Prospectus> Dunhurst > Academic Curriculum >Introduction

The strength of Dunhurst's curriculum is its breadth. Teachers empower the pupil to discover and learn. Much emphasis is placed upon helping children to find out for themselves, and upon study skills - a good work ethic, with self-motivation and self-discipline. We are not bound by the restrictions of the Common Entrance syllabus. Our curriculum is guided by the National Curriculum and the needs and requirements of Bedales: it is broad and challenging, relevant and adaptable to change. Numeracy and literacy are given great emphasis but they are valued no more than Modern Languages, History, Geography, Science, Creative Studies, Dance, Drama, PE, ICT, Religion, Health Education and Outdoor Work. Pupils in the 'Groups' (Years 4-6) have their own teacher for cross curricular topic work. They also benefit from specialist teaching in Maths, ICT, Science, Creative Studies, PE and Dance/Drama.

In the 'Blocks' (Years 7 & 8) all subjects are taught by specialist teachers and pupils are in Tutor Groups. 'Greens' (Study Periods) are built into the timetable. These allow time for individual tuition, music (instrumental tuition and practice), tutorials, learning support, and for pupils to organise their prep, with their tutor always monitoring, reviewing, encouraging and pursuing, when necessary.