Our Curriculum at Whalley Range High School

Our aim, through our curriculum is to develop young people who can contribute positively to future communities:

• Who are not disadvantaged by the social context in which they live
• Who have the confidence, resilience and knowledge to stay mentally healthy
• Who have high expectations of self and an ambitious vision for their future
• Who have a work ethic in them achieving, and exceeding, their academic potential
• Who are happy and have a desire to pursue a healthy, active lifestyle
• Who are respectful, tolerant and empathetic towards the values and beliefs of others
• Who are self-aware and know their own strengths through reviewing and evaluating their progress
• Who are capable of making informed decisions and are aware of their rights and responsibilities

Our curriculum is structured around a one-week timetable, with five one-hour lessons each day. Every school day begins with a tutorial session, where each student has a personal tutor who provides academic and personal development support. At Key Stage 3, students receive their full National Curriculum entitlement, ensuring that Key Stage 4 content is not taught early. At Key Stage 4, we offer a wide range of courses that challenge, engage, and raise aspirations.

We have high expectations for all students and create a climate where a love of learning can flourish. Our curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, designed to diminish gaps and reduce educational inequality. It is knowledge-rich and carefully sequenced, with clearly defined endpoints so that students know more and remember more over time. Reading and disciplinary literacy sit at the core of our practice, equipping students with essential skills for learning. We provide tailored support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, including adaptations, interventions, and wrap-around care. Teachers use meaningful assessment to respond and adapt to individual needs.

We are determined to ensure that our students have a curriculum that will diminish the gaps and inequalities that exist within society and that all students can thrive emotionally, socially and academically. Our ‘Whalley Range Experience’ and wider personal development curriculum enables all students to develop their talents and nurture their interests whilst gaining vital cultural capital that will help them succeed in life. Our Values, alongside the British Values, are embedded across school life and taught explicitly through Personal Development Days, PSHRE, and assemblies.

We are committed to preparing students for life beyond their academic studies with us. Our careers provision is aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks, ensuring that all students receive high-quality guidance and opportunities to raise aspirations. This includes employer interactions, independent advice, and curriculum provision that prepares students for their next steps.

We continually review, reflect, and refine our curriculum to meet the needs of our community and maintain excellence.