The aims of Bellerive FCJ Catholic College are:
- Help everyone within a caring community to grow in faith
- Respect and value other cultures and faiths
- Make the most of every given ability
- Enjoy and achieve personal growth and academic excellence
- Prepare pupils for their adult life, playing a full part in a modern global society
Our curriculum operates in the context of our FCJ charisma and values which place companionship, dignity, excellence, gentleness, justice and hope at the core.
Curriculum Intent
At Bellerive FCJ Catholic College, our curriculum is broad, balanced and ambitious for every student. It incorporates the aims and aspirations of the National Curriculum and is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and experiences they need for their next steps in education, employment and training. Inspired by the Gospel and grounded in the FCJ values of companionship, dignity, excellence, justice, hope and gentleness, our curriculum supports students to become their “best self”: resilient, compassionate, thoughtful young people who use their gifts and talents in the service of others.
Our curriculum is carefully sequenced so that learning in each subject builds systematically on prior knowledge and understanding. This enables students to become increasingly fluent and confident in every subject discipline, developing a secure schema over time. It offers a wide range of academic, creative, technical and vocational subjects so that all students achieve personal and academic excellence and are well prepared for the next stage of their education or training. Our curriculum is inclusive by design, created to enable all learners to thrive. We recognise that our young people have differing needs, gifts and talents and through carefully planned adaptations, targeted support and a culture of high expectation, we ensure that every student can access and succeed in the full curriculum.
The development of students’ cultural and spiritual capital is at the core of our curriculum. Learning in the classroom is enriched by an extensive programme of extracurricular activities, retreats, chaplaincy opportunities, visiting speakers and educational visits. These experiences enable students to encounter diverse people, places and perspectives and to understand their responsibilities in a modern, global society. We provide opportunities to develop the whole person, recognising that each individual has skills and interests which should be nurtured, supported and celebrated. Ultimately, we want our students to leave Bellerive with a strong sense of purpose, rooted in faith and ready to embrace the future with courage, confidence and a zest for life.
If you require any further information about our curriculum please email contactus@bellerivefcj.org
Key Stage 3 Curriculum
At Key Stage 3, all students follow a rich and ambitious curriculum that gives them a strong foundation for future learning. Key Stage 3 is a three-year programme that seeks to build upon the progress, skills and knowledge pupils have made at Key Stage 2. We believe Key Stage 3 is an important time for students to explore a wide range of subjects, discover their strengths and interests, and build the knowledge and skills they need before making more specialised choices at Key Stage 4.
Every student studies the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Religious Education, Physical Education and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education). Beyond the core subjects, pupils develop language skills through a Modern Foreign Language and deepen their understanding of people and places through History and Geography. Students also have regular opportunities to build creativity and confidence through the Creative Arts (Art, Music and Drama) and to develop practical and digital skills through the study of Design Technology, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Textiles and Computing.
Key Stage 3 lays the essential groundwork for Key Stage 4, while also helping students to recognise their own talents and passions so that, when the time comes, they can make confident and informed subject choices for their next stage of learning.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
At Key Stage 4, students build on their KS3 learning and begin to personalise their educational journey. In Years 10 and 11, students follow our Key Stage 4 curriculum, which combines a strong academic core with a broad range of GCSE options.
All pupils study a core curriculum that includes:
· English Language and English Literature
· Mathematics
· Science (either Combined Science: Trilogy worth two GCSEs, or Separate Sciences leading to three GCSEs)
· Religious Education
· Physical Education
· PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education)
Alongside the core curriculum, students can choose from a wide range of additional subjects, including Languages, Humanities, Creative Arts, Technology, Business and vocational qualifications such as Sports Studies and Health and Social Care. Students can build a programme that includes a mixture of traditional GCSEs and vocational qualifications, giving every student the opportunity to experience and succeed in a variety of different subjects and pathways.
Our Key Stage 4 curriculum is supported by strong guidance and pastoral care. Students receive personalised support in choosing their subjects, ensuring their choices are ambitious and align with their long-term goals. Careers education and leadership opportunities are integrated throughout, helping students to see the link between their studies and future aspirations.
Key Stage 5 Curriculum
We offer a wide range of Level 3 courses that enables all students to choose a Post 16 pathway that supports their individual strengths and aspirations. Students can follow one of three options: a full A level programme, Applied General Qualifications or a blended pathway that combines both. With a wide choice of qualifications, including all the facilitating subjects at A level, students can shape a curriculum that keeps future options open and supports their next steps into higher education, apprenticeships, or employment.
Learning at Bellerive goes well beyond the classroom. Our Personal Development programme and rich extra-curricular offer provide countless opportunities for students to grow in confidence and character. Through leadership roles, trips and independent learning opportunities, students develop the skills they need to thrive as resilient, reflective young adults. We also place real value on citizenship and social responsibility, with students encouraged to get involved in charity events and community initiatives that help them make a meaningful difference while building teamwork, empathy and a strong sense of purpose.
From the point of application, every student is supported to choose the right pathway and subjects for their interests, abilities, and ambitions, maximising both enjoyment and achievement and ensuring they leave Bellerive prepared for success in life beyond sixth form.