Seniors
Pupils of Argyle House School have a guaranteed place in our Year 7 class and is a popular entry point for students. New pupils join our existing cohort with great ease, seamlessly joining the Argyle House School family.
MATHEMATICS
In Mathematics, the emphasis is on a mixed approach with traditional and modern techniques used, where children are taught to their own ability. There is an emphasis upon mental skills and using these to solve problems.
MODERN LANGUAGES
French is a compulsory subject to GCSE, because being competent in a Eurpoean Language is vital in many areas of work today. The department is equipped with specialised equipment, and computer programs to support learning. Yearly trips to Paris, help to emphasis the importance of the subject.
SCIENCE
All children study the separate sciences; Chemistry, Biology and Physics, within a fully equipped laboratory, which includes its own computer system and software; children also investigate scientific theories through practical lessons, and these are reinforced by visits to industrial and ecological centres.
MUSIC
This is taught to every senior child, where every child is equipped with their own keyboard or other musical instrument to allow them the best opportunity to learn.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
The Information Technology room is equipped with the latest PC hardware and software. There is a PC for every child. All the children participate in ICT lessons throughout the Senior Department, but are taught beyond the requirements of a GCSE examination, to stand them in good stead for any future employment or university. This resource is used throughout the curriculum to further enhance learning. The internet is readily available and every child will be given an e-mail account when entering the school; this is to allow the work to be sent home directly.
ART
In Art and Design, pupils are taught to develop skills in order to be able to explore new ideas. The children investigate different techniques from observational drawing to developing watercolour skills.
HOME ECONOMICS
This is taken by all the children to allow a basic understanding and knowledge of food science. This is only taught to the end of Year 9.
ENGLISH
This is studied within a traditional, formal framework, employing a variety of strategies, including didactic teaching, discussion, group work, debate, TV and theatre visits. Thus, children acquire the skills necessary for their GCSEs and wider lives.
DRAMA
Work within Drama is designed to complement, contribute and support the general aims of the school. Pupils of all abilities are encouraged to fully develop both academically and socially. The family values of caring and respect which are an important part of the school ethos are also important values within the Drama Department.
PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION
This is taught as an individual subject. The children have the opportunity to discuss relevant issues or design information leaflets. Many outside agencies help with the successful deployment of this subject.
HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY
Children learn to understand the consequences of social and cultural values in historical events. Interpretative and analytical skills are acquired whilst studying Geography. This promotes a sound basis for the knowledge and understanding needed in Year 11 for GCSEs and adult life.
CAREERS
From Year 9 onwards, the children participate in careers talks to help determine the occupation/vocation they may wish to pursue in the future. This is carried out by the careers advisor and Connexions. This process culminates in Year 11 with individual interviews. These are then followed up by parental consultation with the Head Teacher to ensure that the best result is achieved and that each child’s ‘Action Plan’ provides a clear focus for a successful future. The children also undergo a week of Work Experience in Year 11, where the main objective is to gain an understanding of the skills required for that given field.
SPORT
Sport is enjoyed by every child, where the child takes part in skill based lessons, and gradual integration of competitive team games. Sport lessons are conducted in the sports hall and at Silksworth Sports Complex. Swimming is taught throughout the school calendar for children from 4 years upwards. The children have regular games with other local schools as well as inter-house school competitions, which run throughout the school calendar.
Two major sporting events in the school calendar are the Swimming Gala and Sports Day, where parents are invited to attend and offer their support at these enjoyable events.
Teams; U11 Football, Netball and Cross Country; U13 and U16 Rugby; U13 and U15 Netball; U13 and U15 Basketball (Boys and Girls); U13 and U16 Football (Boys and Girls); U13 and U15 Tennis (Boys and Girls) Cricket.
