A broad and varied curriculum
At NBH Canonbury, our Senior School curriculum (Years 7–11) is designed to inspire curiosity, stretch potential, and lay strong foundations for future academic and personal success.
Students study a balanced range of core subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, and Modern Foreign Languages, while exploring a breadth of specialist options such as Computer Science, Design & Technology, and the Creative Arts. This varied and ambitious curriculum nurtures individual interests while preparing students for the rigours of GCSE and beyond.
* Students select between French or Spanish and Latin or Mandarin upon entry.
Key Stage 4
GCSE
In Years 10 and 11 (ages 14-16), pupils select three GCSE subjects of their choice to study alongside the compulsory subjects of English (Language and Literature), Maths and Science (Double Award with Triple Award available as an option). They also have compulsory weekly Enrichment, P.E. and PSHE sessions but are not examined in these subjects, unless they have selected P.E. as one of their three GCSE options.
By invitation from the Maths Department, some students will be invited to study Additional Maths.
Students who wish to take PE as a GCSE subject choice will need to select it as one of their three GCSE option choices.
Some of our wider learning options vary annually depending on the cohort’s interests.
The core curriculum is complemented by a selection of wider learning options:
Duke of Edinburgh's Award (optional)
Enrichment
Games
Graded Music Exams (optional)
LAMDA (optional)
PSHEE
Sports Leaders Award (optional)
* Courses may vary in availability each year depending on uptake.
A tailored teaching approach
Our 'high support, low pressure' philosophy is woven into every lesson. Small class sizes allow for personalised teaching, enabling staff to adapt to each learner’s strengths and challenges. With differentiated teaching methods, meaningful feedback, and one-to-one mentoring, we help students build the confidence to take academic risks and embrace new ideas. As noted by the Good Schools Guide, our “differentiated and hi-tech teaching” supports exceptional student progress and engagement.
Skills for GCSE and beyond
Across every subject, students develop essential life skills including critical thinking, collaboration, communication and independence. Whether through presentations, debates, or cross-curricular projects, our students learn to articulate ideas, think laterally, and work as part of a team. These skills not only prepare them for academic assessments but also equip them for further study and the fast-changing world of work.
Enrichment
Character development within the curriculum
Senior School students benefit from a structured enrichment programme that supports wider learning and character growth. One timetabled session per week gives students the opportunity to explore interests beyond the core curriculum, whether that’s LAMDA, robotics, environmental action, or our student-led newspaper.
Many also take on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (Bronze or Silver), building resilience, leadership and community engagement along the way. These experiences foster confidence, creativity, and a genuine love of learning - key attributes for GCSE success and future life.