Year 9

Year 9 is a pivotal year, when children begin to prepare for their GCSE options and start building a foundation for their future academic path.

Year 9 Future Building Programme

Our bespoke Year 9 programme will set a strong foundation for your child’s GCSE studies, to ensure that they excel: teaching young learners how to be organised, to engage actively in their learning, developing good study habits, instilling curiosity, and using teenage brain-friendly approaches to learning.

Year 9 can be challenging, as it bridges the gap between lower school and the more focused GCSE years. At St Edward’s, we will support you to adapt to more structured learning and increased academic expectations.

Our Approach

Our approach ensures that this is an exciting year of growth and exploration, preparing students for the challenges ahead.

Pupils continue to study core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and Languages. These subjects provide a broad base of knowledge, essential for future studies.

Pupils have the opportunity to choose some subjects that particularly interest them, tailoring their education to their individual strengths and passions.

The Year 9 programme focuses on developing essential skills like critical thinking, independent research, and effective communication. These skills are crucial for succeeding in GCSEs, and beyond.

Year 9 is also a time for personal growth and exploration, and so students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, sports, or clubs, to discover new interests and talents.

Personalised Guidance

We offer personalised guidance sessions and career advice to help students make informed GCSE choices. While it’s early to make definitive career choices, exploring different careers can be inspiring, and setting personal and academic goals is essential to achieving success.

Adolescence can be a challenging time emotionally. Our staff are equipped to be aware of signs of stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues, and to respond with care, compassion and meaningful strategies. We provide high quality pastoral care, which is fundamental for laying the foundations of a balanced approach, to maintain motivation and prevent burnout.

Year 9 sets the stage for children’s future academic achievements and personal development. At St Edward’s, all students are able to embrace the opportunities we offer and enjoy the journey to success.