Sunday 14 March 2010
In Upper I and II all pupils study a broad, balanced curriculum based on the Scottish 5-14 Guidelines. The week consists of 40 periods of 40 minutes and the following subjects are studied: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, French, German OR Latin, Geography, History, Modern Studies, Art and Design, Music, ICT, PE, RE and PSE.
Please note that Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught as separate subjects. That is invaluable when pupils come to make their choices for Standard Grade or Intermediate 2 in UIII and UIV.
In Upper I and II, all pupils are required to take French but they must also take either Latin or German.
In Upper III and IV pupils opt for eight or nine Standard Grade or Intermediate II subjects (eight tend to be the norm). The small classes, a strong system of Guidance, Support for Learning and stage-related Careers Education mean that attainment levels are very high. Standard Grade/Intermediate 1and 2 pass rates vary between 95% and 100%. Given the range of ability in the School these are figures that we are very proud of indeed.
English and Maths are compulsory, and we require pupils to study an additional language, at least one science and a social science subject, to ensure breadth of curriculum. Subjects available are: English, Maths, plus 6 from Art & Design, Biology, Business Management, Chemistry, French, Geography, German, History, ICT/Information Systems, Latin, Modern Studies, Music, PE, Physics.
In addition a 9th subject may be taken if PE is one of the choices.
All pupils have class Music, PE/Games and PSE, and those not taking PE have class Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies, which studies an SQA module.
Nearly all pupils then stay on for Upper V. Pupils select 4 or 5 Highers (or, if appropriate, Intermediate 2s in one or two subjects). The above subjects are available at Higher, with the addition of Accounting and Classical Studies. English is compulsory, and Maths recommended, but beyond that the choice is unrestricted.
Games remain compulsory and all pupils receive two periods per week dedicated to Civics, PSE or Careers guidance.
The vast majority remain at Albyn for UVI, where they choose a selection of Advanced Highers or Highers, in preparation for University/College entrance or a career. Between 93-97% of pupils leave for University. There are no obligatory subjects and in addition to the above subject range, we offer Spanish, Philosophy modules/Higher, Statistics and the European Computer Driving Licence, for whom we are a recognised centre.
Pupils have increased contact with universities and work placements are encouraged. The Games afternoon is compulsory for all in UVI and like UV pupils receive 2 periods per week on Civics, PSE or Careers guidance.