Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent Learning at The Westgate School Curriculum Intent The Westgate School’s curriculum reflects two principles: firstly, acquisition – where pupils are taught to acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills in each subject domain in order to apply this learning to new situations; and secondly, participation – that pupils need to develop the skills to engage positively in different situations. In doing so, pupils further their learning and sense of belonging. In some subjects, such as Science, the emphasis lies more heavily on the acquisition of knowledge whereas in a subject such as Drama, the skills of participation predominate. In every lesson we expect adults to consider how best to facilitate pupils’ active participation in their learning – including “thinking hard” – and, to use the school’s core approach to teaching and learning so that pupils experience a coherent learning journey. In every subject, leaders are designing and evolving their curricula based on the golden threads of learning from Year R to Year 11 in their particular domain. Planning is based on clear objectives, using misconceptions as opportunities for rich learning, and facilitating greater depth in pupils’ knowledge rather than greater curriculum coverage. The specified curriculum is based on the National Curriculum and KS4 syllabi however, The Westgate School believes strongly in ensuring that the ‘hidden curriculum’ – how pupils learn about themselves and society in the way that we organise ourselves as a school – has a positive impact on the individual child. We strongly believe that access to cultural capital is an entitlement of every pupil, and we are regularly reviewing our curriculum to increase opportunities to access learning about different cultures and diversity. We also have a specified ‘Well-being Curriculum’, which sets out the universal provision for all pupils, and we are developing our practice to facilitate even greater inclusion in extra-curricular provision in school. Moreover, as part of our ongoing learning, we involve pupils proactively in curriculum development through our received curriculum reviews and our pupil leadership groups. At The Westgate School our curriculum is not intended to lead learners to fulfil their potential: our intention is to unlock the individual’s potential and to equip them with the knowledge and skills to be able to learn in different situations throughout their lives. Our teaching is inclusive using a whole class approach. Teachers use fluid, peel away groups: “Master Classes” for support and extension as needed. A Community of Learning... Being a high achieving, successful learning community only happens as a result of genuine collaboration. Every young person is unique and so we seek to provide a range of different learning opportunities in which every individual can excel. The Early Years Foundation Stage is framed around the characteristics of effective learning: Playing | Exploring active learning | Creating | Thinking critically These provide a foundation for learning upon which our curriculum in the Lower and Upper Schools are built. Our central purpose is for children to develop into young people who are happy and effective learners. We achieve this by being a community of learning where adults and pupils alike are committed to this central aim and work in strong partnership with parents to inspire success for all. Adults working with children and young people in our school community use a process of observation, assessment and planning to identify the learning and developmental needs of each child. Alongside knowledge of children’s interests, we plan opportunities for learning that are stimulating and engaging, leading to strong progress right from the Early Years Foundation Stage through to Year 11. In addition to the specified curriculum, pupils at The Westgate School will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of activities that enhance and enrich the curriculum. The all-through setting provides a unique opportunity for young people to learn from their peers and through the teaching of younger pupils. This powerful model for learning is one that permeates our culture and further enriches the community of learning. ...Achieving Excellence. Based on the principles of a growth mindset, the practice of teaching and learning at The Westgate School encourages children and young people to be led by their curiosity and to be prepared to use mistakes as the best opportunities for learning. This begins in the Early Years Foundation Stage where pupils are encouraged to make decisions about how to do things, to explain their thinking and to be resilient in their efforts. This theme continues through our practice in the Lower and Upper Schools where teaching colleagues will encourage pupils to verbalise their decision making process, explaining how they reached a particular conclusion or why they chose a specific method for doing something in order that they gain even better control over their learning and can apply skills to new situations. A golden thread throughout learning in all subjects and stages at The Westgate School is the development of Literacy and Mathematical skills which are a foundation for learning in all disciplines and lead to strong outcomes at examination level and for post-16 learning. At The Westgate School, we believe that through our exemplary partnerships with parents and young people, we can inspire a love of learning - something that is intrinsically linked to the development of individual self-esteem and motivation. In our school, there is no separation between our commitment to academic success and the well-being of the children and young people in our community. Compliance with regulatory acts Our curriculum complies within the duties of the the statutory Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice (2015) and the following legislation: Part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014, which sets out schools’ responsibilities for pupils with SEN and disabilities and The Equality Act 2010, with particular reference to Part 6 “Education” We strive for High Quality Inclusive Teaching within our classes and for all pupils to access a broad and balanced curriculum. When deciding whether special educational provision is required, we will start with the desired outcomes, including a variety of assessments of the pupil’s progress and attainment, the views and wishes of the pupil and their parents, and information from other agencies. Please refer to our SEN Information report for further details Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

History Re-constructing the lives and stories of the past to understand the present Go Go Our History Curriculum intends to: Inspire pupils to become curious about the past and equip them to ask perceptive questions, think critically, evaluate arguments and develop perspective and judgement. Enable pupils to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain's past and that of the wider world. Help pupils to understand the complexity of people's lives, the process of change and the diversity of societies, as well as exploring their own identity and the challenges of their time. Why learn History? History helps us to understand humanity. By studying our shared human past, we can unlock the secrets of our very identities. Who you are within your individual and family history. Who you are in your city's history. Who you are within your nation's history. And who you are within humanity's history. As humans we are constantly looking back to see where we come from, and history gives us the tools to do that at the highest level. To understand why the world is as it is. To understand the issues we may face going forward. To understand what it means to be human. All by exploring what our ancestors have done in the past. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. Each topic begins with an enrichment activity such as an educational visit or special event that captures the children’s interest and imagination and builds towards a showcase event such as an exhibition or assembly where c hildren’s learning can be shared and celebrated. Key stage 1 course content Pupils will develop an awareness of the past, using common words and phrases relating to the passing of time. They will know where the people and events they study fit within a chronological framework and identify similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods. They will use a wide vocabulary of everyday historical terms. They will be taught to ask and answer questions, choosing and using parts of stories and other sources to show that they know and understand key features of events. They will understand some of the ways in which we find out about the past and identify different ways in which it is represented. In planning to ensure the progression described above through teaching about the people, events and changes outlined below, teachers are often introducing pupils to historical periods that we will study more fully at key stages 2 and 3. Pupils will be taught about: Changes within living memory. Where appropriate, these should be used to reveal aspects of change in national life. Events beyond living memory that are significant nationally or globally (for example, the Great Fire of London, the first aeroplane flight or events commemorated through festivals or anniversaries). The lives of significant individuals in the past who have contributed to national and international achievements. Some should be used to compare aspects of life in different periods (e.g. Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria, Christopher Columbus and Neil Armstrong, William Caxton and Tim Berners-Lee, Pieter Bruegel the Elder and LS Lowry, Rosa Parks and Emily Davison, Mary Seacole and/or Florence Nightingale and Edith Cavell). Significant historical events, people and places in their own locality. Planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. Each topic begins with an enrichment activity such as an educational visit or special event that captures the children’s interest and imagination and builds towards a showcase event such as an exhibition or assembly where c hildren’s learning can be shared and celebrated. Key stage 2 course content Pupils will continue to develop a chronologically secure knowledge and understanding of British, local and world history, establishing clear narratives within and across the periods they study. They will note connections, contrasts and trends over time and develop the appropriate use of historical terms. They will regularly address and sometimes devise historically valid questions about change, cause, similarity and difference, and significance. They will construct informed responses that involve thoughtful selection and organisation of relevant historical information. They will understand how our knowledge of the past is constructed from a range of sources. We will ensure the progression described above through teaching the British, local and world history outlined below, through combining an overview as well as in depth studies to help pupils understand both the long arc of development and the complexity of specific aspects of the content. Pupils will be taught about: Changes in Britain from the Stone Age to the Iron Age. The Roman Empire and its impact on Britain. Britain’s settlement by Anglo-Saxons and Scots. The Viking and Anglo-Saxon struggle for the Kingdom of England to the time of Edward the Confessor. A study of an aspect or theme in British history that extends pupils’ chronological knowledge beyond 1066. The achievements of the earliest civilizations – an overview of where and when the first civilizations appeared and a depth study of one of the following: Ancient Sumer; The Indus Valley; Ancient Egypt; The Shang Dynasty of Ancient China. Ancient Greece – a study of Greek life and achievements and their influence on the western world. A non-European society that provides contrasts with British history – one study chosen from: early Islamic civilization, including a study of Baghdad c. AD 900; Mayan civilization c. AD 900; Benin (West Africa) c. AD 900-1300. A local history theme. We have a big enquiry question, linked to the National Curriculum, to explore every topic we teach. These questions help pupils to understand that History is a construct that historians create to provide an understanding of the past. We then provide a range of evidence to enable pupils to formulate possible answers for themselves. In Year 7 our big theme is the global, connected world and where Britain fits into it alongside traditional British topics. In Year 8 our big themes are empire and revolution to show how the modern world was made and to show the scale and breadth of empire across the entire year Year 7 Course Content: Year 8 Course Content: Course Skills: We will look at the different disciplinary aspects of History: Sources – exploring and understanding the past through documents, letters, posters, newspapers and more. Interpretations – exploring and challenging historians and society's views of the past. Cause and Consequence – judging why events happen and the importance of their consequences. Significance – judging historical events importance to our lives today and their importance to the people who experienced them. Narrative – exploring the past and creating historical accounts like all good historians. Change and Continuity – how and have things changed or stayed the same and the experience of that by people in the past. Similarity and Difference – how people perceived different ideas or events and how they experienced them. Fieldwork: Many of the topics in History - and especially the trips organised to complement the curriculum - are designed to broaden pupils’ cultural experiences such as our Year 7 fieldwork to Portchester Castle in the Summer Term. Assessment: Assessments take place in lessons and focus on key knowledge and historical skills or concepts. Time is given to whole class feedback for pupils to act on the targets they have been given. The Year 9 curriculum allows pupils to build on their KS3 skills of being a historian within topics that allow for greater depth. Autumn Term: The Forging of the Modern World, 1871-1923 The Causes of the First World War. Life in the WWI Trenches. The Historiography of WWI generals. The End of WWI. The Russian Revolution. Spring Term: ‘To Hell and Back’: Europe’s Era of Self-Destruction, 1918-1939 Peace settlement of WWI. The Global "Roaring" Twenties. The Rise of Dictators. The Causes of WWII. Summer Term: Superpower Relations and Medicine Through Time The Early Cold War. Life in East Germany . Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval, Early-Modern, Industrial, and Modern Medicine in Britian Through Time. Fieldwork: Pupils have the opportunity to go on residential fieldwork to Ypres, Belgium, visiting First World War graveyards, the Menin Gate, a trench system and several museums. Home Learning: Throughout the year pupils will be set regular Home Learning to reinforce the learning in the classroom. GCSE History pupils will be able to navigate two British, and two non-British topics, that encapsulate the creation of both modern Britain and the modern world. Pupils will be able to explore the big picture view of the past and appreciate the vast forces that shape humanity and our society around us. Year 10 course content: September-February: Migration, Empire and the People – an exploration of how Britain has been shaped by migration, broadened by empire, and how British identity has emerged over the past 1,300 years. February-July: Restoration England, 1660-1685 – a study of the reign of Charles II; party animal? You decide. We explore the origins of the British parliamentary system, of cultural explosions in theatre, science and the arts, and a reflection of Britain’s role in expanding the world’s empires and atrocities like the slave trade. Year 11 course content: September-January: Germany, 1890-1945 – a hugely important topic for understand the roots of fascism and Nazism in Germany, the destruction of democracy, and humanity’s worst ever experiment into a totalitarian regime. January-April: Conflict & Tension, 1918-1939 – a study of Europe’s drive for peace around the world after the horrors of WWI, the defiance of the League of Nations to secure that peace but how dictators like Hitler undermined the search for peace in his pursuit of global war and domination. Fieldwork: In Year 10: Pupils will be taken on a Migration & Empire walk around Winchester exploring local links to global history. In Year 11: Pupils have the chance to go to Berlin, Germany. To explore the history of a great European city and revise our History GCSE by immersing in the culture. From WWI to Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin offers a microcosm of 20th century history in one city. Assessment: Over the syllabus there will be regular assessments to test acquired skills. Ten minutes knowledge tests and GCSE style practice questions. The History GCSE has five components which are examined in two exams at the end of Year 11. Both exams are worth 50% of the course mark. Home Learning: Throughout the year pupils will be set regular Home Learning to reinforce the learning in the classroom. Exam board: AQA History (8145) Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Find out more about The Westgate School's choices and options process for parents of pupils in year 9 to year 11 Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choices & Options Choosing options is an exciting process, though a little daunting. This page provides an overview to our curriculum for the remaining three years of your child’s time with us. Firstly, you should be aware that pupils do not have a completely free choice! It is the school’s expectation that every young person will engage with the full range of curriculum entitlement that includes Foreign Languages as part of our core provision through to GCSE summative assessment. Only in very exceptional circumstances are pupils able to reduce the number of subjects for which they are entered which include: long term absence, specific learning needs or low attendance owing to medical reasons; a pupil who has joined the school under Fair Access arrangements for whom the full range of GCSEs may not be appropriate, or a pupil who is in receipt of support from Children’s Services for whom the full range of subjects would be an unreasonable expectation or a child that is on reduced/alternative provision as agreed by the Inclusion Support Services (Hampshire County Council). Curriculum Choices and GCSE Options Throughout Years 9 to 11, pupils will continue to study the core subjects of English, Maths and Science and from Year 10 their learning will focus on the GCSE syllabi and a choice of either Double or Triple Science. Pupils will take GCSE English Language and Literature in our school as part of their core provision. Pupils must take part in core PE and the majority of pupils will continue to study a language. Beyond these compulsory aspects, pupils can then express a preference of subjects they would like to study to GCSE, timetable permitting. It is important that pupils make informed decisions and so our option process gives plenty of opportunities for parents/carers to meet with colleagues and reflect on the options available. Our core provision is designed to enable pupils to undertake post-16 opportunities, subject to achieving the minimum grade entry requirements as specified by those providers.   Year 9 Choices The Year 9 curriculum is characterised by broader opportunities for pupils to experience new subjects such as Photography and Media Studies as discrete subjects. Meanwhile, all pupils will continue their learning in Core Computing, PE, Religious Education and at least one other Humanities subject such as History or Geography to ensure a broad and balanced curriculum is experienced. They will then express a preference for a further three subjects. The school takes a varied approach to the organisation of teaching groups to ensure that the challenges of learning in different disciplines are effectively met.   Year 10 GCSE Options By the end of Year 9, pupils will have a second opportunity to focus their learning as they express their preference of subjects for examination entry. In addition to the core provision, they will choose three options to take to GCSE. We expect most pupils to continue with a Humanity subject because alongside a range of other subject disciplines, qualifications in these disciplines are a sound foundation for post-16 learning. Additionally, pupils may wish to continue with a second language course. Where pupils have particular interests in music or sport for example, the school provides ample opportunities for them to pursue their interests even if not taken as an examination subject. We actively promote pupils exploring extra-curricular opportunities throughout their study at The Westgate School. Our overriding aim is to ensure that as many pupils as possible are able to study their preferred subjects in Year 9 and 10. However, this is not always possible to achieve due to the availability of colleagues, resources, and the need to ensure the viability of group sizes. In the event of a subject being oversubscribed, pupils will be randomly selected using a digital randomiser for first refusal to ensure a fair and transparent approach. Our phased approach to curriculum preferences means that it’s rarely the case that pupils wish to change their curriculum preference. Whenever possible, this will be considered but is unlikely to viable as it is subject to availability of space in that new subject. It’s equally important to establish consistency within a subject class, and therefore changes will only be considered in the first 4 weeks from the start of the academic year and only with a clear, sound academic rationale. Changes outside of this period will only be considered on an exceptional basis. Pupils will not be permitted to change their classes or subjects based on friendship requests. Curriculum structure across the 5 years The Foundation Choices All pupils study English, Maths, Science, core PE and Personal Development. These subjects take up 14 out of a pupil’s 25 lessons each week. Option subjects take up the remaining 11 lessons. They take 6 foundation courses in Year 9 (including a language and RE) and then refine this down to 3 options (4 if no language taken) in Year 10. These are the Foundation subject we offer for Year 9 and GCSE: Astronomy explores the Earth–Moon–Sun system, the solar system, stars, galaxies and the wider universe, focusing on how we observe and understand cosmic phenomena. It develops scientific skills through practical observations, calculations, and the use of real astronomical data. Fine Art is a vibrant and dynamic subject that offers pupils the freedom to learn in ways that inspire and bring out the best in of their skills and knowledge. Computer Science has real relevance in our modern world. The course will give an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and what goes on “behind the scenes”. Design & Technology covers core technical, designing and making principles, including a broad range of design and modelling processes, techniques and use of equipment to realise ideas. Food Preparation & Nutrition provides an opportunity for pupils to prepare a wide variety of different dishes. Pupils investigate the functions of different ingredients as well as understand the foods that contribute to a healthy diet. Drama allows pupils to develop performance skills or design skills including set design and sound. Pupils will gain confidence and experience they need for the future. Geography gives pupils the opportunity to learn about both natural and social sciences. We will consider how geography impacts everyday life, the key opportunities and challenges facing the world. History will help pupils understand past events and people. We believe that as a society there is importance of not just learning history but learning from history. Latin (within the English curriculum in Year 9, a separate subject from Year 10) provides a foundation in linguistic and cultural competence, enabling pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of the Roman world through reading and responding to its language and literature. Modern Languages (French, German and Spanish) will help pupils develop their ability to write and speak in the language and to understand the language when it is written or spoken. Media - each time we watch television, read a newspaper or access the internet, we are exposed to the power of the Media. This dynamic and exciting subject provides pupils with an excellent tool to navigate and analyse the world we live in. Music is constantly evolving, inspiring creativity and expression in a way that no other subject can. Our course offers pupils the chance to study a wide range of musical genres, with more opportunities for practical learning. Photography will enable pupils to consider how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed and interpreted in images. Pupils will develop a knowledge and understanding of photography and cameras. Physical Education is a combination of practical and theory work that builds pupils understanding of anatomy and physiology and the social aspects of sport. Pupils will need to competent in three different sports. Religious Education course involves the learning about two major world religions, Christianity and Islam and looks at their beliefs and practices, their customs and traditions, their festivals and holy days. We also learn different ethical perspectives. Sculpture - pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed in images, artefacts and products in their chosen area(s) of learning. Things to consider What subjects do they enjoy? Only your child knows the answer to this. If they like a subject, they will not mind working hard at it. Hard work is essential whatever they choose, but enjoyment makes the work easier. What subjects are they good at? As well as talking about this with your child, you should use the advice of their teachers and Form Tutor. How do they enjoy working? Some subjects will require them to do a lot of coursework. Others will be assessed mainly by exam. Consider together about which way of working they prefer. What do they want to do when they leave school? They may already know exactly what career you wish to follow. If so, they could choose the subjects which may be needed as qualifications. Most Year 9 pupils have no settled ideas of what they would like to do after leaving school. If this is true for your child, then help them choose a balanced set of courses which will leave them with plenty of possible careers to choose from later on. The options timeline There will be time for both pupils and parents to meet with subject teachers and senior colleagues in school and to take on board careers advice from a qualified advisor. Please take note of all the key dates. Autumn Term Partners in Learning events and Tutors start talking about options and pupils consider the impact of their choices Thursday 5 th March The Careers Fair runs from 4.30 pm to 7.30pm At 4:30 we will have school stalls so that you can speak with teachers about the school courses. Additionally, from 5:30 we will have colleges, career guidance and businesses in school for pupils to meet with and discuss possibilities. Thursday 12 th March Year 9 Parents’ Evening You can then speak with teachers about your child’s preferences. It may be useful for you to prioritise booking the preferred option teachers for this evening rather than English, Maths and Science. Friday 20 th March Year 9 Option forms must be completed online Thursday 23 rd April Year 8 Parents’ Evening You can then speak with teachers about your child’s preferences. It may be useful for you to prioritise booking the preferred option teachers for this evening rather than English, Maths and Science. Friday 24 th April Year 8 Choices forms must be completed online Further information about the courses There is a detailed Curriculum booklet that can be downloaded from our website which has the information about the different GCSEs. This can be found at: Curriculum Subjects There will be plenty of opportunity for both pupils and parents/carers to consider the optimum choices. We encourage you all to make maximum use of the information available, and the opportunities on offer, to engage with subject teachers and other professionals in school throughout the options process. Please do ask for further assistance or advice should you require it. Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Develop leadership skills through professional coaching and mentoring for educators. Leadership Coaching & Mentoring Go Go Leadership Coaching & Mentoring Lead Professional: Mrs. F Dean (Executive Headteacher); Mrs. J Edwards (Head of School) and Mrs. K. Evans (Deputy Headteacher) Leadership coaching and mentoring provide structured support for individuals in leadership roles to develop their skills, confidence, and strategic thinking. Through personalised sessions, leaders can reflect on their practice and identify areas for growth. This process fosters resilience and adaptability, enabling leaders to navigate complex challenges effectively. Mentoring complements coaching by offering guidance from experienced professionals who share insights and practical advice. It creates a collaborative environment where leaders can learn from real-world experiences, build networks, and gain perspective on long-term career development. Together, coaching and mentoring strengthen leadership capacity and contribute to sustainable improvement across teams. For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Leadership Coaching . Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

Helpful information, guidance and useful resources to support your child’s learning, wellbeing and experience at The Westgate School. Parent Information Children & Smartphone Resources Screen time tips Bullying Grooming Isolation and loneliness Family digital detox Sleep and mental health issues A health briefing on the evidenced risks of smart devices and social media in school-age children: summary Source: healthprofessionalsforsaferscreens.org Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

Strengthen school governance with our support services and collaborative solutions. Governance Support & Collaboration Agreements Go Go Governance Support & Collaboration Agreements Lead Professional: Mrs. F Dean (Executive Headteacher) & Mrs. P Catchpole (Chair of Governors) and Mrs. Claire Woodcock Governance support helps school governing bodies fulfil their statutory responsibilities and support strategic improvement. This includes training, policy guidance, and advice on compliance, enabling governors to make informed decisions that positively impact pupil achievement and school performance. Collaboration agreements formalise partnerships between schools, promoting resource sharing, joint initiatives, and collective accountability. These agreements strengthen governance and through peer support, provide opportunities for governors to deepen their knowledge and understanding in supporting their schools. For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Governance . Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

Find key exam information for The Westgate School, including schedules, guidance and support to help pupils prepare confidently for upcoming assessments. Exam Information Examinations at The Westgate School The school uses a wide range of assessment techniques to monitor pupil progress and help ensure all children continue to move forwards with their learning. In addition to classroom-based assessment and tests, at key times throughout their secondary school journey pupils will take more formal mock examinations - these are a vital way of preparing pupils for what they will experience in their real GCSEs. They help children develop their revision skills; their time management; their emotional resilience within exam conditions; as well as their exam technique - and they provide teachers will invaluable information which we use to inform our curriculum planning in the months leading up to the GCSE exams. Pupils will sit formal mock examinations in: The summer term of Year 10 (after the Year 11 GCSEs are finished) The autumn term of Year 11 (a few weeks before the Christmas holidays) February of Year 11 for English, Maths and Science only Exact timetables will be published to pupils in the build-up to each exam series and can be found below. Tutors and colleagues within school will work with pupils to reassure, support and prepare them for these mock examinations, and parents will be provided with information in our Partners in Learning events throughout the year. Attendance at exams Attendance is vital in this last year. Every day missed has an effect and poor attendance clearly affects results. Even more important is ensuring that pupils attend all examinations and arrive in good time to ensure that they are mentally prepared to walk into their exams and achieve their best. We work closely with our Attendance Manager, and penalty issues may be issued, should attendance be poor. Revision It is vital that you help and support your child plan and structure revision time, ensuring the build-up to both Mock exams and the real GCSEs is used effectively. There are additional resources on how parents can support their child with revision on EduLink, in the Noticeboard tab. Work and wellbeing Year 11 can be a stressful year as pupils prepare for their examinations. We follow a programme in Tutor time which tries to anticipate possible issues in terms of stress. Possible helpful site: anxietyuk.org.uk - exam-stress Exam Dates 2025-26 GCSE Timetable Summer 2026 AI Poster Coursework assessments Guidance for parents, carers and students about access arrangements Information for Candidates | Privacy Notice Non-examination assessments On-screen tests Preparing to sit your exams Using social media and examinations/assessments Unauthorised items poster Written examinations Warning to candidates Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information Army Cadet Detachment

Image of hands making pastry. Food Preparation and Nutrition Nutrition for a healthy future Go Go Our Food Preparation and Nutrition curriculum intends to: Inspire pupils to gain knowledge and practical experience of preparing and making a wide range of creative, innovative and complex dishes that enable them to make informed and healthy choices about the foods they eat. Enable pupils to think critically about the best ethical and moral choices. Develop an understanding of the practical application of scientific principles of food preparation. Why Learn Food Preparation and Nutrition? Food Preparation and Nutrition equips pupils with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to prepare different foods and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. It encourages pupils to cook, enables them to make informed decisions about food and nutrition and allows them to acquire knowledge to feed themselves and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life. Course Skills: Designing and making high quality products using a wide range of skills in the safe and hygienic preparation of food. Learning about the science behind food and the way the physical and chemical properties of ingredients are essential to creating successful dishes. Developing organisational skills, including the management of time. Reading, understanding and following recipes, selecting suitable ingredients. Sensory analysis of own products as well as existing ones. Using and understanding technical vocabulary and applying it in context. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Cooking and nutrition As part of their work with food, pupils are taught how to cook and apply the principles of nutrition and healthy eating. Instilling a love of cooking in pupils will also open a door to one of the great expressions of human creativity. Learning how to cook is a crucial life skill that enables pupils to feed themselves and others affordably and well, now and in later life. Key stage 1 course content Our pupils will be taught to: use the basic principles of a healthy and varied diet to prepare dishes; understand where food comes from. Cooking and nutrition As part of their work with food, pupils are taught how to cook and apply the principles of nutrition and healthy eating. Instilling a love of cooking in pupils will also open a door to one of the great expressions of human creativity. Learning how to cook is a crucial life skill that enables pupils to feed themselves and others affordably and well, now and in later life. Key stage 2 course content Understand and apply the principles of a healthy and varied diet. Prepare and cook a variety of predominantly savoury dishes using a range of cooking techniques. Understand seasonality, and know where and how a variety of ingredients are grown, reared, caught and processed. Year 7 and 8 Course Content: In Years 7 and 8, all pupils study Food Preparation and Nutrition for one lesson a week, this generally alternates between theory then practical lessons. Aims: The course content aims to deliver the theoretical knowledge needed by carrying out practical activities with the recipe linking to the topic being taught. These practical lessons will develop essential practical skills and understanding of ingredients and recipes. It is designed to provide all pupils with a range of cookery skills, knowledge of nutrition as well as an understanding of food science, food safety, food choice and food provenance. Course information: In Year 7 we consider: · Preparing for practical work. · Personal safety. · Weighing and measuring accurately. · Using an oven safely. · Using specialised cooking equipment. · Introduction to nutrition and healthy eating. · Allergens and intolerance. · Cuisine from different cultures. · Knife skills - Fruit and vegetables. · Preparation skills – Fruit and vegetables. · Making doughs and using raising agents – Scones. · How to make a range of sauces – Reduction (Bolognese/tomato/curry). · Food waste - Using leftovers. · Mini design and make project - Muffins. · Planning for practical assessment - Baked bean challenge. · Practical and written assessment. Practical lessons: Recipes may include: fruit salad, sweet potato brownies, pasta and tomato sauce, Hawaiian poke bowls, scones, goujons, spaghetti Bolognese, fridge-raid pasta bake, baked bean challenge, muffins, crumble, dips and dippers, stir fry, curry, apple cake. In Year 8 we consider: · Macro and micro-nutrients - Sources and functions · The science behind bread - Gluten formation · The science of pastries - Shortening · Food waste · Food seasonality · Knife skills – Fruit and vegetables · Preparation skills – Fruit and vegetables · Producing doughs – Lean and enriched breads, yeast · Pastry skills - Shortcrust and blind baking, puff and lamination · Producing sauces – Gelatinisation of roux-based sauce, reduction and emulsified sauces · Dietary requirements – Vegetarian and vegan · Aeration - Swiss roll/Yule log · Raising agents – Biological, chemical and mechanical · Food commodities – Potatoes, rice, pasta and bread · Sensory evaluations · Mini design and make project - Sponge tartlets and gourmet burgers · Tunnocks teacake challenge national competition · Planning for practical assessment · Practical and written assessment Practical lessons: Recipes may include: cooking eggs in different ways, jerk chicken/halloumi, meatballs and tomato sauce, apple pie, quiche, puff pastry, macaroni cheese, ice cream and fruit coulis, chicken/cheese and onion pie, fougasse, savoury swirls, iced buns, sponge tartlets, burgers with a side dish. Year 9 Course Content: In Year 9, all pupils study Food Preparation and Nutrition for two hours a week, this generally alternates between theory then practical lessons. Aims: The course content aims to deliver the theoretical knowledge needed by carrying out practical activities with the recipe linking to the topic being taught and to further enrich and deepen the pupils’ knowledge from KS3. Practical lessons will build upon skills already learned whilst also develop key practical and technical skills and understanding of ingredients and recipes. It is designed to provide all pupils with a range of cookery skills, knowledge of nutrition as well as an understanding of food science, food safety, food choice and food provenance. Course information In Year 9 we consider: · The importance of a healthy balanced diet · Nutritional analysis · Life stage requirements · Different cooking methods and how they affect the properties of different foods · Bacterial contamination and the role of micro-organisms and enzymes in food spoilage · The influence of food from different countries and religions · Food labelling and marketing · How to buy, store, prepare, serve, and cook food properly · Where food comes from and how can we make the most of our seasonal produce · Design and make Afternoon Tea project · Preparation skills – Jointing chicken, piping and shaping · Dough and Pastry skills – Pasta, puff and choux pastries · Cooking methods and methods of heat transfer · Pasta skills – Tagliatelle and ravioli · Biological aeration and fermentation · Gluten formation · Caramelisation of sugars · Dextrinisation of starches · Denaturation and coagulation of proteins · Planning for practical assessment · Practical and written assessment · Practical and written assessment Practical lessons: Recipes may include: KFC fakeaway, tagliatelle with homemade pesto, soup and scones, carrot cake, pannacotta, gnocchi and tomato sauce, samosas, crumble and crème anglaise, share and tear chocolate bread, tarte tatin, jam, chicken Kievs, cheesecake, tagliatelle/ravioli and sauce, puff pastry apple turnovers, eclairs, challah bread. Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. At its heart, this qualification focuses on nurturing pupils’ practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition. We encourage pupils of all abilities to make full use of their skills and to exceed their potential by taking the AQA Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE. Pupils are encouraged to enter external competitions such as the Future Chef Competition, the Tunnocks Teacake Challenge and complete the Junior Chef Programme run by Eastleigh College – we have already had several Y10 and Y11 pupils graduate with glowing reviews. Course information: There are 6 main topics in the GCSE Course: Food Preparation Skills - a range of food preparation and cooking skills needed throughout the GCSE Food, Nutrition and Health - Macronutrients, micronutrients and the nutritional needs and health Food Science - Cooking, heat transfer and the functional and chemical properties of food Food Safety - Food spoilage and contamination and principles of food safety Food Choice - Factors affecting food choice, British and International cuisine, sensory evaluation, food labelling and food marketing Food Provenance - Environmental impact of food and sustainability of food, food processing and food production Assessment: 15% – Food Science Practical Investigation – NEA 1 Pupils show their understanding of the working characteristics, and functional and chemical properties of ingredients. 35% – Food Practical Preparation – NEA 2 Pupils demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking, presentation of food and application of nutrition related to a chosen task. Pupils do this by preparing, cooking and presenting a final menu of three dishes within three hours, planning in advance how this will be achieved. 50% – Written Exam Paper Pupils are assessed on their theoretical knowledge of food preparation and nutrition from the subject content. The exam is 1 hour 45 minutes and is out of 100 marks, with multiple choice questions (20 marks) and five longer questions each with a number of sub-questions (80 marks). Exam Board: AQA – 8585 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum

Orchestra club, experience the joy of making music! Open to all skill levels, we offer fun rehearsals, exciting performances, and a supportive community. Orchestra (Lower School) Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Orchestra (Lower School) Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 1 - 6 Contact Primary Reception Discover the joy of making music with friends! Our Lower School orchestra welcomes musicians of all skill levels. Whether you play strings, woodwinds, brass, or percussion, there's a place for you. Enjoy exciting performances, improve your musical talents, and be part of a supportive community. Rehearsals are fun and rewarding, and we perform at various school and community events throughout the year. Come share your passion for music and create unforgettable memories with us! Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

Join The Westgate School Basket Ball and Netball club! All skill levels welcome for fun, fitness, and friendly competition. Basketball & Netball Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Basketball & Netball Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 3 - 6 Contact Primary Reception Get ready to elevate your game and have a blast with our school basketball and netball clubs! Whether you’re aiming to improve your skills or just looking for some fun and fitness, our clubs offer something for everyone. Here’s why you should join: Skill Development Team Spirit Fitness and Fun Both clubs provide a supportive and encouraging environment where you can grow as an athlete and make lasting friendships. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of these exciting sports communities! Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

The ensemble will help in the development of instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills in the rehearsals. Folk Group Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Folk Group Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 8 Contact See EduLink for further details The Folk Group is open to all enthusiastic players of Guitar and Keyboard to play the chords, and Violin, Recorders, Flute, Penny/Tin Whistle (any wind instruments) to play the melody. The ensemble will help in the development of instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills in the rehearsals, as well as develop a good social network of like-minded musicians. Musicians will have the opportunity to learn traditional Folk tunes from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and possibly other countries and participate in events such as school concerts, celebrations, ‘Go West’ Festival, open mornings and evenings, and community events. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

Learn life-saving skills with our Emergency Paediatric First Aid qualification for childcare settings. Emergency Paediatric First Aid (Level 3) Qualification Go Go Emergency Paediatric First Aid (Level 3) Qualification Lead Professional: Mr. P Hurley (Assistant Headteacher) The Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA) course is a one day first aid qualification that covers a range of CPR and emergency first aid skills specifically for children and infants (babies).   The Emergency Paediatric First Aid course is for anyone over 16 who has contact with children and infants. Upon completion of the course, candidates receive a nationally recognised Level 3 Emergency Paediatric First Aid qualification which is valid for 3 years.  Paediatric first-aid training equips adults with essential skills to respond effectively to medical emergencies involving children. The training covers critical areas such as CPR, choking, allergic reactions, and injury management, ensuring that colleagues can act swiftly and confidently in high-pressure situations. These competencies are vital for safeguarding the health and well-being of pupils. Beyond emergency response, the training emphasises prevention and risk assessment, helping colleagues create safer environments for children. The training is offered by a qualified first responder (NHS) and meets the expectations for certification. For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Emergency Paediatric First Aid . Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact