Stover pupils are encouraged to retain their natural curiosity throughout their time in school.
This extends through the GCSE preparation years, meaning children maintain a daily programme of discovery, both within the curriculum and through extensive enrichment activities.
Whilst study in Years 10 and 11 is inevitably more targeted, the focus is very much on the subject, rather than the exam. By doing this, we see young people self-motivated to follow their interests, remaining engaged in learning, not fatigued by assessment.
By encouraging and supporting each individual’s natural curiosity about the world, we are able to teach in a meaningful way, connecting the curriculum to real life. As a result, we make sure to continue to use the natural resources of our wonderful Stover estate throughout GCSE study, adding variety to classes and providing opportunities to learn in different ways.
The success of this approach is seen in consistently excellent annual results for Stover. We avoid setting target grades as they can often have a glass ceiling effect, so it’s a delight to see our young people move rapidly through attainment levels as they change, mature and grow.
GCSE Options – absolute freedom of choice
We feel it’s vital to provide unrestricted choice at GCSE level, rather than limiting options to predetermined groups. Each Year 9 pupil at Stover has the freedom to make any combination of subject choices – before we construct timetables around each cohort’s preferences.
All pupils study the core subjects: Maths, English Language, English Literature and Science (incorporating Physics, Biology and Chemistry either as a double award, or separate qualifications). Four individual options can then be freely selected.
Statutory PSHE lessons and a healthy sporting programme continues alongside GCSE study, fostering personal growth and wellbeing.
