The Curriculum

Studies at 13+

Lower School sets usually have about 20 pupils per class. All boys who arrive in Year 9 (Fifth Form) follow a common curriculum; no ill-informed choices have to be made before joining the School. At this stage, subjects studied include:

• English
• Mathematics
• French
• History
• Geography
• Art
• Music
• Divinity
• Classics incorporating Latin and Greek (to allow for a wide range of previous experience of these languages)
• Science (taught as three separate subjects in the Robert Hooke Science Centre)
• Electronics, Design and Information Technology (introductory courses)
• Health Education programme.

GCSE studies

For their next two years in Year 10 (Lower Shell) and Year 11 (Upper Shell), boys prepare for 10 or 11 GCSEs including Mathematics, English Language, English Literature, French and at least two of the three sciences.

Otherwise the system of choice is flexible. It is possible to begin a second Modern Language (German, Spanish and Russian) at this stage. Boys are encouraged to do one or two subjects that have a practical component, choosing from Art, Drama, Electronics, Music and Design Technology. A one-year Information Technology course is also available.

Studies at 16+

A and AS level studies

In the Sixth Form, boys and girls studying at Westminster normally prepare to undertake four A Levels after their GCSE. Some do 3 A Levels and an AS Level and some exceptionally able pupils do more than 4 A Levels. There is great flexibility of choice of subjects and typically pupils are taught in classes of about 12.

During all stages of decisions making, plenty of advice is on offer from teachers, Housemasters and Tutors who will discuss matters with pupils and parents.

General Studies stand alongside the specialist A-Level teaching, including General English and an Options programme that comprises a series of 10-week courses in various subjects from psychology to photography.

Talks and meetings

In addition, the John Locke Society hosts weekly lectures for the entire Upper School. Pupils attend talks by visiting speakers such as politicians, journalists, authors and sports personalities.

Being in the heart of London, the School can provide ready access to such distinguished visitors. This advantage is also usefully utilised by the numerous departmental societies, for example the Camden (History), Ben Jonson (Literary), Harrod (Economics) and Scientific Societies that hold regular meetings.