As children reach the age of 11, they will begin transitioning to secondary school, and a whole new phase of their lives. As secondary school is the beginning of key stage 3, their education and curriculum will begin to broaden and become more difficult and exploratory. While primary school education revolves around the three Rs – Reading, Writing, Arithmetic – secondary school includes this plus much more.
English is split into language and literature, exploring the intricacies of grammar, spelling, pronunciation, and analysis of writing techniques and how to emulate them. Whereas literature will explore different themes, writing techniques, character development, and deeper meaning within the text. This is then explored using essays and analytical thinking.
Maths becomes much more than arithmetic, delving into the world of algebra, trigonometry, graphs, and probability. Many s
chools will separate maths classes into various levels so that like-skilled students are seated together and can learn at a similar appropriate pace.
Other subjects are also foreign languages like French, German, or Spanish; Science which is split up into Chemistry, Physics, and Biology; Home Economics; Geography which explores environmental issues, different cultures, land formations, and people; History; Religious Education; Physical Education which comprises different sports like badminton, football, hockey, as well as dance; Art; Drama; Music; Information Technology; and Design and Technology. These subjects broaden students’ understanding of the world around them, develops their physical and mental skills, prepares them for further education and working life, and allows them to interact and develop social skills.