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

Learn about The Westgate School's Pupil Premium strategy, aimed at closing the attainment gap and supporting disadvantaged pupils. Pupil Premium | PE and Sports Premium Pupil Premium | PE and Sports Premium Pupil Premium Strategy Pupil Premium Strategy 2025-26 PE and Sports Premium for Primary Schools 2024-25 At The Westgate School, we aim to: Increase all colleagues’ confidence, knowledge and skills in teaching PE and sport. Increase engagement of all pupils in regular physical activity and sport. Raise the profile of PE and sport across the school, to support whole school improvement. Offer a broad and equal experience of a range of sports and physical activities to all pupils. Increase participation in competitive sport. We see continuing professional development (CPD) for staff as a key priority to ensure that improvements to the teaching of PE, sport and physical activity are sustainable. This includes: Professional development Mentoring Appropriate training Access to external resources The Westgate Primary School Sports Premium 2023-24 PE and Sports Premium for Primary Schools In 2013 the Government announced that they would be spending £450 million over the next three academic years to help fund primary school sport, this is called the School Sport Premium. Schools must use the funding to make additional and sustainable improvements to the quality of PE and sport they offer and should use the premium to: Develop or add to the PE and sport activities that the school already offers Make improvements now that will benefit pupils joining the school in future years Schools have the freedom to spend the money however they choose, but this must be towards improving their provision of PE and Sport to give children the opportunity to develop a healthy lifestyle and cannot be spent on the delivery of the Core PE curriculum. At The Westgate Primary School, we aim to: Improve pupils’ fitness, health and wellbeing Promote a culture of inclusiveness which enables access to PE and Sport for all pupils Improve the PE skills and stamina of pupils to improve personal fitness Improve the resources and equipment used at The Westgate Lower School Offer a wide range of opportunities in PE Offer a wide range of extra-curricular sports clubs Introduce new sports or activities and encourage more pupils to take up sport To encourage pupils to participate in Sports Competitions Run and take part in Interschool Sports Festivals Provide opportunities for participating in Sport during lunchtimes Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Vacancies School News 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

Ensure consistency with subject assessment moderation services for schools. Go Subject Assessment Moderation (KS1-3) Go Subject Assessment Moderation (KS1-3) Lead Professional: Mr. J Green (Deputy Headteacher) Subject assessment moderation ensures consistency and accuracy in teacher judgments across Key Stages 1 to 3. By reviewing samples of pupil work against agreed standards, moderation validates assessment outcomes and supports reliable reporting. This process is essential for maintaining fairness and integrity in evaluating pupil progress. It also provides the opportunity for colleagues across all phases and subjects to co-construct assessment criteria to support teaching and learning. Moderation also serves as a professional development opportunity, enabling teachers to deepen their understanding of curriculum expectations and assessment criteria. Collaborative discussions during moderation sessions promote best practice, enhance subject knowledge, and strengthen confidence in delivering high-quality teaching and learning. If you would like to join our programme of curriculum development, please use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Assessment. 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 Vacancies School News Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

Experience the joy of music with The Westgate School Junior Orchestra! Join us to learn, play, and perform in a harmonious environment. Junior Orchestra Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Junior Orchestra Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details The Junior Orchestra is open to all players of Strings, Brass, Woodwind and Percussion and will develop instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills through-out the year, as well as develop a good social network of like-minded musicians. Rh ythm reading exercises will be amongst the warm-ups, and a variety of pieces from different genres and styles including 'Reggae Hits Town', 'Yellow Bird', The Bare Necessities', 'The Blue Danube' and 'Yesterday' will be played in rehearsals. Musicians will have the opportunity to participate in events such as school concerts, celebrations, ‘Go West’ Festival, and wider community events. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

Curriculum Group looks at the most important part of our school - what we are learning and how we learn. Curriculum Group Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Curriculum Group Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details Curriculum Group looks at the most important part of our school - what we are learning and how we learn. We speak teachers and provide feedback on our core purpose. Please come and join us. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

Join Westgate's Senior Orchestra to enhance musical skills, teamwork, and performance. Senior Orchestra Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Senior Orchestra Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details Senior Orchestra is open to all intermediate to advance players of String, Woodwind, Brass and Percussion.  Developing instrumental skills and encourage general musicianship skills through-out the year, as well as develop a good social network of like-minded musicians. Musicians will have the opportunity to participate in events such as School Concerts, open mornings and evenings, Celebrations, the annual School Carol Service in December, and ‘Go West’ Festival in July, and wider community events. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

At FEEBA Football club, our main aim is to empower girls to have fun, make friends and play football. Feeba Football - Girls Football Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Feeba Football - Girls Football Internal / External External Age Range Year 1 - 6 Contact feebafootball.co.uk Feeba Football - Girls Football At FEEBA Football, our main aim is to empower girls to have fun, make friends and play football. To support us to reach our aims, we offer a range of opportunities for girls to get involved in football including: after school clubs, holiday camps, 1-1 sessions & excel sessions. All our sessions are delivered by passionate FA qualified coaches, which ensures a safe and skills based provision. At FEEBA we also like to include the voice of women and therefore encourage mothers, grandparents, aunties and friends to be a part of our football community. As we want to promote a culture of women & girls being a part of football for future generations! FEEBA FOOTBALL – By Women for Girls 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

Enhance leadership with expert Executive and NPQ coaching tailored for school leaders. Go Executive and NPQ Coaching (including linked to LLSE) Go Executive and NPQ Coaching (including linked to LLSE) Lead Professional: Mrs. F Dean (Executive Headteacher) NPQ coaching, aligned with the LLSE & EMCC framework, supports senior leaders/participants undertaking National Professional Qualifications and those working in schools throughout their learning journey. As experienced leaders, coaches help individuals apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios, ensuring that leadership principles translate into measurable impact within their schools. This personalised approach enhances confidence and competence in implementing change. Contact-confidentiality is maintained at all times when working with other schools in this co-active approach For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Executive 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 Vacancies School News Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact

Join Westgate's Samba Band to explore rhythm, teamwork, and fun. Samba Band Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Samba Band Internal / External Internal Age Range Year 7 - 11 Contact See EduLink for further details Samba Band is a musical ensemble that plays exciting, vibrant and energetic music, and is open to any pupil. All the players learn their parts aurally and will often use words to help them memorise the rhythms. These rhythms are layered on top of each other to create a polyrhythmic texture. The rhythm section of a Samba Band, consisting of Drums, is known as a bateria . Samba music is always performed with lots of percussion instruments, and each member of the ensemble has a specific role, often involving the layering of different rhythm s following a series of signals from the lead repinique player. The signals are often played on a whistle called the apito. The Samba Band performs at various events throughout the year, both in school, such as concerts, Open events, Induction evenings, PSA events, and ''Go West' Festival, to wider community events such as leading the Hat Fair in Winchester in the Summer, and performing on the high street. Pupil music leaders will be supporting music teachers in running this club. Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go

Latin Opening a dozen different doors to understanding the language of academic and the influence of the Roman Empire on modern European society Go Go At The Westgate School, our Latin Curriculum intends to: Enable pupils to understand the significant influence Roman culture had on European society and languages and especially English. Enable pupils to explore the etymology of the English language and its significant links to Latin. Broaden pupils' use of English academic vocabulary. Enable pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of the Roman world through reading and responding to its literature. Why learn Latin? Latin (within the English curriculum) 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. In studying Latin we discover the roots of culture and language which shape Europe today. We analyse texts and stories in Latin to build knowledge and understanding of Latin vocabulary and grammar and we use sources in order to consider aspects of the fascinating and enthralling civilisation of the Roman world and culture. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Latin is not taught within our school in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards. Latin is not taught within our school in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards. Latin does not exist as a discrete course in Key Stage 3. However, we are increasingly introducing aspects of Latin into our English structures. What and how will I learn? In Year 9 pupils will be introduced to the Latin language and learn key words and be able to link the etymology of the language to English and also other modern languages. This new vocabulary is taught in a range of engaging and exciting ways and pupils thoroughly enjoy making links between Latin and other languages they are studying. For example, pupils will be challenged through the translation work, while learning the structures of the language. Alongside learning the Latin language, we will also study key facets of the Roman Civilisation. This will include: Roman family life including the Paterfamilias; the role of women and children in ancient Rome; discussing the morality of slavery and arranged marriages. When discussing these aspects of Roman life, we will link the experiences of the past to our modern lives and reflect on their impact. How will this be assessed in GCSE? The GCSE examination in Year 11 will consist of 1 Language paper (50%), 1 Literature paper (30%) and 1 Roman Civilisation paper (20%). Exam Board: (Eduqas) – C990PB 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