The Wider Curriculum
Welcome to the wider curriculum of West Exe School, where we passionately develop the well-rounded child through innovative programs like the West Exe Baccalaureate; empowering students in Years 9-11 with diverse choices that align with their aspirations; and fostering individual interests through our electives program. We take pride in nurturing holistic development, including a dedicated focus on sports health and nutrition, as an integral part of our commitment to instilling the essential student attributes that shape resilient, inquisitive, and socially conscious individuals.
We believe that our students have the unalienable right to a five-year learning journey which is not just about an end-point of GCSEs but a time of discovery, a time of awakening a passion for subjects, and a time for acquiring knowledge and skills which will support their futures studies and their working lives.
With this in mind, we provide a curriculum which is rich and varied and which follows the national curriculum in Years 7 and 8. As we move into year nine, we allow students to specialise in their foundation subjects, fostering that passion early, whilst providing additional curriculum time for humanities, subjects pivotal to learning about our place in the world around us.
Mathematical subjects
Students embark on a diverse academic journey through mathematical subjects that expand their horizons. In GCSE Business, students acquire practical skills and applied knowledge, navigating the complexities of the global economy. Further Maths and Statistics offer an advanced mathematical exploration, providing students with a deep understanding of these essential subjects. Join us in a learning adventure that goes beyond textbooks, empowering students for a future of limitless possibilities.
Business
Students who study Business and Enterprise become equipped with a work ready tool kit of skills and applied knowledge preparing them to embrace and understand the world economy.
Students will learn about the purpose of business activity and the role of business enterprise and entrepreneurship, alongside the dynamic nature of business. Students will know how to calculate and predict success using the industry-standard proven methods of break even, design and marketing mix.
Further Maths and Statistics
Our curriculum provides opportunities for those interested in excelling at Mathematics to learn more about and enrich their understanding of the various strands of the subject: Statistics and Probability, Geometry, Number and Algebra.
GCSE Statistics gives students a thorough understanding of the rationale and reasoning behind statistical data collection, processing and analysis. Students develop their understanding of statistical content both within and beyond the GSCE Mathematics course.
As well as complementing their GCSE Mathematics course, Further Maths introduces students to other topics that would otherwise only be seen at A level. Matrices and binomial expansion are both accessible and engaging parts of the course for all students.
Creative Technology
Our technology offer has been developed to nurture creative thinkers, problem solvers and makers. Fostering innovation and developing communication skills through exposure to a wide range of real life contexts, situations and scenarios. To enrich the students' experience by preparing them to meet the needs of a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.
iMedia
The media industry is huge. The advent of the internet has meant that the traditional media sector has evolved, and new media sectors have come into existence providing work for individual freelance creatives as well as large teams in design houses and multinational companies. In Creative iMedia we study the different Media types and learn to understand and use the different mechanisms and tools by which media is used to influence and impact audiences. In particular, we focus on graphical images and animation.
Design Technology and Engineering
Our technology curriculum provides students with a comprehensive technological knowledge base, which they will apply in a wide range of practical contexts, situations and scenarios. Students will design and make products that solve real and relevant problems, within a variety of contexts, while considering their own and others' needs, external influences, and the application of a deep theoretical understanding of processes and techniques.
The Arts
Welcome to the vibrant world of the arts, where creativity knows no bounds. In this realm of The Arts, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, honing their skills in creativity. Through Years 7 to 11, they delve into diverse mediums, techniques, and artists, crafting a unique visual language while reflecting on the world through an artistic lens.
Art and Photography
Students who study Art and Design develop curious minds that have a passion for creativity.
Students are encouraged to take risks, be ambitious and reflect on the world around them through an Art lens. The Art curriculum is led by all students learning through making and finding personal and meaningful ways to express their ideas.
The photography department’s goal is for all students to become creative individuals, to feel comfortable taking risks, and work collaboratively to support each other.
The photography curriculum is built around a combination of knowledge, skills and understanding which progressively lead to greater levels of independence, decision making and individuality throughout the course. Students are encouraged to think and speak like a photographer as they explore and respond to a given starting point.
Performing Arts
Performing Arts inspires and develops creative, well rounded individuals who have a love for the arts in all their forms.
Students will leave understanding the importance of the Performing Arts and their contribution to a civilised society. By sharing our passion for performing, it is hoped that students will be instilled with that same passion, and will carry it forward for the rest of their life
Music
Our Music curriculum at enables students to develop a broad musical knowledge, which they will be able to apply to a number of different musical contexts – both practical and theoretical.
During their five years at West Exe School students will develop their understanding of music performance, composition and music technology. They will also study different genres and styles of music from a wide range of scenarios, giving them a broad overview of music of the past, the present and how it might look different in the future.
Classical Civilisation
In Classical Civilisation, pupils delve into the stories and myths of ancient Greece and Rome. Tales of heroes, gods, and empires that reveal the values, fears and aspirations of the ancient world. Through studying literature, art, philosophy, and politics, pupils learn how these myths shaped societies and continue to influence the way we think, create, and understand humanity today.
The world around us
We take pride in providing a diverse range of subjects that encourage students to explore their self-awareness and role in the world. Courses such as Theology, Ethics and Citizenship, Sociology, and the West Exe Baccalaureate are designed to stimulate critical thinking and foster philosophical debates, empowering students to develop a deeper understanding of their surroundings.
Theology, Ethics and Citizenship
The Theology, Ethics and Citizenship course increases knowledge and understanding of significant ethical issues and develops students' appreciation of the complexities of the issues and the varied responses to them. The course is designed to develop politically aware students who are concerned with human rights and social justice, aware of the UK's role in the world and their own roles within their communities. Parents in England have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education (RE) lessons, either entirely or partially, in state-funded schools. This right is established by law, and schools must comply with such requests. While RE is a compulsory subject, parents can exercise their right to withdraw their child from the lessons. If you would like to withdraw your child please contact Deputy Headteacher Laura Jacobs.
Sociology
Sociology studies how society works and how this influences important areas of our lives. It helps students understand how individuals fit into a wider social network, and encourages them to question beliefs about society which they may have previously taken for granted.
Students will develop their analytical, assimilation and communication skills by comparing and contrasting perspectives on a variety of social issues, constructing reasoned arguments, making substantiated judgements and drawing reasoned conclusions.
The West Exe Baccalaureate
Over 5 years of study, the WEB curriculum prepares students for a“life in modern Britain by equipping them to be responsible, respectful, active citizens who contribute positively to society; developing their understanding and appreciation of diversity”.
Parents have the legal right to withdraw their children from religious education. If you wish to withdraw your child, wholly or partly, from RE lessons then you should contact us at [email protected]
Sport, Health and Nutrition
The SHN Curriculum at West Exe School develops students holistically through learning about the importance of healthy and active lifestyles and the impact on mental, and physical health and wellbeing. Our curriculum is ambitious and inspiring, and offers students the opportunity to build new skills and develop themselves personally through trying new things. It is our belief that within SHN there is something for everyone – through positive engagement and enjoyment, everyone can experience and show success!
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Food preparation and nutrition is a course designed to elevate culinary prowess and cultivate a profound understanding of the principles of food science, nutrition, and healthy eating. Dive into a hands-on experience that not only nurtures cooking skills but empowers students to make informed choices about food and nutrition. This course is a passport to acquiring the knowledge and expertise needed to create affordable, nutritious meals, ensuring that we are not only feeding ourselves but also others whilst unleashing culinary creativity.
Health and Social Care
Health and social care is a course meticulously crafted to ignite a profound understanding of the intricacies within the realm of Health and social care, unfolding its significance in our daily lives. This empowering course provides students with a gateway to explore diverse areas, from the fascinating landscape of human development to the profound exploration of care values, fostering a holistic comprehension that resonates far beyond the classroom.
Sport Studies
Sport Studies is the exploration of diverse sporting and physical activities coupled with a deep dive into the organisational intricacies of the sports sector. There are a myriad of exciting roles within the sporting world and this course will delve into contemporary issues such as the Olympics and Paralympics, the impact of drugs in sports, the integration of technology, and the barriers to participation. This course isn't just about sports; it's a journey that nurtures a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic landscape of sports, shaping well-rounded individuals ready to make a mark in this thriving industry.