Curriculum

Our curriculum is ambitious, broad and carefully sequenced to support both academic achievement and personal growth. It empowers pupils to develop confidence in their own values and beliefs while fostering respect, empathy and understanding towards others. Through a strong focus on diversity, emotional literacy and effective communication, pupils are equipped to engage positively and thoughtfully in a wide range of situations.

Our personal development programme further strengthens pupils’ physical and emotional well-being, helping them to build resilience, self-esteem and independence. The curriculum sensitively incorporates Relationship and Sex Education, with topics being taught in line with our Islamic ethos. Together, these experiences enable pupils to make informed choices, take responsibility for their learning and develop the skills needed to thrive in both their immediate community and the wider world.

Years 7 – 9

At KD Grammar School for Boys, our curriculum is carefully structured to provide pupils with a strong foundation of knowledge, skills and understanding upon which further learning can be developed. We aim to deliver a broad, balanced and challenging curriculum that encourages academic excellence, develops intellectual curiosity and prepares pupils for the next stage of their education.

Throughout Years 7 – 9, pupils study a wide range of subjects, allowing them to explore different areas of learning, discover their strengths and develop their interests. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that knowledge and skills are built upon progressively, enabling pupils to make meaningful connections between subjects and develop confidence in their learning.

In Years 7 and 8, Science is taught as a combined subject, introducing pupils to the fundamental principles of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. From Year 9 onwards, each science specialism is taught separately, allowing pupils to develop a deeper understanding of each discipline and preparing them for GCSE study.

Our Modern Foreign Languages provision offers pupils the opportunity to develop their linguistic skills and cultural awareness. In Year 7, pupils are introduced to both Spanish and Urdu, providing them with an opportunity to experience each language before selecting one to study in greater depth from Year 8.

Arabic is taught throughout Years 7 – 9 to not only develop pupils’ conversational skills, but also to support their ability to engage with the Qur’an and strengthens the connection between their linguistic development and Islamic education.

Pupils also study Islamic Studies to develop their knowledge and understanding of Islamic beliefs, practices, history and teachings. Through exploring a range of topics, pupils are encouraged to reflect on how Islamic principles can be applied to their everyday lives, helping them to develop their character, strengthen their faith and deepen their understanding of their responsibilities as Muslims.

Alongside academic learning, our PSHE curriculum reflects the school’s Islamic ethos and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. We place importance on nurturing pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and personal development, equipping them with the knowledge, character and skills to make a positive contribution to society.

Subjects Taught

Arabic
Art
English
Geography
History
Islamic Studies
Mathematics
Physical Education
PSHE
Qur’an
Religious Studies
Science
Spanish
Urdu

Years 10 & 11

In Years 10 and 11, the curriculum builds upon the knowledge and skills developed during their earlier years. Pupils study a combination of core subjects and GCSE options, allowing them to pursue their individual interests and strengths whilst maintaining a broad and balanced education. Teaching becomes increasingly focused on developing subject knowledge, critical thinking, independent learning and examination skills, ensuring pupils are well prepared for their GCSE examinations.

Alongside their academic studies, pupils continue to study Qur’an throughout Years 10 and 11, further developing their recitation, memorisation and understanding of the Qur’an. This reflects the school’s commitment to ensuring that spiritual development remains an integral part of pupils’ education as they progress through their GCSE years.

In Years 10 and 11, PSHE lessons explore increasingly complex and relevant topics, equipping pupils with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to navigate the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood. Building upon the foundations established in earlier years, pupils develop a deeper understanding of areas such as financial literacy, ethical decision-making, healthy relationships, mental health and wellbeing, and the importance of health screening and preventative healthcare.

Pupils study nine GCSE subjects, combining core academic disciplines with personalised choices.

Core Subjects: English Language & Literature
Mathematics
Science (Separate & Combined)
Religious Studies

Optional Subjects: Art & Design
Business Studies
Citizenship
Computer Science
Geography
History
Modern Foreign Languages: Arabic, Spanish, Urdu

Personal Development Curriculum

Alongside examined subjects, pupils study:
Islamic Studies
Qur’an
Physical Education
PSHE

These areas develop essential life skills, including resilience, critical thinking, communication and emotional wellbeing, while strengthening spiritual awareness and moral responsibility.