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Years 7 and 8: A Purposeful Start to Senior School

Starting senior school at 11 isn’t just a beginning—it’s a strategic advantage. At Leweston, Year 7 marks the start of a two-year journey designed to help pupils grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence before the academic demands of GCSEs begin.

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Years 7 and 8 are not a waiting room, they’re a launchpad. Pupils explore new subjects, discover their strengths, and build important habits of independent learning. With access to senior school facilities and co-curricular opportunities, they begin shaping their identity as learners and individuals. By the time they reach Year 9, they’re already embedded in the school community, familiar with expectations, and ready to thrive academically.

Academic Approach

Leweston delivers a broad and flexible curriculum that ensures balanced, appropriate and engaging opportunities for every pupil. Lessons are designed to be both challenging and inspiring, encouraging intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

  • 60-minute lessons allow for deeper exploration and meaningful discussion.
  • A two-week timetable cycle provides flexibility and variety in subject choice.
  • Each subject is led by experienced teachers under the guidance of dedicated Heads of Department, all focused on helping pupils achieve their personal best.

There is a strong emphasis on working hard and developing independence but we also know that happy pupils are motivated pupils. That’s why we encourage pupils to embrace every opportunity, both inside and outside the classroom.

From the moment they arrive, Year 7 pupils are taught by subject specialists who bring expertise, and enthusiasm to the classroom. Heads of Department lead experienced teams focused on helping every pupil achieve their personal best.

Curriculum Overview

Pupils follow a wide-ranging curriculum including:

Core Subjects
English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Humanities & Languages
History, Geography, Religious Studies, French, Spanish, Latin

Creative & Practical Subjects
Art and Design, Music, Drama, Home Economics, Computer Science, PE, PHSE

The curriculum is traditional in its rigour but dynamic in its relevance, continually reviewed to ensure challenge, engagement, and applicability.

To support both academic progress and social development, pupils are taught in three different groupings: Science and Maths, Humanities and Creative and Practical Subjects. This allows pupils to mix in different groups throughout the day, supporting friendships and collaboration. Maths is streamed, ensuring appropriate challenge and support for every learner.

Curriculum Carousel

In Autumn 2024, we launched our Year 7 and 8 Curriculum Carousel, a weekly rotation that gives pupils the chance to explore new interests and develop practical skills.

Each term, pupils rotate through:

  • Music Technology
  • Equestrian Studies
  • Cookery
  • Forest School
  • Careers Education

This five-week rotation model has been a huge success, offering students a chance to encounter subjects that they may not have experienced before.

Supported by Peer Mentoring

One of the most valued aspects of joining Leweston at Year 7 is the opportunity to benefit from our peer mentoring scheme. Older pupils offer guidance, encouragement, and a friendly face around school helping new joiners settle in with confidence and ease.

This culture of care and collaboration is a hallmark of Leweston life, ensuring every student feels safe, supported, and seen.

"The teaching staff set high expectations and challenge pupils whatever their level. "

Current Parent