Learning Areas

At Hasmonean High School, all students follow a broad and balanced curriculum at Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8). At Key Stage 4 (Years 9-11), there is a core curriculum as well as an extended programme of optional subjects designed to allow each student's abilities and interests to develop to the full.

In the Sixth Form, students are offered a wide range of academic and vocational courses for in-depth study. A core programme of Jewish Studies runs throughout the school in all Key Stages.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8)

In Key Stage 3, all students follow a common programme of study in line with the National Curriculum. Classes are taught in ability groups with the exception of Art, ICT, Music, PE and Technology.

The core subjects in the curriculum are Jewish Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, Modern Foreign Languages, Music, Art and Design, ICT, PE, Geography, History, Textiles, Food, Textiles Technologies and Resistant Materials Technologies.

Students also follow a Personal, Social and Health Education programme that includes Citizenship, Work-related Learning and Careers Education and Guidance.

Key Stage 4 - The GCSE Years (Years 9–11)

The Key Stage 4 curriculum provides breadth and depth for all students. Over twenty different subjects are offered at GCSE level.

All students are required to study Jewish Studies, English, Mathematics, Science and PE. Students also opt for additional subjects from Humanities, Creative Arts, Business Education, Emerging Technologies and Modern Foreign Languages.

Students benefit from Work-related Learning programmes and Careers’ Guidance. All students undertake two weeks of work experience in a wide range of fields from law and education and social care community work to fashion design.

In all their studies, our students benefit from a programme of continuous improvements to the education technology and facilities we offer. The Business Studies department in the Boys' School was recently redesigned and refurbished, and a new two-storey classroom block, along with a second ICT room, opened in the Girls’ School in 2004.

Key Stage 5 - The Sixth Form (Years 12–13)

The Hasmonean Sixth Form currently numbers over 250 students.

In Year 12, we offer students the opportunity to take AS Levels. Typically, four subjects are taken. This usually leads, in Year 13, to a more in-depth study of three subjects to full A Level. Students are given guidance in Year 11 to help them select their AS and A Level subjects. Further sixth form vocational courses are available in Beauty Therapy (BTEC) for the girls. All students continue to follow a programme of Jewish Studies.

Students at Hasmonean almost invariably go on to further academic study of both Jewish and secular learning. As well-rounded scholars, they are fully equipped for further learning and the world of work and to take their place in the Jewish and wider community as active and responsible citizens.

Many students enjoy being able to choose a mix of traditional and vocational studies in the Sixth Form. During the course of Years 11 and 12, students are provided with far-reaching opportunities to extend their personal development. Sixth Form students are also encouraged to take responsibility for organising activities for the lower school.

A Careers' Fair is held at the school bi-annually, and students also have the opportunity to visit the Barnet Careers’ Fair. The school's Careers' Coordinator is always available to offer advice and we benefit from a fully stocked Careers’ Library.