Senior School
Upper School
The Upper School is located within the main mansion house and benefits from specialist classrooms, most of which are equipped with interactive whiteboards to support a wide range of learning styles.
Classes remain small, allowing our subject‑specialist staff to use a variety of evidence‑based strategies to ensure effective learning for every pupil.
Key Stage 3
Pupils in Key Stage 3 follow a traditional curriculum based on National Curriculum requirements. They are taught by subject specialists who have additional training in neurodiversity, ensuring a thorough understanding of learners’ needs and the strategies required to support them effectively.
In addition to the subjects taught in Key Stage 2, Home Cooking is introduced for all pupils in Year 7.
In Year 8, pupils begin working towards Functional Skills qualifications in English, Maths and ICT. Towards the end of Year 8, those who are ready may sit Entry Level exams, progressing at a pace appropriate to their individual development.
Key Stage 4
Key Stage 4 provision is available for pupils who require continued specialist support. The curriculum is intentionally reduced to meet pupils’ needs and to reflect the resources available within the school.
At this stage, pupils study English, Maths, Combined Science, RE, Photography and Art at GCSE level. Depending on their individual profile, pupils may take Functional Skills qualifications alongside or instead of GCSEs. Home Cooking continues as part of the Life Skills curriculum, with pupils entered for BTEC Level 2 (GCSE 9–4 equivalent) or BTEC Level 1 (GCSE 1–3 equivalent) where appropriate.
All pupils also follow a programme of PSHE, PE, Careers, Outdoor Learning and Social Skills, none of which involve formal examinations.
We recognise that many Holme Court pupils join us significantly behind their peers in English and Maths due to dyslexia and/or dyscalculia. While many will take GCSE English and Maths in Year 11, our pathways allow pupils to work through alternative qualifications as stepping stones towards GCSE.
ICT and Wider Opportunities
ICT is an area in which many of our pupils excel, and it is embedded across the curriculum to enhance learning and build confidence.
Careers Guidance and Work Experience form an important part of Year 10, while Year 11 focuses on mock examinations and preparation for external assessments.