Our Curriculum
Our curriculum structure is designed and has been developed to meet the needs and the context of our students and to deliver the whole school Curriculum Intent.
Our students engage in a five year learning journey designed to ensure depth, breadth and the development of knowledge which is essential to engage pupils in learning beyond their exams. However, our embedding of recall and developing students long term memory within our curriculum plans, allow all students to make the necessary progress which will maximise their success at GCSE and provide a strong platform for further study, employment and beyond.
Our Curriculum model ensures students study a broad range of subjects: to widen their knowledge; make connections and develop cultural capital; emphasise British Values and a thorough personal development education. The time allocated for all subjects is generous with each lesson being 75 minutes which we have developed to ensure students can consolidate key knowledge and complete independent work building their resilience.
At the end of KS3, students select those subjects they want to study in more depth and for which they have a passion. Beyond the core curriculum offer.
Winterhill Subject Timetable 2025/26
Y9 Options Process
At Winterhill School, our Year 9 options process is carefully designed to help students make informed and confident choices as they move into Key Stage 4.
Students are introduced to all option subjects through assemblies, lessons and detailed presentations, supported by a comprehensive options booklet outlining course content, assessment and future pathways. Time is built in for students to discuss their ideas with subject teachers, form tutors and families before completing a suggested options form.
Y9 parents and carers are invited to attend our Options Evening in the summer term, where they can ask questions and receive guidance from faculty leaders before final choices are made together. Students select three option subjects and a reserve, alongside a strong core curriculum, ensuring a broad, balanced and aspirational programme of study that prepares them well for Years 10 and 11 and beyond.
Winterhill Options booklet 2026
