Shell Guide to the Curriculum 2026-2027

CORE SUBJECTS

CORE SUBJECTS

Geography

History The Shell History curriculum has been devised around three key principles: to give pupils a rich sense of belonging by developing a deep knowledge of the history of Oxford and School, to prepare them for the study of History at IGCSE and beyond, and to engage pupils in understanding matters from the past that enable them to participate in important conversations today.

A CHRISTMAS

In Spring, the focus is on urban environments. Having established a grounding in urban planning, you will work creatively to develop your own urban environments within the context of planning principles and urban design. Finally, in the Summer Term, Shells look at coastal environments around the world. You will consider the physical processes and landscapes of coastal environments, different ecosystems from mangroves to coral reefs, the threats to these precious ecosystems and how

Geography is the study of the world around us and the ways in which people interact with it. This means that you can’t go anywhere or do anything without experiencing geography, whether it be the food that you eat, travelling on holiday, scrolling on the internet or even playing sport. Our mission as a department is to equip you with the skills to understand your daily experiences of geography and to inspire you to study it further.

In the Autumn Term you will study the history of Oxford and St Edward’s place within it. You will then study the impact of the First World War with particular reference to the School archives and the experience of former Teddies pupils. You’ll have the opportunity to create your own research project on the war, developing your sources skills and knowledge. In the Spring Term the focus is on the study of the Russian Revolution and the emergence of communism in Russia at the turn of the 20th century. This topic provides an excellent preparation for IGCSE work on the Soviet Union from 1924 and will help you develop important analytic skills. Finally, in the Summer Term you will complete a study of the British Empire and the slave trade from the 17th to 19th centuries. We take seriously the responsibility of using the History curriculum to educate pupils about fascinating events from the past, but also to equip them with the knowledge that will make them tolerant and inclusive citizens in today’s world.

CAROL

57% (and growing!) of the world’s population live in cities - can we make their lives more sustainable? We will look at the people producing solutions

they are managed around the world.

to urban issues and you will have the challenge of designing your own sustainable city.

In the Autumn Term, Shells explore the concept of development in action. You will learn about countries and cultures around the world and how they are growing. You will also question what development means and critically evaluate efforts to develop around the world.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2026–2027

GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2026–2027