Indirect Support:
Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Traditional
Queen Ethelburga's has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
International curriculum & programs at Queen Ethelburga's: Duke of Edinburgh's Award, British National Curriculum
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Lessons at QE employ a variety of different teaching styles and techniques, as our teachers recognise the varying needs and learning approaches of our students. With an emphasis on enjoyment, love of learning and an aspirational approach to gaining qualifications and skills, our teachers and students work in partnership to maximise success in the classroom. Close links between teaching staff and our Co-Curricular team allow students to develop their love of a subject by taking part in practical activities, residential trips and charitable endeavours, in order to understand the application of the skills they have learnt in real life.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Traditional Math
Queen Ethelburga's has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
Mathematics is a core subject from the age of 11. We follow a cyclical mathematical curriculum throughout, so previous years' learning is reviewed each year and then new content is taught. All four aspects of mathematics (number, shape and space, geometry and data handling) are taught each year. Examination questions can combine multiple aspects of the curriculum, and also require the use of logical thought and reasoning to answer questions requiring the use of inference, interpretation and evaluation. In the Sixth Form, AS and A Level Mathematics courses include the study of pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. Students can take A Levels in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics with multiple groups in both subjects. Lessons could contain teacher led activities (teaching new content), student led activities (group or paired work), book work (answering questions) or any combination of these.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
We use the textbooks that are aligned to the Examination Boards for mathematics and to ensure that all relevant material is covered.
Calculator policy:
All students are expected to bring a calculator to every maths lesson, as they are required in the majority of examinations.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Phonics-intensive
Queen Ethelburga's has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
Children are taught the initial phonic sounds rather than letter names, these are done in a specific order in relation to the frequency that they are used in building words. Children then learn to blend sounds together to read whole words.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Queen Ethelburga's says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Equal balance
Queen Ethelburga's has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
When teaching writing, the children learn all of their sounds including digraphs and trigraphs which they then use in the early stages of writing. Alongside this they have writing opportunities in all areas of provision within the Early Years Setting.
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Science
Science approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Equal Balance
Queen Ethelburga's has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
All students follow a core science curriculum throughout the school. From Grade 6 upwards they are taught biology, chemistry and physics as distinct lessons each week with a good balance between theoretical and practical work. At age 14, we offer GCSEs in the separate sciences as well a Trilogy Science option covering all three sciences and worth two GCSEs. Some students undertake a more vocational BTEC course which is more closely linked to science in the workplace and real world. In the Sixth Form, A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics are very popular options leading to many of our students going onto study Engineering or Medicine. We offer supercurricular medicine classes to help prepare students for future medical careers and give them an insight into ethical issues and practical science.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Traditional
Queen Ethelburga's has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
The English Literature programme is integrated with the Language programme. Whilst it is traditional to a large degree as we aim to give students the skills to decode and respond in an appropriate manner (both verbally and in writing), it is also used as a springboard for the exploration of wider issues – gender roles, colonialism, and so forth. Students are encouraged to develop resilience and independence in their study of texts, and are given opportunities to follow their own interests, to work collaboratively and to present ideas to their peers in an appropriate format that can be chosen by themselves. All students cover English Literature as part of the English curriculum throughout the school to the age of 16, with many taking Literature as a separate GCSE. In the Sixth Form, students can choose to take an A Level in English Literature or English Language.
Social Studies
Social Studies approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Core Knowledge
Queen Ethelburga's has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
We aim to provide our learners with an understanding of the world they live in, how it has been shaped and the important issues facing us as we look to the future. By involving students in current affairs, we promote the idea of questioning our past and reflecting our place in today's world. All students in Grades 5 to 7 have one lesson of History and Geography each weeks. In Grade 8 students are able to pick both history and/or geography as part of an extensive options programme where they are able to devote more time to these subjects and develop skills in preparation for further study at GCSE. Whilst inspiring students with a thorough academic study of the subjects, we encourage the students to broaden their understanding with field trips, including coastal erosion of the North Sea and the limestone cliffs of the Yorkshire Dales.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Equal Balance
Queen Ethelburga's has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
In geography, theme-based topics like earthquakes and volcanoes are mixed with real world location studies. In history, students study a range of time periods and important key events that still resonate in the modern world such as World War II and the Holocaust. Relevant skills of enquiry, interpretation and application are developed alongside content to prepare for external examinations. The humanities department seek to challenge students to achieve the highest levels of progress. Lessons are both interesting and dynamic. We aim to prepare our students for the full range of experience that the world has to offer. This includes not only the world of work, but cultural enrichment and an enhanced understanding of humanity.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Communicative
Queen Ethelburga's has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
Students in Grade 5 study French, German and Spanish on a carousel basis before picking one of these languages to specialise in from Grade 6. Highly competent linguists are able to take a second modern foreign language. Chinese is also available for study as either a first language or an introductory course. As students advance they gain a full understanding of the grammar and linguistic structures needed to succeed in the languages they have chosen. We aim to raise students’ awareness of other cultures and the world beyond their experience by showing students how small the world has become, and how more than one language can better equip them within it. The Modern Foreign Languages department is equipped with a dedicated language lab where students can access authentic materials and practise their listening techniques. A high proportion of our teachers are native speakers of the language they teach.
Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Equal Balance
Queen Ethelburga's has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Queen Ethelburga's says:
Creative Arts Department is compulsory for all students to the age of 14 and thereafter is offered at GCSE, BTEC and A Level. It is a mix of both receptive and creative learning. We develop creative thinkers with the ability to express themselves through visual, spoken, musical, creative language, and question the world around them. Our aim is that all students grow in a range of artistic skills, in areas as diverse as music and music technology, performance, acting, dance, stage management, art and design, photography, fashion, 3D design and digital design. We aim for students to become assured communicators with the ability and confidence in presenting their ideas. Opportunities are supported by our committed and nurturing staff, many of whom are also practicing professionals and our excellent facilities – including our 250-seat professional theatre, the music performance and practice rooms, art studios, digital photography suite, darkroom and workshops.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Medium integration
Queen Ethelburga's has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
All students to age 14 have compulsory lessons in Computing and Computer science. They also have lessons in Design Technology. From the age of 14, these subjects are optional with GCSEs, A Levels and BTEC qualifications all available. Within computing, the curriculum covers hardware, software, algorithms and programming. It also looks at issues of cyber security and data privacy. Students will learn how to program in different languages and to use this in robotics and web design. Beyond the specific computing courses, all students are asked to bring their own devices to school to use throughout academic lessons. Students' digital literacy is built up in the use of word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software, as well as using the internet safely and productively to assist with learning. Where possible, technology is used to enhance learning in the classroom with the use of Smartboards and other tools.
Program covers:
Subject offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Queen Ethelburga's says:
All of Queen Ethelburga’s students follow a sports programme with the values of fair play, honesty and determination at its heart. Health and fitness is a vital part of school life for QE students with many continuing with sport and exercise, either recreationally or as a route of study. The facilities on campus are outstanding, with the recent development of our dedicated Sports Village, to which all students have additional access outside of formal school hours. Staff cater for all abilities and encourage each student to enjoy all the fantastic opportunities on offer during their time at QE.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Queen Ethelburga's: - curriculum
Queen Ethelburga's has a - curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About - curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Queen Ethelburga's has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Queen Ethelburga's says:
Relationship and sex education is an integral part of the Personal Development curriculum. It is taught with due regard to moral considerations, family life (in its widest definition) and with respect to a diversity of cultures, sexual identity, and orientation. The education provided is age appropriate, inclusive, and respectful of background and belief. The important values are love, respect, and care for each other. Effective sex and relationship education does not encourage early sexual experimentation. It should teach young people to understand human sexuality and to respect themselves and others. It enables young people to mature, to build up their confidence and self-esteem and understand the reasons for delaying sexual activity. Furthermore, it dovetails with other pastoral, behaviour, safeguarding policies, placing the welfare of the child at the centre of the education received.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Academic
Queen Ethelburga's has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
We promote the concept of 'Magic Moments', which are short bursts of planned activities that enable the practitioners to concentrate on key aspects of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum and to work on individual children's next steps. We also provide excellent opportunities for children to develop above and beyond the standard curriculum with opportunities to begin learning a modern foreign language, to undertake expert music teaching and to access our superb sporting facilities for regular swimming, dance and multi-skills sessions. All our extra learning opportunities are carried out by specialist qualified professionals.
Language
Learn about Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Queen Ethelburga's offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Standard-enriched
Queen Ethelburga's has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their curriculum pace:
Students choose from over 100 Enrichment Activities from the following categories : Community, Creativity, Culture, Health & Exercise and Leadership. We work with students to make sure that the activities enable them to make the most of the opportunities and develop their knowledge, skills and experience beyond the classroom.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Queen Ethelburga's: Rigorous
Queen Ethelburga's has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their academic culture:
Academic standards at Queen Ethelburga’s are exceptionally high and lead to outstanding results. Our flexible curriculum, innovative and dynamic teaching, excellent facilities and professional staff ensure all students have the maximum chance of success in their studies. However, we believe that our approach nurtures something just as important; the personal and social skills that our students will benefit from for the rest of their lives.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their developmental priorities:
Alongside academic success, we aim to provide a holistic education which supports students to develop their knowledge, skills and experience beyond the classroom. Lessons at QE employ a variety of different teaching styles and techniques, as our teachers recognise the varying needs and learning approaches of our students. With an emphasis on enjoyment, love of learning and an aspirational approach to gaining qualifications and skills, our teachers and students work in partnership to maximise success in the classroom.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Queen Ethelburga's students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
| NS | PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Ethelburga's | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins |
| Site Average | 0 mins | 2 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 35 mins | 41 mins | 53 mins | 58 mins | 73 mins | 85 mins | 101 mins | 109 mins |
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 2 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 2 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate offers 16 competitive sports and 16 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Archery
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Fencing
- Field Hockey
- Gymnastics
- Martial Arts
- Rugby
- Running
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate offers 22 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Foreign Language Club
Habitat for Humanity
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Science Club
Yoga
Animation
Art Club
Astronomy Club
Audiovisual Club
Band
Chess Club
Choir
Community Service
Computer Club
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
What Queen Ethelburga's says about their extracurricular activities:
- Performance Sport Programme in athletics, basketball, netball, soccer, field hockey, rugby, cricket and swimming. Students receive specialist high-level coaching to enable them to pursue their chosen sport and represent that sport at county level or above. Each students' programme follows a unique scheme of work including the latest tactical, technical, physical and mental training. They have sessions in strength and conditioning, performance analysis & nutrition as well as opportunities to coach younger groups. They are designed with individual talent development as the key component and present opportunities for students to develop their skills through to UK and international competition.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate
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