At All Hallows, we believe education should be about far more than preparing pupils for tests or recalling facts. Years 7 and 8 is a pivotal time when pupils begin to stretch their independence, refine their thinking, and explore who they are becoming.

"What matters most is not just what our children know, but how they think, question, create and grow as individuals."  Dr Trevor Richards, Head, All Hallows School

Our refreshed curriculum is dynamic, inspiring, and rooted in the All Hallows Characteristics including curiosity, creativity, resilience, collaboration, and empathy. These values give shape to learning that develops character alongside measurable academic outcomes.

While we draw on the best elements of the National Curriculum and Common Entrance, our approach is no longer about simply imprinting knowledge, but on developing the skills to use that knowledge effectively.

Our core subjects are designed to be well-rounded and inclusive:

• English: Reading, writing, and comprehension remain central, now incorporating critical analysis of a wide range of global authors’ voices.
• Maths & Science: While traditional in content, these subjects also focus on investigative skills. We also celebrate STEM week, and showcase a yearly Science Fair. New modules include financial literacy.
• Humanities: Geography is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and topics evolve in line with current affairs to help pupils learn from the past.

Beyond the classroom, our pupils enjoy a plethora of opportunities:

• Art: Located in our dedicated Creative Centre, students explore a wide array of media from ceramics, pastels, sculpture, painting, and fine drawing, to develop their unique visual voice, all taught and supported by specialised teaching staff.
• Creative Design: Also part of the Creative Centre, a hands-on environment where innovation meets craftsmanship, encouraging pupils to solve real-world problems. Developing skills in traditional woodwork, technical drawing, 3D Printing, Sublimation Printing, Coding, Robotics and more.
• Performing Arts: Developing life skills like resilience and collaboration through dynamic, cross-curricular projects. Regular performance opportunities are available, both within class, and during the school's Yearly Springtime Production.
• Languages: Moving beyond rote learning to foster cultural awareness and a genuine curiosity for global communication.
• Computing: A digital learning pathway that teaches technology as a tool for the modern world. AI (Artificial Intelligence) and coding are both on the curriculum with technology use being encouraged throughout the school day.
• Physical & Outdoor Education: Includes swimming, Sport Science, and Team Sports to build leadership and collaboration skills in alternative environments.
• Forest School: Making use of the 9-Acre on-site Forest School. Pupils get stuck in with Bushcraft, Forest Management, Environment Conserveship, and fostering a love for the great outdoors!

We utilise a carefully blended programme of assessment for all pupils:

• iPQ (ISEB Project Qualification): Year 8 pupils complete a research project of their choice, building the independence and research skills valued by top senior schools.
• Pupil Passport: A digital portfolio (presented as a Google Site) where learners showcase their personal skills, achievements, and points of pride to prospective senior schools.
• Academic Rigour: On-going moderation against assessment papers ensures our students remain highly competitive.

As our Year 8s reach the summit of their All Hallows Learning Journey, the final three weeks of the academic year transform into an unforgettable celebration of everything they’ve achieved and more!

We’ve curated a bespoke programme of celebratory events, adventurous trips, and a final residential camp - all designed to champion their transition to Senior School.

By blending the cohort’s unique passions and friendships with essential life skills - like Financial Management and Real-World Problem Solving - we ensure they step into their next chapter with confidence.

It's engagement in learning at it's very best and, of course, a whole lot of fun all while building memories that will last a lifetime!

The step forward to senior school is an ever-present but personal journey for each individual. We work closely with families to guide children through their first experience of exams, helping them develop the skills to perform at their best under pressure.

We support each pupil individually through the necessary steps to securing their place at their chosen Senior School. This includes Entry Assessment, Common Entrance, and Scholarship Assessment, always taking into consideration each child's personal Education journey and working in alongside Parents and Pupils.

To find out more, head across to the After All Hallows website page.