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A Catholic independent school for girls & boys 3-18 years welcoming All Faiths. We are a highly successful and ambitious school, however, above all else Bishop Challoner is a warm and welcoming community where each member is embraced and encouraged to flourish and achieve.
We are immensely proud of Bishop Challoner and what we represent and stand for. We are committed to providing an environment in which all students are challenged to be the best they can be, and one in which pastoral care and wellbeing underpin academic and co-curricular excellence. This rings true in the school’s motto - ‘Dare to do your best’.
The art department aims to develop the technical, creative and imaginative talents of each student so that they experience a sense of wonder about art's processes, a knowledge of the art world and pride in what they create. Students are encouraged to take artistic risks, be self-motivated, work collaboratively and make individual aesthetic decisions.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
We love images; studying them and making them. The art department delivers a Key Stage 3 curriculum tailored to the needs of the students and designed to ensure that everyone makes good progress, regardless of their starting level. Our Fine Art activities include painting, drawing, photography, printing, sculpture, collage and digital imagery, and we also include elements of graphic design and fashion. Everyone is guided through carefully developed projects that range from Japanese art to junk sculpture, from portraits to fabric design, from fashion to poster design using a system called RED-P that develops the ability of students to be increasingly self-motivated.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Art is a popular subject at GCSE. It is ideal for any student who enjoys art and is good at it. Our love of studying and making images guarantees a creative environment in the art studio. We study the OCR Art and Design, Fine Art specification. This allows students to further develop creative skills as they assume greater responsibility for the development of projects. In Year 10, we focus on the mastery of drawing and painting skills as we embark on one coursework project. In Year 11 we complete two further large-scale projects and undertake the externally set task assignment.
Biology is the most powerful technology ever created. DNA is software, proteins are hardware and the cells are factories. Genetic analysis is showing that life is much more complex, which means the future of biology is much more interesting than anyone had dared to hope.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 & 8)
We aim to promote an interest in life sciences, using up-to-date teaching strategies and the best possible facilities. Each year at Key Stage 3, a term is devoted to studying biology, expanding notions of science learnt at Key Stage 2 as well as introducing new knowledge. In Year 7, students learn about cells, their reproduction, adaptation and variation, inheritance and selection. In Year 8, students discover microbes and diseases, plants and photosynthesis, ecological relationships, digestion, respiration and keeping fit. The aim is also for students to acquire key practical skills and terminology that is then developed further at Key Stage 4.
GCSE (Years 9, 10 & 11)
In Year 9, every pupil studies biology in preparation for his or her GCSEs. In Years 10 and 11, students are placed in two sets. One group will prepare for the biology GCSE whilst the second group will work towards the combined science double GCSE.
The range of topics is varied, increasing knowledge and passion for biology. It includes keeping healthy, nerves and hormones, interdependence and adaptation, energy and biomass, genetic variation, evolution, cells and simple cell transport and cell division. During the course, Key Stage 4 students further develop their investigative and analytical skills, trying to expand models that explain processes around us.
Chemistry is what makes the world work. From the materials that make up the electronic components, battery and touch screen in your phone, to the development of new drugs to help in the fight against cancer. Without the study of the matter that makes up the world around us, many of the developments that we have made in society would not have been possible. The study of chemistry is therefore key in developing a new generation of scientists who are ready to tackle the problems that our society may face, such as the growing threat of antibiotic resistant bacteria or the development of cleaner energy resources to help reduce global warming.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 & 8)
At Key Stage 3, students follow the Activate scheme of work. This scheme is designed to inspire our budding scientists, whilst challenging and supporting them along the way. In Year 7, students learn about the fundamentals of chemistry whilst experimenting with acids and alkalis. In Year 8, students are then introduced to the periodic table before exploring the world of metals and other materials, among other topics. Students will also acquire key practical skills and an extensive specialist vocabulary that is then developed further at Key Stage 4. This is a rigorous scheme of work that prepares students well for their GCSE course in Year 9.
GCSE (Years 9, 10 & 11)
In Year 9, students study the chemistry content of the AQA science GCSEs. In years 10 and 11, students are placed in two sets. One group prepares for the Chemistry GCSE whist the second group works towards the Combined Science: Trilogy GCSE.
Throughout Key Stage 4, students also design investigations, make measurements, present data, draw conclusion and evaluate limitations attached to scientific evidences. More information on the science GCSEs can be found on the AQA website.
For Year 11, revision sessions are held in the Easter holidays to ensure continued access to help and support during this important period of their education.
Computer Science is the study of computer systems, a subject at the forefront of technology. Pupils learn software and software systems that includes their theory, design, development and application.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Pupils start Year 7 with an E-Safety project, which includes health & safety issues with computers. Pupils then learn to write algorithms and create flowcharts using Flowol. Programming concepts are introduced and skills are developed using Scratch & Python. Game development using programs such as Fusion is popular among Key Stage 3 students. Data structures, data representation and study of types of computer systems form an integral part of the subject. Programming club run by Digital Leaders highlights their strengths of programming at higher levels.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Paper 1: Computer Systems. This unit covers system architecture, memory, storage, networking, system security and system software, as well as ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns.
Paper 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming. 40% GCSE. This unit covers algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic, translators and facilities of languages and data representation.
Programming Project: Non-Exam Controlled Assessment (NEA). 20% GCSE. Pupils build code solutions for a task set by OCR. Pupils apply their prior knowledge of one or more suitable programming languages.
A love of literature underpins everything we do in the English department. It is this enthusiasm we aim to pass on to students, lifting literature off the page in activities that are creative and relevant. We encourage personal reading to prepare students for the outside world, equipping them with academic excellence and transferable skills.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Learning is dynamic and vibrant with an emphasis on fostering an enjoyment of books and language, whilst developing technical accuracy and flair in writing. Pupils study a range of texts, including novels, poems and non-fiction. We encourage children to become self-motivated and often one half term's homework will be devoted to an individual project. These currently include producing a Shakespeare project and a Vampire Hunter's Guidebook. Pupils engage with language both on the page and through oral work, such as dramatic role-play, speeches, monologues and debate.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Pupils are set by ability for GCSE and study both English Language and English Literature. These are taught side-by-side, enabling students to see how the skills they learn are relevant to both disciplines. Currently, students read Macbeth, An Inspector Calls and The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle, as well as studying an anthology of poetry which spans a range of literary periods up to the present day.
We use French all the time. How often have you had a sense of déjà vu? Or eaten a pain au chocolat? Do you say 'bon voyage' when people go away on a trip? Have you eaten in Café Rouge or Prêt à Manger?
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
We want our learners to be confident at communicating in French. The skills taught during Key Stage 3 include vocabulary learning, speaking practice, listening and reading skills, dictionary skills, writing practice as well as the study of grammar to hold it all together. We make swift progress, which we track every half term through assessments. Pupils are encouraged to communicate in French and consolidate topics through homework and class work tasks. We use the Allez 1 and 2 coursebooks.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
French is an optional subject of study at Key Stage 4. The GCSE course consists of three themes: Identity and Culture; Local, National, International and Global areas of interest; Current and future study and employment. During the course, students further develop the skills already harnessed during Key Stage 3. French is both an academic and a practical subject. In essence, we aim for our learners to gain lifelong skills that equip them for the future.
Geography is concerned with the study of places, the human and physical processes which shape them and the people who live in them. It is about ‘empowering tomorrow's adults to develop real global understanding and global citizenship so they have the intellectual understanding to participate individually and collectively in shaping the world around them.'
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
The programme of study in each year at Key Stage 3 incorporates a variety of places, scales and issues and is planned for progression of skills, knowledge and understanding. Units in Year 7 develop knowledge of the local area and encourage students to begin making links with other places. This gradually increases in scale to facts about the UK, then Europe and the World. Units in Year 8 and 9 explore the concepts of environmental change, sustainable development and global citizenship.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
The new AQA GCSE specification allows students to travel the world from their classroom, exploring case studies in the United Kingdom, higher income countries, newly emerging economies and lower income countries. Topics of study include climate change, poverty, deprivation, global shifts in economic power and the challenge of sustainable resource use. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes. This exciting and relevant course studies geography in a balanced framework of physical and human themes and investigates the link between them.
The study of history must be justified to students as relevant, important and essential; and that by being encouraged to develop intellectual autonomy, they are prepared to participate as confident citizens within a modern information society. The History Department focuses on translating knowledge into something accessible to all, finding the hook that opens a subject up and makes it compelling to a wider audience.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
The Key Stage 3 Curriculum is organised chronologically, constructed around enquiry questions with a focus on Empire as a key theme running throughout. The focus in Year 7 is focused on the Roman Empire and life in Medieval England. In Year 8 pupils study the Tudors, the Stuarts and an extensive unit titled 'From Slavery to Civil Rights'. Year 9 is focussed around the World Wars with the year concluding with a detailed study of the Holocaust. Assessment methods vary throughout the key stages but there is a solid focus on essay writing skills.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
History GCSE focuses on the concept of modern world history. The 'Migrants to Britain c1250' to present day encapsulates the extensive new research that has taken place on the diverse heritage of migration to Britain, while the Elizabethan unit explores the political complexities of female rule with a focus on the beginnings of global enterprise. The 'Making of America' explores the rich cultural development of a country that was built on the consequences of civil war, industrialisation and the fight for civil rights, while 'Living under Nazi Rule' focuses on life during occupation in East and West Europe with a focus on the Holocaust. The GCSE is examination-based but pupils are also encouraged to debate, think independently and to draw connections to current day issues.
Western culture's foundation can be found in the ideas of the Greeks and Romans. Questions that they asked about life and how to live it are questions we still ask today. Classics is about life: art, language, politics, myth, drama, architecture, law, science, religion, archaeology, philosophy and history.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
We cover a range of discussion areas including politics, war and ethics. We study the history and archaeology which has preserved elements of the life of the past.
Classics is for everyone, and Latin, in particular, is of benefit to pupils no matter what their ability. We introduce the subject for study as a combination of Latin language and ancient civilisation studied in English.
Studying Latin helps with learning Romance languages, and also aids in the understanding of our own language. Did you know that the majority of words in English come from Latin roots?
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Latin is not currently studied in Years 10-11 but there is potential for students to do so in future.
Results gained by Bishop Challoner pupils in Latin have been consistently excellent.
Classical Civilisation A level, studied entirely in English, is also available for Sixth Form students.
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The department aims to run trips to UK sites and to both Greece and Italy on a regular basis, so that the pupils are able to experience the material culture of the ancient world first hand. We also welcome visitors to school including authors, curators and re-enactors.
Mathematics is a fascinating subject that provides opportunities for students to develop a skill set that can be applied when attempting to solve real world mathematical problems. We hope to inspire the students to develop their understanding and analytical skills to meet the ever changing needs of today's technological society.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 & 8)
In Key Stage 3, Mathematics is taught under the main strands of: Number, Algebra, Data Handling, Measure, Shape and Space.
During lessons, students will develop their skills in understanding a variety of mathematical concepts and how different areas of mathematics link together. Further, they are taught how different concepts can be applied to a variety of puzzles and problems, which prepares them for the harder challenges in GCSE. There are extra-curricular opportunities for students, such as competing in the UKMT Maths Challenge and the provision of STEM club.
Key Stage 4 (Years 9, 10 & 11)
All students in Years 9, 10 and 11 are encouraged to take the higher tier GCSE. The course is assessed by three equally weighted examinations at the end of year 11 - two of the examinations are calculator based and one is non-calculator based. Students build on the skills learnt at Key Stage 3, with an increased focus on the ability to interpret, analyse and solve problems. Elements of functional mathematics are also embedded into the curriculum so that students have the skills they need to apply mathematics in real life contexts.
We consider every student to possess the skills to be a musician. Music is not an additional activity but a subject where pupils who wish to pursue it to the highest level can achieve that goal. Some of our students attend conservatoire junior departments and students go on to study music at university and conservatoires.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
At Key Stage 3, students are exposed to a variety of musical styles. In each year a western classical style, a popular style and a world style are studied.
Year 7 students study: The Elements of Music; Pop Song Singing; Instruments of the Orchestra, Keyboard Skills,Baroque and World Music
Year 8 students study: Grade 1 music theory; Musical Theatre; Film Music; Blues; Improvisation; Classical Variations and Ukulele
Year 9 students study: Song writing; Film music; Cover Band; Minimalism and Electronic Dance Music
Students learn about these styles through both performance and compositional tasks using software such as Noteflight and CuBase. These tasks allow students to build up a strong theoretical understanding, including understanding notation, as well as a wide musical vocabulary with which to appraise the music. This curriculum prepares all students to go on and study music at GCSE and A level.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
The course allows students of a range of abilities and interests to broaden and develop their knowledge of music through performance, composition and appraising. There are four areas of study; the western classical tradition, popular music, world music and modern classical.
The music from The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album, Santana's Supernatural album and Haydn's Clock Symphony is scrutinised more closely. More time is spent on composing and performance, often using music software such as Logic and Sibelius. Students are provided with the opportunity to establish their own musical identi.
The umbrella of Performing Arts covers a wide range of areas, from dance and drama to set and costume design. In Key Stage 3 we cover all areas within lesson time leaving you to choose a specialism in Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. Building confidence and independence is particularly important in Performing Arts.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Throughout Key Stage 3 we look at the areas of performing and developing as well as appreciation and evaluation. Pupils are expected to work in groups and co-operate with others to create finished performances linking to set texts, current affairs and age appropriate topics. They are encouraged to perform, however, other areas of set design, lighting and prop making can also be explored. Drama techniques will be established but other performance areas such as dance can also be developed.
Dance is a powerful and expressive subject which encourages students to develop their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, whatever their previous experience in the subject.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Performance Units total 60%
- A solo performance 15% (approximately one minute in duration).
- Duet/trio performance 15% (maximum of five minutes in duration).
- Choreography 30%: Solo or group choreography – a solo or a group dance for two to five dancers.
The practical units are internally marked and externally moderated.
Written exam total 40%
What is assessed:
- Knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills.
- Critical appreciation of own work and the work of others.
GCSE Drama is an exciting, inspiring and practical course. It promotes involvement in and enjoyment of drama as performers and/or designers. Additionally, it provides opportunities to attend live theatre performances and to develop skills as informed and thoughtful audience members.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Component 1: Devising Theatre 40% of qualification
Pupils will be assessed on either acting or design and participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of devised theatre.
Assessment method:
- A realisation of their piece of devised theatre
- A portfolio of supporting evidence
- An evaluation of the final performance or design
Component 2: Performing from a Text 20% of qualification
Externally assessed by a visiting examiner, assessed on either acting or design.
Pupils will study two extracts from the same performance text and will participate in one performance using sections of text from both extracts.
Component 3: Interpreting Theatre 40% of qualification
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Section A: Set Text
A series of questions on one set text.
Section B: Live Theatre Review
One question, from a choice of two, requiring analysis and evaluation of a given aspect of a live theatre production seen during the course.
The aim of PE at Bishop Challoner is to provide an outstanding provision of sport and physical activity to pupils of all abilities, cultivating a life-long love and participation in activity.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
All students participate in a wide range of individual and team sports, including football, hockey, cross country, athletics, netball, cricket and rounders. There are many opportunities to represent the school at local, regional and national competitions. We are fortunate to have access to Bromley's best sporting facilities, which provide an ideal teaching environment for our students. Students are expected to participate in house sporting competitions throughout the year.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
In addition to sports participated in during Key Stage 3, pupils have access to a wider range of sports and exercise which includes table tennis, badminton, basketball and dance. All students in Key Stage 4 will participate in sport and exercise for at least two periods each week, in addition to representing school teams in several different sports.
Physical Education is a popular GCSE option for students interested in pursuing a career within the sports industry. Students will be assessed in three sports in addition to studying for two theory-based examination papers.
Physics is ever more exciting! Many challenges are yet to be explained. Our younger generations will be the ones to address them. At Bishop Challoner School, we aim to inspire our future physicists and show students the breadth of interesting and modern roles that learning physics could lead to. Physics will equip them with amazing problem solving skills. Physics is all around us in our daily lives. It is found in tactile screen, mobile phones, medical imaging, nanotechnologies, enhanced reality...
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 & 8)
At KS3, students follow the Activate scheme of work. Each year, a term is devoted to studying physics, expanding notions of science learnt at KS2 as well as introducing new knowledge. In year 7, students learn about forces, sound, light and space. In year 8, students rediscover electricity and magnetism, energy, motion and pressure. The aim is also for students to acquire key practical skills and terminology that is then developed further at KS4. This scheme of work is rigorous and prepares students well for their GCSEs in year 9.
GCSE (Years 9, 10 & 11)
In year 9, every pupil studies physics in preparation for his or her GCSEs. In years 10 and 11, students are placed in two sets. One group will prepare for the physics GCSE whilst the second group will work towards the combined science double GCSE.
The range of topics is varied, increasing knowledge and passion for physics. It includes Energy transformations, Electromagnetic waves, the Universe and the formation of elements, Forces and Mechanics, Electricity, the Nuclear atom, Physics and Medicine, Optics and Magnetism. During the course of KS4, students develop further their investigative and analytical skills, trying to expand models explaining the processes around us.
As a Catholic school, Religious Education is at the heart of all students' academic endeavours. Bishop Challoner follows the requirements of the Religious Education Curriculum Directory for Catholic Schools. We aim to empower all students with religious literacy and a sense of their place in this world. Academic studies are shaped in such a way to allow students to develop their understanding of religion but also to reflect upon what it means to have faith and to be spiritual. All lessons are placed in the context of the Catholic faith and are inclusive of the faith journey of each student.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Students follow “The Way, The Truth and The Life” programme, supplemented with a study of our school community and tradition. They explore the three monotheistic religions from a perspective of key beliefs and practices. Students will be introduced to the academic rigour of Religious Education through the medium of Theology, Philosophy and Ethics. Underpinning this there is always the opportunity for students to explore their own faith and relationship with God and others.
Key Stage 4 – GCSE
Students' main area of focus is the Catholic faith and their GCSE studies will allow them to explore Catholicity in great depth and detail. The topics of Creation, Incarnation, The Triune God, Redemption, Church and Eschatology will be studied. Following this, students will engage with religious, philosophical and ethical issues relating to relationships and families; and peace and conflict. The GCSE also includes a study of Jewish key beliefs and practices. The course is based on the Catholic tradition, however, students are encouraged to reflect upon Christian doctrine in the light of their own faith.
Pupils have the opportunity to study Spanish from Year 8 at Bishop Challoner. Each lesson encourages pupils to be independent learners of Spanish.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Languages at Key Stage 3 incorporate vocabulary learning, oral practice, listening and reading skills, dictionary skills, writing practice and the study of grammar. Pupils are tested regularly and assessed half termly to track progress.
Pupils are encouraged to use Spanish in the classroom where possible and consolidate topics through homework and class work tasks. Spanish pupils use Mira 1 and Mira 2 textbooks.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
GCSE Spanish pupils study the following three themes within the two years: Identity and Culture, Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest and Current and Future Study and Employment.
There is no coursework and pupils will sit four separate examinations in listening, reading, speaking and writing at the end of Year 11. Each exam is worth 25%.
Enrichment
Languages Day gives pupils an opportunity to learn about the importance of learning other languages and pupils take part in a number of activities throughout the day. This includes quizzes, watching films in another language, eating foreign food and speaking new languages in class. It is a day to celebrate cultural diversity.
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