Girls First: Empowered, Encouraged, Engaged
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Lessons are lively and engaging, with discussion, collaboration and independent thinking at their heart. Teachers encourage students to embrace challenge, take intellectual risks and learn with confidence.
Year 9 still provides a broad curriculum, spanning Modern Languages and Latin to Geography, Sciences, Design Technology and Music. Every subject is designed to help students discover new interests and strengths to make informed GCSE subject choices.
By combining academic ambition with creativity, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and mindset they need to flourish in the Upper School.. This strong foundation prepares every student for the opportunities and challenges of GCSE and A Level study.
The Year 9 scheme of work sets out broad themes which can be extended for those students who work at a faster pace or require more challenge. There is a full scholars’ programme, and the studios are often open during breaks, lunchtime and after school with staff on hand to assist those who wish to continue their classwork. The Art department always strives to help each individual have a sense of achievement in making and creating artwork. The practical needs of those who find physical tasks difficult are addressed individually, and all schemes of work can be adapted to individuals to allow for specific needs, with teachers building differentiation and extension tasks into every lesson.
Year 9 Computing is a creative and empowering subject that brings together the academic rigour of Computer Science, practical digital skills and a thoughtful understanding of how technology shapes our world. Having built strong foundations in Years 7 and 8, students are now ready to take their coding further by writing more complex programmes using advanced techniques and approaching real problems with genuine confidence and understanding. In Year 9, students design and build websites and explore cybersecurity, which is one of the most important and fastest-growing areas in the technology industry.
Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of dance through a variety of styles and techniques. They will develop an understanding of key vocabulary and explore different creative processes within dance. Additionally, students will learn the essential principles of choreography, enabling them to create and organise their own dance works.
Through a variety of creative and practical activities, students develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required to engage confidently in the processes of designing and making. Using creativity and imagination, students will design and create products for a range of contexts, considering not only their own needs but also those of others. Students will acquire a broad base of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as Mathematics, Science, Engineering, Computing and Art.
Drama offers a unique learning experience, with lessons that are practical and exploratory in nature. Group work forms the foundation of each session, encouraging students to take responsibility for shaping outcomes. With guidance from their teachers, they learn to collaborate effectively and work successfully as part of a team. During Year 9, the aim of the Drama department is to provide all students with a range of drama techniques that will prepare them for Drama GCSE. This will take place in devising groups where students learn how to create their own plays. Students also explore play texts using acting exploratory exercises, enabling them to interpret classical and modern plays.
Reading is central to the study of English, and students are encouraged to read widely, selecting both fiction and nonfiction texts that provide an appropriate level of challenge, both in class and independently. In English lessons, students are invited to share their own experiences and opinions during discussions on a variety of issues raised by the texts studied. The curriculum is designed around engaging units that explore a range of debates, both topical and timeless. Through this approach, students will develop greater confidence as readers and speakers, gaining a strong understanding of functional, transactional, and literary language.
If English is not a student’s first language, the EAL Department provides tailored support to help them achieve their full potential across the wider curriculum. A specialist EAL teacher works closely with students to develop their English language skills, encouraging independent learning habits alongside building confidence in the four key areas of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. In addition to timetabled English language support (which may replace a Modern Foreign Language or Latin), private weekly lessons are available on an individual or small-group basis. Many students choose to take these sessions to further enhance their proficiency in English.
The study of modern foreign languages from Years 7 to 9 plays a vital role in developing students’ communication skills, critical thinking and cultural awareness. It provides unique insights into other societies and cultures that can only be fully appreciated through the study of their languages, enriching students’ lives and broadening their horizons. The programme is designed to build on prior language learning and cultural knowledge in an interactive, communicative and intellectually stimulating way. Through this approach, students develop confidence and competence in the four key skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing across at least two foreign languages.
Geography in Year 9 enables students to explore and discover a wide variety of both physical and human topics. The focus is on fostering a genuine interest in the world around them while providing exciting and stimulating learning experiences. Building on what was learnt in the Lower School, students develop the essential skills and knowledge required to succeed in GCSE Geography and beyond.
It nurtures students’ curiosity and develops skills across three dimensions: mentally (‘Head’), emotionally (‘Heart’) and physically (‘Hands’). The well-rounded experiences gained throughout the Lower School and Year 9 equip students with a broad range of valuable skills to carry forward into their future endeavours.
—ISI Nov 2021—
Studying History at Roedean equips students with skills that extend beyond the study of the past. The ability to analyse and prioritise information is essential for effective decision-making and valuable across many careers. Understanding current affairs and engaging meaningfully in discussions requires knowledge of history, as contemporary events are shaped by what has come before. By examining the histories of different cultures, students develop insight into why people behave as they do.
The Year 9 Latin course builds on the work of the Lower School as pupils continue to broaden their knowledge of the language and culture of Ancient Rome. Students will hone their analytical and problem-solving skills through translation work and develop their linguistic skills through mastering the vocabulary.
Through the study of Mathematics, students are encouraged to foster rational thinking and develop an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. The curriculum promotes intellectual curiosity and equips learners with the skills needed to be critical observers and problem solvers. It encourages experimentation with new ideas, pattern recognition and logical reasoning through complex situations, all within a supportive and positive environment where all ideas are valued and mistakes are embraced as essential steps towards deeper understanding.
Music at Roedean is lively, engaging and inclusive. All students in Year 9 study Music as part of the standard curriculum. Projects are designed for all students, not just those who already play an instrument, and include a wide range of differentiation. The curricular work in music lessons is enhanced through the provision of music workshops for all students. The Music curriculum focuses on building confidence in understanding the core musical elements: timbre, dynamics, duration, pulse, metre, pitch, melody, tonality, harmony, texture and structure, while developing the musical skills of listening, creating and performing.
The Year 9 PE curriculum is designed to promote competitive experiences and foster a lifelong enjoyment of sport and physical activity. Single PE lessons focus on exploration, skill acquisition and confidence building across a variety of individual and foundational activities. Double PE lessons aim to develop competitive spirit through team sports, while promoting inclusivity, resilience and personal growth, empowering all students to excel both individually and as part of a team.
The PSHE curriculum for Year 9 marks an important transition as students begin Upper School. It is designed to equip them with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to manage increasing independence, responsibility and academic challenge. Students explore a wide range of relevant, age-appropriate topics, with opportunities for open discussion and thoughtful reflection. All lessons are delivered by experienced teachers in a positive and supportive environment that encourages curiosity, respect and participation.
Religion and Philosophy at Roedean offers students the opportunity to explore the major faiths alongside the philosophical and ethical questions that arise for all people. All students in Year 9 study Religion and Philosophy as part of the standard curriculum. Lessons emphasise evaluative exploration of different religions, belief systems, concepts and practices. Students of all faiths and none are encouraged to express and reflect on their own beliefs as well as those of others.
The Year 9 Science course at Roedean has been carefully designed in-house to nurture curiosity and a passion for discovery. Through supportive and engaging lessons, students are encouraged to explore scientific concepts and develop practical skills, building a strong foundation of confidence for GCSE Science. Extensive practical work is embedded throughout the course to develop essential skills, boost confidence and foster a love of hands-on learning and investigation. Students will have one 50-minute lesson for each of the three sciences.
The study of modern foreign languages in Years 7 to 9 plays a vital role in developing students’ communication skills and critical thinking. It also offers valuable insight into other societies and cultures that can only be fully appreciated through language learning, enriching students’ overall experience. The programme aims to build on students’ existing language knowledge and cultural understanding in an interactive, communicative and challenging way. This approach ensures students gain confidence in the four key skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing, in at least two foreign languages, providing a strong foundation in preparation for GCSE.
—ISI 2025—
