At Queen Elizabeth School, our curriculum allows students to receive a broad and balanced education.
It’s overarching purpose is to be challenging and accessible to every student, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they require in their future learning and employment. It is sequenced in a manner that enables students to flourish both academically and in character development.
The aims of the curriculum are:
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To educate the students for life through the offer of a broad and balanced approach to learning, where relevance, challenge, progression, continuity and support are key elements of all the activities undertaken.
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To provide an appropriate range of opportunities and experiences to inspire students to succeed in the next stage in their education, training or employment.
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To enable high standards of academic achievement where outcomes empower students to progress onto further study and / or employment.
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To provide a suitable and effective learning environment for those students requiring special provision, including those with statements of special need, and for those students who have English as an additional language.
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To contribute effectively to students’ intellectual, physical and personal attainment and development.
Students are offered a wide range of choices which enables them to study a personalised learning pathway from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4. They are supported in this process through careers guidance, curriculum information events and one-to-one meetings. Students spend three years in Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) and two years in Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11).
CurricuLum Maps
Use the links below to see what your child will be studying in each term.
Autumn Term 2025
Spring Term 2026
Summer Term 2026
Our Curriculum subjects:
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Art
Art
Through the study of Art, Craft and Design, our aim is to offer all students the freedom of creative expression, within a thought-provoking, safe environment. Through innovative schemes of learning, we want students to feel empowered to record their personal thoughts, ideas and experiences through the exploration and mastery of media and materials. We encourage students to try new things, manage risk, and to handle failure. Our mission is to work collaboratively with students to support their creative aspirations, giving them the tools and techniques to effectively explore and understand today’s ever changing visual world. By offering inspiration from a wide range of contemporary and historical work, we aim to develop critical audiences who can respond creatively to social issues and abstract concepts, from a broad cultural perspective. We want students to express their opinions confidently, using a rich visual language and to gain the confidence to excel in the creative industries.
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Business Studies
Business Studies
The world of business encompasses every aspect of our lives, whether we are employees, business owners, or customers. We interact with businesses daily, often without realizing it, logging into social media accounts, buying a loaf of bread, or paying for bus fare. Business Studies encourages creativity, logic, and reflection, striving to bring out the entrepreneur in each student and helping them understand their potential impact in the ever-changing, dynamic world of business. Our goal is to instill the belief that while successful businesses are profit-driven, the best organizations adhere to high moral and ethical standards. To achieve this, we provide students with the space to research businesses, ask questions, and critique business models that have failed, encouraging them to propose workable solutions for greater success. In Business Studies, students will quickly acquire the skills needed to thrive in our technology-driven, fast-paced, and enterprising world
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Catering & Hospitality,
Catering & Hospitality
Students will learn the skills of bringing together a wide range of curriculums and applying them to real world scenarios. Students learn how products and systems are designed and manufactured, how to be inventive and make creative use of a variety of resources including traditional and digital technologies, so as to improve the world around them. We provide opportunities, that allow students to develop a knowledge of a range of skills in Hospitality and catering. Students grow in confidence through dedicated teaching environments, manufacturing equipment and specialist teaching. In their chosen option subject, the curriculum allows for deeper study of the world they live in, practice and explore key skills, with potential career opportunities and build on the skills developed at KS3 the confidence to taking risks, become resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens.
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Child Development and Care (Early Years)
Child Development and Care (Early Years)
Most people agree that children are the future of our world. Therefore, understanding their development and welfare is crucial. In this course, students will have the opportunity to explore both theoretical and practical aspects of child development and welfare. At its core, child development is about how humans grow during their most formative years and how the choices made by the adults in their lives can give them the best possible start. This course will allow students to immerse themselves in this vital field, gaining insights that are essential for the future of our society. Additionally, it will open doors to various sectors connected to this important area of study, providing a strong foundation for future careers and personal growth.
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Computer Science
Computer Science
In an increasingly digital world, understanding how technology works is no longer optional—it is essential. Our KS3 QES course in Key Stage 3 Computer Science offers students the chance to explore how computers and digital systems shape the way we live, work, and interact.Grounded in the national curriculum, students will develop computational thinking skills, learning how to solve problems, design systems, and understand the principles of information and computation Thinking. Through both theory and hands-on practice, they will gain insights into algorithms, programming, hardware, networks, and the ethical use of technology.More than just using technology, this course empowers students to create it. They will learn to write and debug code, analyse data, and evaluate digital tools. These skills not only support success in Computer Science but also enhance logical thinking and creativity across subjects.Ultimately, this course lays a strong foundation for students to thrive in a digital future—whether as informed users, future innovators, or leaders in the technology-driven world. -
Construction
Construction
Students will learn the skills of bringing together a wide range of curriculums and applying them to real world scenarios. Students learn how products and systems are designed and manufactured, how to be inventive and make creative use of a variety of resources including traditional and digital technologies, so as to improve the world around them. Students grow in confidence through dedicated teaching environments, manufacturing equipment and specialist teaching. In their chosen option subject, the curriculum allows for deeper study of the world they live in, practice and explore key skills, with potential career opportunities and build on the skills developed at KS3 the confidence to taking risks, become resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens.
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Dance
Dance
Every student, no matter what their current level of ability, should have the opportunity to develop their creative and physical skills through Dance. We want all students to benefit from the many transferable skills that will pave the way in a successful future for themselves, regardless if they want a career as a performer/ choreographer or not. We want dance to develop their self-confidence, presence, artistic appreciation, cultural understanding, social skills, teamwork, communication and self-awareness, thinking out of the box, innovation, self-discipline, and hardworking ethics. We want students to improve their artistic qualities through the use of movement to express and communicate ideas and concepts through performance, choreography and appreciation.
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Design and Technology
Design and Technology
Students will learn the skills of bringing together a wide range of curriculums and applying them to real world scenarios. Students learn how products and systems are designed and manufactured, how to be inventive and make creative use of a variety of resources including traditional and digital technologies, so as to improve the world around them. We provide opportunities, that allow students to develop a knowledge of a range of skills in various technology subjects, Product design, Textiles, Food/nutrition, Graphics, Hospitality and Catering, and Constructing the Built Environment. Students grow in confidence through dedicated teaching environments, manufacturing equipment and specialist teaching. In their chosen option subject, the curriculum allows for deeper study of the world they live in, practice and explore key skills, with potential career opportunities and with the skills developed at KS3 the confidence to taking risks, become resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens.
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Drama
Drama
Drama empowers students to have a voice in society and a way to express who they are. Drama evokes thought, compassion and an awareness of how humans shape the world. We are fascinated by stories. Stories have shaped history. Stories have been passed down through generations first as rituals, then as performances and finally written down in the stories we read and now watch on our screens. Drama fosters fearlessness, giving students the ability to present work and ideas in situations that are potentially challenging. Drama students are ambitious, integral, kind and determined, understanding that communication, teamwork and compromise allows students to develop curiosity in the world around them, putting themselves into the spotlight instead of the shadows, whether that is as a performer, designer, director, producer or writer. Drama prepares students to navigate within the community, preparing them for future successes, giving them the tools of self confidence, self awareness, critical thinking, problem solving, time management and conflict resolution.
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English
English
English is a subject which honours our past, present, and future; it is a subject which places the self and our understanding of our place within the world at its centre. In English, we offer students the opportunity - through literature - to reflect on their place in the world and the world they want to create in the future. We endeavour to offer students these opportunities by exposing them to a variety of perspectives and moral questions which they will ask themselves as they move into adulthood; students explore these worlds so that they can question their own in a perceptive and critical way.
Our mission is to provide students with the freedom and ability to probe their personal sphere by critiquing imagined and historical worlds - we want to build students who are curious about what happens to them and around them and why their world is built in this way.
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Geography
Geography
Geography inspires curiosity and fascination about the world and its people. Geography is more than just understanding places, it's about understanding our global connections and the incredible creatures inside of it. Without studying geography, we would not have the navigation systems we know today, know the processes which change the natural world or develop the connections with the nations around the world.
Geography allows us to study our past through how significant natural disasters and events have changed landscapes around the world, illuminates the present by investigating current world issues such as migration and water scarcity and helps prepare our students for future challenges by problem solving and promoting solutions to world issues like climate change to create sustainable future environments. Through exploring a variety of geographical concepts our students are equipped to become the future decision makers of our world.
Therefore, our mission at QES for geography is to help our students in becoming global citizens and develop their acceptance of cultures within our interconnected world. -
Health & Social Care
Health & Social Care
Health and Social Care is a vocational subject dedicated to fostering respectful discussions on sensitive topics, empowering students to become positive role models within their communities and beyond. This subject enhances students' understanding of individuality and the importance of mutual care and support throughout our lives.
Our mission is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to better understand each other, promote healthy lifestyles, and support one another. We aim to explore the essential services within our community, highlighting the various opportunities available for making a meaningful impact in the field of Health and Social Care. -
History
History
History is our opportunity to provide students with a modern, rich and diverse study of the past events of Britain and the wider history of the world. It enables us to fully comprehend the world we live in, from the creation of modern Britain to its place in the world today. This means giving students the tools to assess the magnificent and complex history of our British Isles, as well as the world around it. It is through our studies that we develop the students' understandings of what core British values represent and why they are important. To understand the importance of democratic governments, the systems that govern them, and the role they play. History provides the knowledge and tools to learn and progress from the past. Our aim is to give students an opportunity to understand that history is living and represents the past, present and the future all over the world. To show that Britain is just one piece of a world always continuing to write its history day after day. We aim to ignite a passion for the subject that brings history to life.
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Mathematics
Mathematics
Mathematics is the science and study of number, structure, space, change and statistics. Its significance extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. You will see maths in every aspect of your daily life, with it influencing various fields including science, technology, engineering, economics and even art. Maths also plays an important role in everyday tasks such as cooking, shopping and budgeting. The vision for maths at Queen Elizabeth School is to develop students' mental discipline and encourage logical reasoning, allowing students to become resilient learners who can become analytical thinkers and problem solvers. We believe students deserve an experience of maths which is embedded with skill and opportunity, that will not only challenge and develop understanding, but nurture a love for the subject. We will expose students to the importance of mathematics, with our teachers passing on their knowledge and passion, to inspire students to take the mathematics mantle and pass it through their generation.
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Modern Foreign Languages (French & Spanish)
Modern Foreign Languages (French & Spanish)
The Modern Foreign Languages curriculum is designed to provide a range of balanced topics for all pupils in all year groups, and it reflects the ethnically, culturally and socially diverse nature of our community.
We are ambitious for all young people, whatever their abilities, disabilities and starting points in Languages from KS2. We strive to inspire, motivate and enthuse them. Our curriculum ensures that students develop the language skills, knowledge and understanding that will prepare them for further learning and employment, and to become successful citizens of the 21st century.
Our curriculum in each Key Stage aims to enable students to becoming confident Communicators, who are aware of the Career Opportunities that studying a foreign Language can provide, and who are also Culturally aware of what happens in many of the countries where French and Spanish are spoken. -
Music
Music
Music empowers, music heals, music inspires and music transforms. Music is the universal language of mankind, it is more than just a subject, it is a medium to connect at a deeper level. We aim to provide a space for students to experience the joys of music, connect with others and express themselves.
Students who involve themselves in music at a higher level are statistically more likely to achieve higher grades across other subjects. Music is the door for students to experiment and explore themselves.
At QES we give our students the space and opportunity to explore different musical styles, genres, instruments and vocal opportunities. We work in close partnership with Luton Music Service to empower students to be creative and proficient musicians.
"Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.” — Victor Hugo -
Physical Education (incl Sport Studies KS4)
Physical Education (incl Sport Studies KS4)
Students love Physical Education because it offers an active and fun learning environment, where students can experience skill development, stress relief, teamwork and social interaction whilst providing a refreshing break from the classroom. Physical Education plays a pivotal role in the development of children's physical, emotional, and social skills, and is essential in inspiring the next generation to lead physically active, healthy lifestyles. Our curriculum is designed to provide students with a wide variety of learning experiences that supports the development of techniques into well-defined skills, transforms knowledge into practical application, and encourages their ability to analyse their performance. At the heart of Physical Education lies the profound goal of developing students as individuals, nurturing their character, steering behaviour, and developing resilience through a variety of physical activities and sports.
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Religious Studies (incl Philosophy, Religion & Ethics KS4)
Religious Studies (incl Philosophy, Religion & Ethics KS4)
Since the dawn of humanity, we as a human race have pondered the nature of existence, questioning why we are here and how we came to be. These inquiries mark the genesis of faith and religious traditions. Regardless of whether one holds a particular faith or none at all, these existential questions often profoundly influence our lives, shaping our milestones and guiding our journeys.
Religious Studies delves into the beliefs, practices, and thoughts of various world faiths while also tackling some of humanity's most profound philosophical and ethical questions, such as “How did the world begin?” and “How should we punish those who break the law?” By embracing interdisciplinary approaches and fostering critical thinking, our RS department seeks to illuminate the intricate ways in which religion shapes and is shaped by cultural, social, and historical contexts. We aim to promote interfaith dialogue, respect for all belief systems, and a deeper appreciation for the spiritual dimensions of life.
Our RS and PRE curriculums are designed to equip students with essential skills that will benefit them both in and out of school, particularly in the multicultural and diverse society of Luton. -
Science,
Science
Science lies at the heart of human progress, unlocking the mysteries of the universe and empowering us to address the challenges of our time. It is through science that we gain insight into the natural world we live in, understand the complexities of life, from the size of an atom to our ever expanding universe, and develop solutions to global issues, from climate change to disease eradication. Through the exploration of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, we inspire students to pursue ambitious goals with unwavering determination. Fostering collaboration, kindness and intrigue throughout all lessons, we uphold the highest standards of academic integrity, shaping future leaders in science.
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PSHE
PSHE
Nurturing students is at the heart of our vision. We believe in equipping every student with the skills and resilience needed to navigate life's challenges. We are committed to fostering an environment where ambition is celebrated, integrity is upheld, determination is nurtured, and kindness is the cornerstone of all interactions. Our aim is to inspire every child to dream big, act with honesty, work hard, and show compassion, ensuring they grow into responsible and capable individuals ready to face the world with confidence.
Our educational approach highlights the importance of Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education, which we consider vital in preparing our students for a fulfilling and responsible life in a diverse and ever-evolving society. We ask: "What would a world be without PSHE?" Our answer is clear - it would lack empathy, well-rounded individuals we are proud to nurture.
Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to create a learning environment where every student feels valued, supported, and motivated to reach their highest potential, contributing positively to the world around them.
Through our engaging and supportive PSHE curriculum, we aim to:
- Foster empathy and kindness, ensuring a respectful and caring community.
- Encourage ambition by helping students set and achieve personal and academic goals.
- Promote integrity by cultivating honesty, responsibility, and ethical behaviour.
- Instill determination, empowering students to face challenges with resilience and perseverance.By embedding these values into our daily practices, we prepare our students not only for academic success but also for a fulfilling and responsible life beyond the school gates into the wider community.
Key Stage 3:
Students study a broad range of subjects incorporating the core (Maths, English and Science) and foundation subjects. It is also designed to be flexible to allow support for those students who have English as an Additional Language.
Staff use a range of data including CATs verbal and non-verbal reasoning scores to plan and deliver lessons to support every student within the classes. The Key Stage 3 curriculum provides students with the skills and knowledge across the whole curriculum to be able to achieve as they move forward in their education.
Each lesson is 50 minutes long, with the number of lessons per week below.
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Year 7 |
Year 8 |
Year 9 |
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English |
5 |
4 |
4 |
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Maths |
4 |
4 |
4 |
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Science |
5 |
5 |
4 |
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History |
2 |
2 |
3 |
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Geography |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
MFL |
3 |
3 |
2 |
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DT |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
Art |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
IT |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Religious Studies |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Performing Arts |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
PE |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
PSHE |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Total |
30 |
30 |
30 |
Key Stage 4 2024/25
Students starting Key Stage 4 in the academic year 2024/25 will study a core curriculum of:
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English Language
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English Literature
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Mathematics
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Science (Combined or Triple)
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Religious Studies
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Physical Education
The options process then allows students to choose subjects based on their own personal progress. Please see below for more details on the options process:
The range of subjects offered at Key Stage 4 includes:
- Art
- Business Studies
- Catering & Hospitality
- Childcare
- Computer Science
- Construction
- Dance
- Design Technology
- Drama
- French**
- Geography
- Health & Fitness
- Health & Social Care
- History
- Music
- Spanish**
**Students must have studied this subject at KS3 to select as an option.
Where possible, we also support students in completing GCSE in a range of additional languages that they may already be fluent in.
The options process is supported further by a Careers Education Information and Guidance (CEIAG) system across the school. This includes students having careers interviews during KS3/KS4, work experience opportunities, guest speakers from local further education providers and careers fairs. The school has been awarded the national Quality in Careers Standard Award. Further information on the school's Careers Programme can be found here.
Each lesson is 50 minutes long, with the number of lessons per week below:
|
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Year 10 |
Year 11 |
|
English |
5 |
6 |
|
Maths |
5 |
5 |
|
Science |
5 |
7 |
|
RS |
1 |
2 |
|
PE |
1 |
1 |
|
PSHE |
1 |
1* |
|
Option A |
3 |
3 |
|
Option B |
3 |
3 |
|
Option C |
3 |
3 |
|
Option D |
3 |
0 |
|
Total |
30 |
31 |
*Blended via drop down days
The wider curriculum:
Alongside the above, each student is given access to a wide range of opportunities, experiences and takes on responsibilities to prepare them for later life. These include:
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Trips domestically: theatre, educational trips to the coast, historical sites, Cadbury’s World Business
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International trips: French markets, ski trips, Germany – Holocaust and historical sites
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UK Maths Challenges, Duke of Edinburgh Awards
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Links to Music School, Shakespeare Schools Festival, The Feast,
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Sporting opportunities: Fixtures and clubs, Luton Caribbean Cricket Club, County and Town Sports
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Guest Speakers: BBC100, Flavasume Trust, Mike Haines, Walk to Freedom.