Overview

We aim to provide students with an ambitious, broad ranging and knowledge rich curriculum.  Our students are exceptionally able and we aim to foster in them independent study habits and a strong intellectual curiosity which will prepare them for higher level study.  We endeavour to support our students to leave AGSB not only with the highest levels of attainment, but also as responsible citizens with strong moral values.

It is our aim that students study a broad curriculum for as long as possible through their curricular and extracurricular pursuits. This is because each subject discipline offers students a unique and important perspective from which to study the world. The teachers at AGSB are experts in their respective fields and the curriculum in each subject has been carefully designed and sequenced to support students to understand the subject disciplines in ever more complex ways.   

At AGSB we have developed an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning.  Our teaching is based on the most up to date research about how brains work and how students learn most effectively.  More information about this can be found on the link titled ‘Effective Teaching at AGSB’ on this webpage.  Our research about effective teaching and learning has influenced the design of the curriculum at whole-school and subject level.  We know that for learning to be secure, students must return to key concepts frequently, and that building strong foundations in Key Stage Three is critical for deep understanding of subjects at GCSE, A-Level and beyond.

Our philosophy for teaching and learning and information about the curriculum is shared with parents during Information Evenings at the beginning of Year 7 and 10 and as part of the GCSE Options process in February of Year 9.  We recognise the importance of a home school partnership in helping students to achieve their best.    

For more information about the curriculum in each Key Stage, please see the links on this webpage.

AGSB’s Extra Curricular Provision

The formal curriculum at AGSB is supplemented by an extensive extracurricular programme.  The aim of the extracurricular programme is to further enrich the formal curriculum, providing students with opportunities to develop a wide variety of skills and interests.  For further information about the extracurricular provision at AGSB please see the Extra Curricular page of the school website

Responsible Citizens with strong moral values

Students at AGSB are responsible citizens with strong moral values and our curriculum and extracurricular programme play an important role in developing these skills.  Through assemblies, ‘Thought for the Week’ and as part of lessons in Philosophy and Ethics and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education, students are given an opportunity to explore a broad range of themes and issues.

Each year, in the half term running up to Christmas, forms are challenged to use innovative and creative approaches to raise money for our school charities.  Mr Hall announces the results before we finish for our Christmas holidays. 

Extracurricular opportunities also enable students to develop their character and values; Model United Nations, debating and public speaking competitions, eco and gardening club to name a few.  Added to this, AGSB champions the National Citizenship Service opportunity given to Years 11 and 12, annually more than 100 of our Year 11 pupils take part in this programme. 

Careers education

At AGSB we understand the importance of an effective Careers education.  For further information please see the Careers page of the school website.

Visit our Policies' page to view our Curriculum Policy - Policies