The Earls High School supports students to make as much academic progress as possible, this is essential to equip them for the next stage of their education or career. We also believe that it is our duty to help them build character, so that they can communicate effectively, have resilience to carry on when things get difficult, work effectively as member of a team, perform confidently and develop their leadership skills. Thirdly we want students who leave The Earls High School to be kind, compassionate and caring individuals; people who will support and help their neighbours and make a significant positive contribution to Halesowen or whatever community they choose to live in.

Our curriculum is underpinned by the following principles:

Balance: All students study the full range of subjects until the end of Year 9. In Year 10 and 11 they will be given a wide range of options so that they can choose subject that they enjoy and are interested in.

Rigour: The curriculum is taught by subject specialists who choose content and knowledge beyond what is needed for examinations. Students are taught how to think and communicate like a subject expert

Logical sequencing: The curriculum follows a logical pathway where knowledge and skills are built on each year so that the students get better at the subject. The curriculum is structured to help students remember, not simply encounter, the core knowledge they learn.

Challenge: The content selected is ambitious so that everyone is challenged and a rich and empowering education is provided to all. Students are required to think and work hard so that resilience and independence are developed. Staff know what students are capable of achieving and have the highest expectations of them, at all times.

Inclusivity: Most teaching occurs in mixed ability grouping where all students engage with the whole curriculum. Scaffolding and support is tailored to allow all students to access the most challenging content.

What is our approach to delivering the curriculum?

Our approach is informed by Barak Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction and uses strategies that have a proven record of success. Assessment is used to inform teaching and to support learning.

We support our teachers with high quality training and aim to make their workload manageable so that their wellbeing is supported.