sense of perspective and possibility, they should be in a position to choose the careers and lives which they find most relevant and worthwhile.
Click here to see the lastest HMIE inpection report for The New School.