Shell Guide to the Curriculum 2025 - 2026

GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2024–2026

Introduction to the Shell Curriculum Knowledge and the skills to use that knowledge are fundamental to understanding the world around us and living fulfilling lives in it. Our Shell curriculum will give you the foundations in the essential subjects to flourish in your academic life, with some optionality to allow you to choose subjects that especially inspire you. This booklet explains what you will learn in each subject. We start the year by consolidating and revising the key building blocks in all subjects and move quickly

to extending, stretching and challenging pupils so that by the end of the year you will be in the best place to start your GCSEs and choose our bespoke courses. So that we can help you to learn best, you will be put into classes with other pupils who have the same level of understanding as you in the sciences, maths and languages. This enables us to tailor our teaching most effectively while ensuring that in other subjects you benefit from learning with your peers across the year group. Our School is one that celebrates success in all of its various forms. Academically, we are not just interested in those to whom top grades come easily; rather, we demand that everyone does their best and so, if you do your best, you’ll find that the whole community is right behind you and there are many support systems to help you achieve your potential. In the end, success is almost always preceded by effort and the most rewarding celebrations are those in which your hard graft has paid off. The next five years will be a real adventure and I can’t wait to see how you all get on. Good luck! David Flower Sub-Warden Academic

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Shell subject choices

Unusually for pupils in Year 9, Shells at Teddies choose which five additional subjects they would like to study, beyond an essential core :

FIVE OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (including at least one Modern Foreign Language)

CORE SUBJECTS

Mathematics English Biology Chemistry Physics Geography

French German Spanish

Ancient Greek Art and Ceramics Computer Science

History Classics Theology, Philosophy and Ethics Wellbeing Digital Literacy

Drama Design Music and Music Technology

Choosing languages All Shells must choose at least one modern language from French, Spanish and German. Continuing one and beginning another is a good option; equally, pupils who are already learning two languages and are enjoying them, are encouraged to continue to do so. All Shells will study Latin during Classics lessons, where pupils are taught with others who have a similar experience of the language (ranging from none to several years). Pupils with an aptitude for languages and an interest in the Classical World should consider taking Ancient Greek. Talented linguists may wish to start two new languages (ancient or modern) but should consider the advice of the language teachers in their current schools before making such a choice.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Maths

Algebra is the language of mathematics. It helps unlock the nuances of high level problem solving and is something that you use in everyday life. From visits to the shops, weighing luggage at the airport or deciding how much food to put on the plate, your ability to deal with something ‘unknown’ is crucial. As soon as you arrive at St Edward’s you will start working on the IGCSE Mathematics syllabus. During the first half of the Autumn Term, we will work to solidify the basics and ensure that misconceptions are discussed and minimised. You will probably have studied lots of the

fundamentals at your previous school and we will both consolidate and extend your knowledge of things like expanding brackets, collecting terms, factorising and solving linear equations. These areas are essential to your success not just in the algebraic topics (which account for 50% of the marks in the exams) but across all facets of the Mathematics syllabus. Extension materials are used throughout the course, with UKMT and nRich providing excellent sources of challenging problems to test and strengthen your mathematical reasoning.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

English English at St Edward’s combines the study of the freshest, contemporary literature and classic writers of the past. In the Autumn Term we focus on classic short stories and A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Along the way you will look at poems new and old, dealing with the themes connected with these core texts. Later in the year you will study a Shakespeare play and look at speeches from great orators of modern times.

Our underlying priority is teaching the skills needed to make a success of studying English for IGCSE, IB and A level – since the majority of our pupils choose to study English with us until the end of the Upper Sixth. We will teach you to produce clear and accurate writing, and to develop analytical reading skills and oracy.

A CHRISTMAS

CAROL

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Biology Covid-19 brought Biology to the very forefront of media headlines in the last few years and never before has there been the relevance, the interest and the extent of career opportunities in the field. Science All Shell pupils will set out on the Triple Award Science syllabus, which leads to an IGCSE in each of the three Sciences - Biology, Chemistry and Physics - each examined separately. Based on each individual pupil’s progress and internal assessment results, the Heads of Sciences will recommend which pupils proceed to complete Triple Award Science, and which undertake Double Award Science. The latter course includes content from each of the three

Sciences, with separate examinations in each, but with less syllabus content than the Triple route, and with a final award of two IGCSE grades representing an average across the three Sciences.

In the Shell year, you will begin by building on your knowledge and understanding of fundamental topics including molecules and cells. We place a lot of emphasis on the development of key practical and investigative skills, as well as data presentation and maths skills to allow you to interpret your findings. We then explore the movement of substances in both living and non-living systems. These topics cover essential concepts which will be further built upon in the Fourth and Fifth Forms. In the Summer Term, there is a focus on Ecology, with opportunities to learn outside the classroom.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Chemistry Chemistry uses scientific models to describe the behaviour of matter and its interaction with energy, and thus furthers our understanding of the world around us. The Shell Chemistry course builds upon the particle model of matter, which is the foundation of Chemistry. We put this model to the test through experiments that yield qualitative and quantitative data, which you will learn to analyse and evaluate. We encounter refinements of the model, necessary to describe more sophisticated chemical

phenomena, including the formation of compounds from elements, patterns of chemical behaviour and rates of chemical reactions. You will find out how to represent these phenomena precisely and accurately using scientific vocabulary and chemical symbolism.

how to create experiments which will test your theories and give you usable data. You will learn how to scan through information and identify trends and patterns which may exist there. Your ability to use logic will be tested through challenging preps, which may have both a mathematical and written focus. You will assess risk and participate in experiments which require careful thinking about safety. By the end of your Shell year you will have learned the basic decision-making tools which will enable you to tackle the GCSE content in the Fourth and Fifth Forms.

Physics Great physicists are able to make decisions, using logic to guide them. Our Shell curriculum is written so that you will be using equipment during almost every lesson, thinking about

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Geography

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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.

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 to urban issues and you will have the challenge of designing your own sustainable city. Increasingly, we are appreciating the importance of our ecosystems. You will have the chance to explore local ecoystems and work towards developing our own Teddies nature reserve over

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Over the Shell year you will study several topics that will be divided up into termly or half termly units. You will explore the mixing of cultures and identities in the world today,

time to encourage and protect flora and fauna in our area.

investigating issues including diversity, privilege, politics and

economics. We will move on to look at international issues including the displacement of people and stateless nations.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

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.

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.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

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CORE SUBJECTS

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Classics The study of Classics has always been strong at St Edward’s. Today, it still plays a key and integral part of our curriculum all the way through the School to university entry. In the Shell year, you all study at least one Classical subject, through a wide ranging course that embraces varying levels of language and cultural work. Following initial assessment, you will be in a class best suited to your experience and skill set, to help you develop your understanding from your own starting point. Those of you without previous experience of Latin will gain some, and many often go on to GCSE success and beyond. All the sets, irrespective of how much Latin you know, also study key aspects of Graeco-Roman culture, society, history, ideas and ideals, debating ancient attitudes, which demand to be challenged. Additionally, you can also choose to study Ancient Greek, as currently 25% of the year group do, either as a beginner (the majority) or you will be in a set with others who have already done some.

A key part of Classics at Teddies is to encourage you to engage critically with primary evidence (literary, epigraphic, archaeological and other material culture), regarding what we do and don’t know, so we go on trips to various sites and museums around the country. Your learning will be assessed at various points in the year, both formally and informally, the latter making use variously of Quizlet, Kahoot and Blooket. We also run a very active junior classical society, meeting fortnightly, called the Lower Lyne and run largely by 6th formers. This is creative, discursive and above all fun.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Theology, Philosophy and Ethics

How much can animals think? Can artificial intelligence feel? Are war and torture ever morally justified? What is the relationship between religion and science? These are just some of the questions that you will explore whilst studying Theology, Philosophy and Ethics in the Shell year. You will be able to stand on the shoulders of giants, such as Descartes, Kant, Aristotle and Aquinas, to make informed judgements and to feed your curiosity.

In the Autumn Term, the sentience and sapience unit will help you to consider what it means to be human and how similar or different we are to animals and machines. The ethics and war unit will give you an understanding of the debate surrounding the morality of war and will let you consider how it is waged with modern technology such as drones. Finally, in a unit on religion and science, you will be able to think about whether these worldviews are in competition or harmony.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Wellbeing All Shell pupils study our new, innovative and tailormade curriculum. Wellbeing at Teddies is a whole-school programme designed to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and values to lead fulfilling lives according to six pillars. Emotional intelligence Positive relationships Mindset and perspective Meaning and purpose Health Engagement In Wellbeing, prepare to take part in meaningful discussions with your teacher and peers working through an age appropriate curriculum that carefully considers learners’ development and educational needs. Each term, lessons develop through a narrative that ties in concepts from the pillars of wellbeing, the School values, and the statutory content for Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). Learning how to live well is the most important part of anyone’s personal development and so Wellbeing lessons continue throughout pupils’ time at Teddies.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

CORE SUBJECTS

Digital Literacy All pupils in the Shell take a Digital Learning course in the Autumn Term. This is split into two strands: Digital Literacy which encompasses IT skills, how to make the most of Surface Pro devices and how to communicate effectively online; and Digital Wellbeing which covers how to stay safe and healthy when using technology, the internet and artificial intelligence.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

YOU MUST CHOOSE AT LEAST ONE MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE

French French is the second most widely learned language in the world after English, and the fifth most widely spoken. With more than 220 million native speakers across more than 30 countries, it is an extremely useful language to learn. As the language of our nearest neighbour it remains highly sought-after by UK businesses. France is also the most-visited country in the world – and French is a valuable asset for those who go on to learn other Romance languages. During the Shell year, we will encourage and inspire you to be curious about the language and francophone culture. The course tackles the first theme of the GCSE course (People and lifestyle) and builds solid foundations in grammar and language specific skills. This is a continuation course and previous knowledge of French is preferred.

At Teddies, all pupils study at least one of French, Spanish and German until Sixth Form. In the Shell, pupils are prepared for the GCSE courses with the foundations of the languages. Shell pupils usually continue studying a language or languages that they already have studied and may take up new ones. Typically, French is studied by pupils with some prior experience of learning it; German and Spanish are often taken up as new languages.

German

Over 100 million people in Europe speak German as their mother tongue. This makes it the most widely spoken language on the continent. German is the official language in Germany and Austria and is also spoken widely in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg and Belgium; it is learnt and spoken by a great many people around the world, too. Looking ahead to your life beyond

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YOU MUST CHOOSE AT LEAST ONE MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE

good amount of the basic grammar. You will be expected to keep on top of your weekly assignments and to consolidate your knowledge between lessons. The German Society runs regular cultural and social activities which all pupils learning German in the School are encouraged to attend.

Spanish Spanish has become one of the most popular languages to study in the UK. It is the second most-spoken language in the world, with over 485 million native speakers globally, and is the official language of 20 different countries. Studying the language gives you the opportunity to discover the different cultures and customs of the Spanish-speaking world and has many benefits in later life, especially if you are considering working internationally or in the Americas. For those who have already studied the language, the Spanish programme for Shells builds on your previous learning, while beginners who have no previous experience form most of the cohort language by British employers. In the Shell year you will learn to talk all about yourself, your home, your friends, family, school, hobbies, food and holidays. You will quickly become familiar with a wide range of vocabulary and phrases, and master a school and university, German is the number one most sought-after foreign

in Spanish. You will learn to express yourself on a range of useful topics, which provides the groundwork for GCSE should you decide to continue into the Fourth Form and beyond.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Ancient Greek

St Edward’s is one of relatively few schools where you can either continue or start to learn Classical Greek. This is an option you can choose and is in addition to studying another classical subject. You are encouraged to do this if your study of Latin or Modern Languages has been going well for you up to now and you enjoy word and mathematical puzzles. We run multiple sets for those with some or no experience, and you can move between sets according to your progress. We use a modern course which, while introducing all the linguistic forms, does so through mythological and historical contexts. It complements study in Latin and leads through to Greek GCSE as an option in the Fourth Form (Year 10).

Why Learn Ancient Greek today? It provides a gateway to understanding the foundations of our modern civilisation, permitting access to its richly varied literature, history, politics and philosophy, all of which merit our critical evaluation. It serves to bridge the gap between ancient and modern thought and serves to challenge our assumptions about our own times. The study of this language fosters critical thinking and linguistic precision, cultivating analytical skills applicable to various disciplines and remains impressive to universities and future employers.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Art and Ceramics Art - In the first project, ‘Everyday Objects’ , Shells will be exploring fundamental skills of observational and imaginative drawing working from still-life structures. They will encounter the work of different artists who use similar processes, and will be able to visually analyse their works using art terminology. In the second project, ‘Patterns’ , pupils learn about patterns across time and cultures. This starting point develops their knowledge of society, culture and spiritual/moral links within art. Pupils will design patterns for poly block and lino prints, developing their ability to create symmetrical compositions whilst understanding the importance colour has when producing multiple block prints. In the final project ‘Architecture’, pupils will produce etchings in response to the work of John Piper. Using the School buildings as inspiration, pupils will learn the technical processes before developing their prints and being more experimental with their imagery, exploring various mixed media and resist techniques. Ceramics - During the first project in Ceramics the Shells abstract the textures and silhouette for a slab-built vase from images

Project two sees the pupils design and build a ‘Component Vessel’ . Using terracotta clay, they bring together pinched, thrown, extruded, and slump moulded elements, and decorate with reference to English slipware. In the summer the Shells produce a ‘Pop-Art Plate’ , focusing on surface decoration using a limited palette and slip stencilling. Pupils will learn about 1960s America and develop their own highly stylised designs. Each Shell will have the opportunity to throw on the potter’s wheel and will learn the basics of glazing. Regular class critiques in Art and Ceramics will encourage debate, peer support and collaboration, as well as enhancing analytical and verbal communication skills.

of ‘Natural Growth’. They learn to manage the material of clay and become familiar with both the layout and presentation of contextual content in their sketchbooks.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Computer Science

We are excited to be teaching Computer Science at Teddies and have an inspiring array of projects for you to engage with in the year ahead. The focus of the course will be on coding and programming to solve real world problems in the School and the community. Pupils will tackle these practical tasks individually and in small groups. Building adaptive greenhouses that can detect temperature and climactic conditions is just one example of the sort of project on which you will work. The aim of these projects is to give Shells an excellent grounding in coding and informatics, leaving them ready to embark on the GCSE course or to apply their skills outside the classroom. We run a Computer Science society where you can continue to grow and develop your passion for the subject outside the timetabled lessons. We welcome all pupils, including those not taking Computer Science in the Shell.

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OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Drama

Drama is a subject which allows pupils’ creativity to flourish, igniting their imaginations. Our Drama curriculum offers more than just theatrical education – it provides a platform for students to express, develop and share ideas in a collaborative space. This space serves as a breeding ground for the superb productions and performances that Teddies is renowned for. Our first year pupils are exposed to a wide range of theatre-making contexts. The first term focuses on introducing students to collaborative ways of creating theatre. They work together to explore themes, topics, and the world around them. Pupils also work alongside the School’s theatre production team, gaining hands-on experience in direction, design, and production. They have sessions in The North Wall, the on-site theatre, devising and exploring scripts and characters to develop a play. In the second term, we explore a professional play text and devise work for the stage from engaging, relatable stimuli. In the third term, we consolidate this by exploring exciting elements of theatre history.

As Shells progress through the Drama curriculum, they will develop confidence and communication skills through teamwork and fun improvisation games and performances before moving on to script work. Our Drama programme is designed to inspire, challenge and develop pupils’ creativity, and to foster a lifelong love of theatre. The skills and knowledge gained from the Drama programme will enable students to become well-rounded and empathetic individuals, equipping them with the tools needed to thrive both academically and professionally.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Design Creativity is at the heart of Design and Technology and at Teddies, our Shell curriculum is no different. Fusing together technical skill and creative confidence, the course encourages students to push boundaries and try new experiences. Through project based learning, students are introduced to a wide range of skills, from traditional craftsmanship to innovate, cutting-edge technology. Throughout the year, students will learn the art of sketching, develop 3D models using CAD software and bring their designs to life with 3D printing. They will explore jewellery smithing and metal casting, where they will

craft intricate pieces with precision and care. Engineering challenges will encourage teamwork and critical thinking as students design and build functional prototypes. Lastly, through user experience (UX) design projects, students will learn how to create products that not only look great but are intuitive and user-friendly. This course will help students build a strong foundation in design thinking, preparing them for our Design and Jewellery Entrepreneurship pathway courses in the fourth form.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Music and Music Technology The Shell Music and Music Technology curriculum enables pupils to explore a wide range of musical styles and genres, looking at music from genres including classical music, jazz, theatre, film, pop and rock, as well as music technology, including learning to use our excellent studio facilities. This is a course which is perfect for those that already have musical skills – perhaps you are a

The course includes surveys of the history of classical and popular music styles, and it then focuses on music in the 20th and 21st centuries, including modules on minimalism and the links to EDM, the development of orchestral music, film composition, and studio techniques and remixes. There is a direct link between what you learn in Shells, and the courses offered in Fourth Form: you will find yourself well prepared for GCSE Music (which focuses on performing, composing and analysis) and for the Music and Music Technology Pathway (which focuses on DAW composition, recording, studio engineering and analysis).

performer with an interest in singing or instrumental skills, a composer who writes their own songs, or a music tech engineer that enjoys being in the studio. But it’s also a course for those that have never had the chance to study the subject properly, with opportunities to engage in all these areas and find individual strengths and talents. In analysing different tracks and researching various performers, there is a chance for all pupils to study music they are familiar with and music they have never heard before, gaining the skills to describe, understand, replicate and develop ideas creatively.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2025–2026

St Edward’s School Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 7NN stedwardsoxford.org

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2023-2024