Specialisms

Huish Episcopi School has three specialisms, Science, Modern Languages and Applied Learning. The aims of the specialist programme are to raise achievement for all, develop the quality of teaching and learning, extend opportunities for enrichment activities, to work collaboratively with partner schools and develop links with the community.

We gained the Science specialism in 2003 and this was followed by Modern Foreign Languages in 2005 and Applied Learning later in 2006.

The Science specialism has enabled the school to work alongside primary schools and to support the teaching of Science and Mathematics across the Key stages. Students follow a very practical Science course in Key Stage 3 and can follow either Triple Science (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) or 21st Century Science at Key Stage 4. In Mathematics they have the opportunity to take their GCSE early and begin A level study in year 11.There is a diverse range of enrichment activities and practical opportunities in both Science and Mathematics that are supported by the Science specialism, including Astronomy.

In Modern Foreign Languages, all our feeder primary schools have been supported by the outreach teacher in French and students can participate in a French Exchange in Years 8 and join trips to Venice, France and Vienna. Students also take an introductory course in Mandarin Chinese and may choose to pursue this outside lessons in they wish. The Modern Foreign Languages specialism promotes the International Dimension and seeks to promote understanding of the wider global community as well as promote languages.

The Applied Learning specialism has brought us the right to open a Sixth Form.  Applied Learning is about developing the curriculum to ensure all students can succeed, but also about making learning real and relevant.  It is about learning to be effective learners, reflective and creative thinkers who can solve problems. This permeates our teaching. We have also extended our vocational offer to students in Key Stage 4 as a result of the Applied Learning and students can also take part in after school clubs such as the Glider Club, Robotics, and Arts Mentor Award.