Plymouth College has an outstanding track record of achieving excellent outcomes for all our pupils. We empower our pupils to develop into personable, confident and articulate young adults, to develop an inquisitive nature and appreciate the value of learning and to be able to take their place as well-informed members of society.
Senior Curriculum
Early Senior Years
In Year 7, pupils initially learn together, fostering a smooth academic and social transition. From January, we introduce gentle academic streaming, allowing us to tailor support. Throughout Years 8 and 9, broader setting is implemented in Mathematics, Science, English and Humanities. This approach ensures that each pupil progresses at a pace aligned with their abilities in these core areas. Our commitment to small class sizes means that every pupil benefits from frequent, personalised attention from their teachers, creating an environment conducive to focused learning and individual growth.
During these foundational years, pupils explore a wide array of subjects including English, Mathematics, the three separate Sciences, History, Geography and Religious Studies. They also engage with Modern Foreign Languages (French, Spanish and German), Design Technology, Computer Science, Art, Drama, Music, PE, Classical Civilisation and Latin. In Year 8, most opt for two modern languages, with Latin also available. For those who might find two languages challenging, additional English and Maths support is provided, guided by our Head of Learning Support. Year 9 offers further subject choices from the arts, enabling early focus on individual strengths and interests ahead of GCSE selections.
GCSE Pathway Choices
Years 10 and 11 mark the beginning of GCSE and IGCSE studies. While learning becomes more focused on examination preparation, we continue to provide enriching activities like drama, practical science, creative design projects and numerous curriculum-enhancing trips. Small class sizes remain a priority, ensuring personalised support for every pupil as they navigate this important stage. Academic setting is used for the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Sciences to best support progress.
All pupils undertake English Language and Literature, Mathematics and either three separate Science GCSEs or a combined science award. Additionally, they select four optional subjects and we encourage a balanced curriculum including at least one humanities subject and one Modern Foreign Language. Options include Art, Business, Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Design Technology, Drama, French, Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Spanish. Most examinations occur at Year 11’s end, though some early entries in Year 10 are possible. Our options system is flexibly redesigned annually to maximise pupil choice, with guidance provided before selections in February.
International Pupil Preparation
For international pupils joining in Year 11, we offer a dedicated one-year pre-Sixth Form course. This programme is designed to thoroughly prepare them for A Levels or the Sport Baccalaureate. Pupils integrate with their Year 11 peers for subjects like Mathematics, English and Sciences, while also receiving bespoke lessons in humanities and foreign languages. This tailored approach allows them to achieve a range of GCSE qualifications in just one year. Additional support lessons are available, ensuring the course adapts to individual pupil needs and effectively bridges them into further UK education.
Come and See Us
We warmly invite you to visit Plymouth College Senior School to experience our environment firsthand. To arrange a visit, please contact our admissions team using the email address or phone number below. Alternatively, you can click the “Arrange a Visit” button to fill out your details and a member of our team will get in touch as soon as possible to arrange a visit.
Email: admissions@plymouthcollege.com
Telephone: 01752 505120
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our community.
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