The High School Curriculum
Key Stage 3
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9) is an important phase in a student’s educational journey, providing the bridge between Primary School and the increased academic challenge of IGCSE study. From the moment students arrive in Year 7, we are committed to ensuring they are challenged, supported and inspired as they develop into confident, resilient and independent learners.
Our curriculum is broad, balanced and ambitious, offering students the opportunity to develop their strengths, discover new interests and build the knowledge, skills and work habits needed for future success. Taught by specialist teachers, it builds on the excellent foundations established in Key Stage 2 while providing increasing academic challenge and intellectual curiosity across a wide range of subjects.
A Smooth Transition to High School
Year 7 is an exciting transitional stage between Primary School and High School. Students begin moving between specialist classrooms, managing a more varied timetable and taking greater responsibility for their learning and organisation. Throughout this transition, they are supported pastorally and academically to ensure they settle confidently into High School life.
Every student belongs to a tutor group led by a specialist Form Tutor who plays an important role in supporting wellbeing, academic progress and personal development. Form Tutors are the first point of contact for parents and work closely with students as they adjust to the demands and opportunities of High School. New students are also supported through our buddy system, helping them feel welcomed into the school community.
A Broad and Balanced Curriculum
One of our goals is to provide a broad, balanced and innovative curriculum that engages, inspires, challenges and supports students as they progress through Key Stage 3. Students study:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Art and Design
- Computing
- Drama
- French
- Geography
- History
- Music
- Physical Education
- PSHE
- Religious Education
- Spanish
- Vertical Learning
In Year 9, students also study Enterprise, which introduces concepts that support future study in Business Studies, Economics and Travel & Tourism.
Students are grouped by ability in English, Mathematics, Science and Modern Foreign Languages. This ensures the curriculum, teaching style, and pace are appropriate to each student’s needs. Under the guidance of our Support for Learning team, additional in-class and small-group support is available where appropriate.
Building Foundations for Future Success
Learning is a journey, and Key Stage 3 is an important stage of that journey. During these years, students develop key skills such as independence, resilience, organisation, critical thinking and effective study habits. These qualities provide the foundation for future academic success and support students as they prepare for the challenges of IGCSE study and beyond.
Our specialist teachers work closely with their Primary School colleagues to ensure a seamless transition from Key Stage 2, building on prior learning while introducing greater depth, challenge and subject expertise. Public examinations may still seem some way off, but the skills and work habits developed throughout Years 7 to 9 provide essential preparation for future success.
Beyond the Classroom
Students are encouraged to complement their academic studies through a wide range of enrichment opportunities. Participation in clubs, educational visits, leadership opportunities, service activities, sport and the arts helps students develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and a strong sense of community
Pastoral Care
At Cayman Prep and High School, we place great importance on student wellbeing. Through our tutor programme, PSHE curriculum, House system and pastoral support structures, students are encouraged to develop positive relationships, make responsible choices and contribute positively to school life.
We aim to create a supportive and nurturing environment where every student feels known, valued and encouraged to achieve their personal best.
Looking Ahead
Key Stage 3 provides the foundation for future success in Key Stage 4. By the end of Year 9, students have developed the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their subject choices and begin their IGCSE studies.
Explore Further
- Key Stage 4 – Learn more about our IGCSE and GCSE pathways, subject choices and examination courses.
- School Life – Discover the clubs, activities, leadership opportunities, House competitions and enrichment experiences available to High School students.