Hazlehead Academy

Curriculum Structure

Years 1 and 2

In Years 1 and 2, all pupils follow a common course which is based upon the nationally agreed 5-14 structure. Years 1 and 2 are arranged in three broad ability bands. An upper group, a middle group and a supported group. The resources of the Learning support department are focused on the last group. Allocation of pupils to bands is on based on consultation with, and advice from our primary colleagues and the level of attainment of pupils at primary. The number of subjects, and therefore the number of teachers, has been reduced from 16 to 11. English, Maths, Modern Languages, Art, Science, Social Subjects, P.E. and P.S.E. are the core subjects to be studied in S1 and S2. Of the remaining six subjects, RME, Music and I.T. are taught only in S1, while Technology, Drama and Home Economics are taught only in S2.

The middle and upper bands will have the same curriculum delivered at different paces but the supported group will not start a foreign language until S2. Instead they will have extra Maths, English and other input in S1.

Pupils are able to move between bands as appropriate depending upon their progress. Changes are always carried out in full consultation with parents. 

The method used to deliver Gaelic at Hazlehead Academy has been arrived at following full consultation with parents. In S1 and S2 pupils will follow Gaelic in place of a modern foreign language and will have the option of picking this up at beginners level in S3.

Pupils also undertake a structured programme of Personal and Social Education led by the Principal Teachers of Guidance. To help with Course Choice, pupils and parents will be advised of the target grade which could be expected in each Standard Grade subject.

Years 3 and 4

In Third and Fourth Years most pupils will follow a combination of up to 8 Standard Grade /Higher Still courses. The courses are available to pupils of all abilities.

During Second Year pupils are given prognostications of expected Standard Grade and Higher Still results based on work in S1 and S2. Pupils and parents select a course for Years 3 and 4 which meets their needs. This selection is made after advice is given to pupils, both collectively and individually, and after parents have had the opportunity to attend a talk on the Choice of Course, consult with staff and get careers advice.

Within Standard Grade there are three different levels – Foundation, General and Credit. Awards are given on a single scale with grades from 1 (the top grade) to 7. Pupils who gain awards in the top grades (normally those who take Credit level) will be able to take Higher Grade in Fifth Year. Pupils who succeed at levels below Credit will generally be advised to follow courses at Intermediate 1 or 2 levels.

Courses from the ‘Higher Still’ range are also offered by departments where they are thought more appropriate. The levels of these can be compared with Standard Grade courses as follows:

A number of courses are compulsory to pupils in S3/4. Some are Standard Grade courses whilst others are core subjects and are not assessed.

Pupils must also select at least one Standard Grade course from the list of Scientific Subjects and one form the list of Social and Environmental Studies Subjects.

In their remaining 2 course pupils must also include courses based on Technological and on Creative and Aesthetic Activities.

Students and parents will be advised of target grades which students should expect to achieve in their fifth and sixth year courses, based on performance levels in Standard Grade examinations.

Years 5 and 6

A considerable percentage of pupils in Hazlehead Academy remain in school for the valuable experience of Fifth and Sixth Year courses.

It is the policy of the school to present all students in Fifth and Sixth Years for as many subjects in public examinations as they are capable of attempting with success. To ensure this, students can be entered for Scottish Qualifications Authority Examinations at Higher and Intermediate 2 in most subjects. Some subjects are additionally offered at Intermediate 1 and Advanced Higher levels. In addition we are a presenting  centre for London University GCE Advanced Level Music.

The gradual process associated with Choice of Course will begin in January with pupils being made aware of what is available to them at this stage and the specific opportunities created by the various types of courses on offer. Between January and March a Choice of Course should be made by students, related to their individual needs with respect to the career or further education they intend to pursue.

Students in Fifth Year will be required to have a full curriculum with 5 subjects and timetabled library study, while students in Sixth Year may consider a more flexible range of study and opt for 4 subjects. They will, in addition, be expected to donate some time to helping either in the Academy or the community.