Our Curriculum

The Castle Mead Academy curriculum aims to give scholars access to the best that has been thought, said, written and created in every field of human endeavour, so that they are knowledgeable, critical and enriched. Within this broad, balanced and deep curriculum, the primacy of knowledge and critical thinking are emphasised.

Curriculum Model

The curriculum model allows the special focus on the EBacc subjects, as always intended from the original bid for CMA. The intention is for as many scholars as possible to study the EBacc to GCSE. In KS3, relative extended learning time in the core subjects, as well as French and Art, allows a tight focus on these subjects and allows depth to the curriculum. The model in KS3 will change going forward, with the introduction Design and Technology and Drama in 2021/22 (when we move into the new building).

The KS4 curriculum is provisional. The intention is for extra learning time in Science, as we aim for as many scholars as possible to study Triple Science. In line with the EBacc aims, all scholars should study either Geography or History. All scholars will study RE to GCSE and we intend for the same to be for French. Scholars should leave CMA with at least 10 or 11 qualifications.

For information on the curriculum in each of our subjects, please see the pages at the bottom of this page.

PSHE at Castle Mead

Personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education at Castle Mead Academy is a key part of our curriculum offer. At Key Stage 3, scholars build on the skills, attitudes, values, knowledge and understanding they have developed at primary school. We acknowledge the changes our scholars are experiencing, teach our pscholars to manage diverse relationships and the increasing influences of peers and the media and how to make a full and active contribution to society. At Key Stage 4, scholars extend and rehearse the skills, further explore relevant attitudes and values and further deepen knowledge and understanding around similar themes as Key Stage 3.

Our PSHE curriculum is centred around three main themes: health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world. These themes are addressed vertically throughout Key Stages 3 and 4, with topics and content we have decided to be appropriate for the age of our scholars. Our PSHE curriculum also reflects local priorities for our pupils and community.

Pupils learn about six topics per year. These topics are explored in tutor groups with their form tutors. We use calendared drop-down mornings and some Prep sessions for these PSHE lessons. The topics also complement our assembly calendar where appropriate.

Due to the ongoing importance and vigilance required around e-safety, e-safety is mapped separately alongside the PSHE curriculum for all pupils.

Throughout all themes and topics, pupils will learn how to identify and access help, advice and support.

PSHE at CMA, 2020-21

RSE at CMA