Our Citizenship curriculum is designed to develop informed, active, and responsible citizens who understand their rights, responsibilities, and the workings of society. We aim to empower students to engage with political, legal, economic, and social issues with confidence and integrity.

We offer an inclusive and thought-provoking curriculum that encourages all students to explore the values of democracy, justice, equality, and human rights. Through discussion, debate, and real-world case studies, students learn to think critically, participate actively, and make a positive contribution to their communities.

By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to:

• Understand the political system of the UK and how it operates at local, national, and international levels
• Explore the role of law, justice, and the legal system in protecting rights and maintaining order
• Analyse social and ethical issues from multiple perspectives
• Participate in democratic processes and community action
• Develop skills in debate, advocacy, and critical thinking

Our intent is to prepare students for life in modern Britain and to inspire them to become thoughtful, engaged, and socially responsible citizens.

Curriculum overview

Key Stage 3

Students build foundational knowledge of society, politics, and ethics through a range of engaging topics.

Year 7 topics:

• Rights and responsibilities
• Struggle for democracy
• Democracy today
• Debating
• Communities and being an active citizen

Year 8 topics:

• Criminal justice system
• Advocacy
• Finance
• The media
• Terrorism and topical issues

Key Stage 4

Students follow the AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies specification, which includes:

• How parliamentary democracy operates within the UK and how government works
• The relationship between the state and citizens
• How laws are made and enforced, including debates on current legal issues
• The role and operation of the criminal justice system and its effectiveness in preventing crime
• How taxes are raised and spent by governments, and how effectively public money is used

Assessment is through written exams that test knowledge, understanding, and the ability to apply concepts to real-life scenarios.

Courses offered

• GCSE Citizenship Studies

Enrichment opportunities

We offer a range of enrichment activities to support students’ development as active and informed citizens. These include:

• Debating Club: Exploring current affairs, ethical dilemmas, and political issues
• Student Council and leadership roles: Opportunities to represent peers and influence school life
• Mock elections and parliament: Simulating democratic processes and decision-making
• Visits and speakers: Trips to Parliament, courts, and local government; talks from MPs, lawyers, and activists
• Community action projects: Campaigns and volunteering to make a difference locally and globally

These experiences help students apply their learning in meaningful ways and develop the confidence to participate in society.