Senior School
Curriculum
Academic excellence. Intellectual curiosity
Foundations then choice
Our broad and engaging curriculum provides strong academic foundations while nurturing curiosity, creativity and confidence. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas and think independently, developing the literacy, numeracy and critical thinking skills that underpin future success.
As they progress through the Senior School, increasing choice and flexibility allow them to pursue their strengths and interests within a balanced and well-rounded education.
Where the Super Curriculum comes in
Learning extends beyond the classroom through academic enrichment, competitions, projects, trips and the Super Curriculum, helping students deepen their understanding and nurture their intellectual curiosity.
Supported by expert teachers and a culture that celebrates achievement, students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed at GCSE and beyond.
A curriculum that challenges, inspires and prepares students to thrive
Senior School curriculum journey
Years 7-11Â |Â Building Knowledge, Character and Confidence
Broad horizons. Deeper understanding.
At Bedford Modern Senior School, students benefit from a curriculum that combines breadth, depth and flexibility, allowing them to develop strong academic foundations while exploring their interests and talents. Throughout their Senior School journey, students are challenged to think independently, communicate effectively and develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for success both in examinations and beyond.
Years 7 and 8: building breadth and curiosity
In the early years of Senior School, all students follow a broad common curriculum designed to provide a strong grounding across a wide range of disciplines. Alongside the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science, students study Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, ICT, Design Technology, Music, Art and Drama. This breadth ensures that students continue to develop academically while discovering new interests, aptitudes and passions.
Years 9 to 11: developing choice and expertise
As students progress through the school, they are given increasing opportunities to shape their own academic pathway. Subject selection begins in Year 8, with students continuing to study the core subjects while choosing additional options that reflect their strengths and interests. From Year 9 onwards, students can select from subjects including Languages, Latin, Design Technology, Art, Drama and Music, enabling them to build a personalised programme of study.
GCSE studies: academic excellence with flexibility
At GCSE, students follow a balanced programme centred on English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and the separate Sciences. Alongside these core subjects, students choose additional options from a wide range of disciplines. Most students continue with both a Humanity and a Language, selecting from subjects including Geography, History, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, French, German, Spanish and Latin. Other popular options include Art, Product Design, Computer Science, Drama, Music and Physical Education, allowing students to pursue areas that inspire and challenge them.
Senior School curriculum journey
Years 7-11Â |Â Building Knowledge, Character and Confidence
Broad Horizons. Deeper Understanding.
At Bedford Modern Senior School, students benefit from a curriculum that combines breadth, depth and flexibility, allowing them to develop strong academic foundations while exploring their interests and talents. Throughout their Senior School journey, students are challenged to think independently, communicate effectively and develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for success both in examinations and beyond.
Years 7 and 8: Building Breadth and Curiosity
In the early years of Senior School, all students follow a broad common curriculum designed to provide a strong grounding across a wide range of disciplines. Alongside the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science, students study Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, ICT, Design Technology, Music, Art and Drama. This breadth ensures that students continue to develop academically while discovering new interests, aptitudes and passions.
Years 9 to 11: Developing Choice and Expertise
As students progress through the school, they are given increasing opportunities to shape their own academic pathway. Subject selection begins in Year 8, with students continuing to study the core subjects while choosing additional options that reflect their strengths and interests. From Year 9 onwards, students can select from subjects including Languages, Latin, Design Technology, Art, Drama and Music, enabling them to build a personalised programme of study.
GCSE Studies: Academic Excellence with Flexibility
At GCSE, students follow a balanced programme centred on English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and the separate Sciences. Alongside these core subjects, students choose additional options from a wide range of disciplines. Most students continue with both a Humanity and a Language, selecting from subjects including Geography, History, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, French, German, Spanish and Latin. Other popular options include Art, Product Design, Computer Science, Drama, Music and Physical Education, allowing students to pursue areas that inspire and challenge them.
“Whilst academic outcomes are important, our experience has been that BMS never lost sight of the child behind the grades, and for that we will always be grateful.”
BMS Parent