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In Key Stage 3 the emphasis is on enjoyment. Whilst the acquirement of skills is important, we encourage experimentation where students have a go at things outside of what they believe to be their ability. The courses include, drawing, painting, three dimensional work along with visits to galleries to increase their awareness and appreciation. Once students have completed the course, they will have increased their confidence and, at the same time will have heightened their awareness across the use of a wide range of visual elements.

Art and Design is a flexible course which is aimed at developing and improving students’ understanding of media, visual elements and their own creative ability. The QM Art staff will help individuals plan work that suits their interests and personal capabilities. Course Overview The Art and Design course requires students to work with a wide range of art media. Students have the opportunity to explore drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, digital software including PhotoShop, and three-dimensional materials. They will study the work of artists and designers as a means of informing their own work. The development of drawing skills is seen as a key part of the programme. The course begins with a short skills-based project. This is a condensed version of a full-scale project, using observation through photography and drawing, artist analysis and responses, and media explorations, to build confidence in how to explore an idea. The main project will be theme-based and students will develop their own ideas and final pieces. Together these coursework projects will be worth 60% of the total marks. The examination project is an externally set assignment where students develop their work in response to a theme and then complete a 10-hour practical examination. The examination piece and accompanying development is worth 40%.

Art Textiles is a flexible course which is aimed at developing and improving students’ understanding of media, visual elements and their own creative ability. The QM Art staff will help individuals plan work that suits their interests and personal capabilities. Course Overview The Art Textiles course requires students to work with a wide range of art and textiles media. They will study the work of textile artists and designers as a means of informing their own work. Experience in image manipulation through the use of Photoshop will be encouraged. The development of drawing skills is seen as a key part of the programme. The course begins with a short skills-based project. This is a condensed version of a full-scale project, using observation through photography and drawing, then manipulation of images leading to the development of textile samples. The main project will be theme-based and students will develop their own ideas and final pieces. Together these coursework projects will be worth 60% of the total marks. The examination project is an externally set assignment where students develop their work in response to a theme and then complete a 10-hour practical examination. The examination piece and accompanying development is worth 40%.

If you have an interest in living things and are keen on a career in Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry or Nursing, Biology is a relevant and exciting subject for you. Practical work brings the fascinating topics to life and all we ask for is your enthusiastic engagement and participation.

At Key Stage 5, whilst prior knowledge of the subject is not required, students need to have an interest in business and enjoy manipulating and analysing numerical information. The course develops research, numerical and communication skills, giving a broad commercial awareness.

If you have ever wondered why Apple command a premium price for their products or why ASOS only sell their clothes online then this is the vocational course for you.

Business is available from Key Stage 4. Studying a range of real life business scenarios students will look at their impact on decision making and develop an understanding of business concepts, objectives and terminology, gaining an understanding of the impact of internal and external issues and how they affect business operations. Students will explore the purpose and role of a business from identifying a gap in the market through to business planning and delivery. How marketing plays a role in identifying and satisfying customer needs and why a strong human resource management structure plays an important role in supporting a business right the way through the process. Operations and Finance will be key areas of learning, looking at how businesses respond to external market forces, such as ethical and environmental considerations, the economic climate and globalisation.

You will gain a wide range of skills, both practical and cognitive, through studying Chemistry. It gives you an insight into a variety of physical and biological phenomena through the understanding of chemical interactions and chemical processes.

This subject covers a wide range of interesting topics. As you study them you will acquire and develop the writing skills which you will find useful at university. You will also have the chance to express and explore your views in lively classroom debates.

You will study for three examination papers including 'The World of the Hero'; 'Greek Theatre' and 'Greek Religion'. Anyone can enjoy this subject - you do not need to have studied Classical Civilisation at any level before. This course will appeal to you if you enjoy discussing the big subjects of life: love, hate, and death.

Classical Civilization explores the dark and treacherous world of Roman politics. At GCSE we focus on myths and religion, discussing how the gods influenced the Greeks and Romans in their everyday life.

You will have the chance to look at various aspects of Greek andRoman life, to understand the people by reading the stories andplays they enjoyed, and compare their ideas to our own. You willstudy a variety of topics, including ancient religion and the gods,the story of Odysseus’s amazing adventures, and the different ways in which you can find out about the past.

Classical Greek is a fascinating subject in its own right. It is an interesting language to study and the literature of the ancient Greeks is among the finest in the world. Greek is highly respected by many universities; very few students have the chance to study this subject so it makes a very distinctive addition to a CV.

Most candidates have studied Greek successfully at GCSE. However this is not absolutely necessary if you have studied Latin.

If you have a passionate interest in the ancient world or an enthusiastic love of language, Classical Greek may be the perfect course for you.

Greek offers a unique introduction to the origins of modern European culture. The course gives you the opportunity to learn the Ancient Greek language and discover the civilisation and culture of the Greeks. The pace is fast, groups are small, and you will soon find that you have built up a good working knowledge of Greek.

In Key Stage 4, Computer Science is a creative subject that will engage learners with the modern world of computing and prepare them for many different routes, both in and outside the world of IT. You will learn to think innovatively, analytically, logically and critically through studying this subject!This course will deepen your understanding of how computers work and how they are embedded into all areas of our lives. You will study Computer Systems, including: networks and security, computer architecture, ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology; Computational thinking, algorithms and programming, including: programming fundamentals, producing robust programs and programming languages and Integrated Development Environments; Practical programming - You will develop your programming skills by producing and creating your own programmes and software to solve real-world problems and develop something entirely new and unique!

In Key Stage 3 Computing is taught across the three cornerstones of the subject; Information Technology (IT), Computer Science (CS) and Digital Literacy (DL). The IT and DL strands see students learn how to use the technologies and software that they come in contact with across all of the school subjects and further afield as they move on through their education and career paths. In the CS strand students study how computers work, programming and game design using the Scratch and Python programming languages and Physical Computing using the Microbit and Raspberry Pi Computers.

GCSE Drama allows the study of texts in greater depth and for the production of practical work that is the product of a long rehearsal process. The three key areas of the course include a group devised piece; a scripted performance and a written examination exploring the creative elements of the script and live theatre experience.

QM’s Drama Department is a living, breathing organism a flurry with actors, directors, dancers, technicians, stage managers, artists and academics. As our strong tradition of outstanding Drama grows, so does our ambition. Those who wish to pursue a career in the arts, as well as those who thrive on the academic rigour of analysing and exploring texts are encouraged to study with us.

Drama and Theatre in Key Stage 5 is concerned with the study of live performance. Students will hone their skills as a theatre maker, as well as analysing theatrical practitioners of the past and present to reach an understanding of what creates great theatre. Looking at a range of Drama styles and techniques they will attend live theatre to gain inspiration for their own work.

With outstanding facilities including a technical theatre with full time technician, state of the art theatre, sound and lighting systems and a full-scale carpenters’ workshops below the Centenary Building. Beneath the School are the old vaults, which store in excess of 1000 costumes and prop items. Students have full access to this fantastic resource when developing their examination work and showcases. Alongside the fantastic theatre, there is also additional practical rehearsal space (the Grey Area) and a traditional classroom for academic Drama lessons in which students analyse texts and prepare for written examinations. The Department regularly welcomes visiting Practitioners to run workshops and in the past these have included Frantic Assembly, Stomp, West End Choreographers, Puppeteers, Dramaturges, Actors and Signers.

Offered at Key Stage 5 only, Economics encourages students to analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of government within it. For those with an interest in both domestic and international politics, social, economic and financial issues, Economics gives students an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life.

Students get the chance to attend the prestigious The Political Economy UK Group conferences in London. This is a fantastic opportunity to hear from eight prestigious speakers from the world of economics. Previous speakers have included Politicians, Shadow Chancellors, Economics Editors from national and financial publications, The Office for Budget Responsibility and The Institute for Fiscal Studies.

Students are encouraged to participate in The Student Investor Challenge – the UK’s premier investment competition with over 400,000 students from 2,500 schools taking part. The competition involves teams investing £100,000 virtual money on the London Stock Exchange, ensuring portfolios are kept healthy throughout the ups and downs of the market and judging when to buy and sell with the aim of making a profit. It’s all to play for with some fantastic prizes available to further incentivise this opportunity.

In key stage 3 Years I-III (7-9), Language and Literature are taught as an integrated subject. Each year group studies a Shakespeare play, a 20th Century play, a modern novel and a selection of poetry from across the ages. Special emphasis is given to reading, but also writing English for a wide variety of audiences and purposes.

By studying English Language you will develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively in both speech and writing.

You will learn how to employ a wide-ranging vocabulary, use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, and develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed. You will be encouraged to read widely, both for your own enjoyment and to further your awareness of the ways in which English can be used.

This course would particularly suit students considering careers in Media, Law and Advertising, or any career where strong communication skills are important. You will be well equipped to study a wide range of English Language and Literature, Linguistics, Humanities, Business, Marketing and Social Sciences courses at university.

The A Level course consists of three modules - encouraging students to engage creatively, critically and independently with a range of texts. The subject content includes analysis of literary and non-literary tests alongside the study of the social, historical and artistic variables affecting language use.

In key stage 5 LVI-UVI (Sixth Form), English Literature classes study a wide range of prose, poetry and drama from Shakespeare to the present day. English Literature encourages you to engage imaginatively, critically and independently with a variety of texts. The subject content includes analysis of literary texts and the study of the social, historical and artistic contexts in which they are created.

In key stage 4 Years IV-V (10-11), studies will comprise an appreciation of a Shakespeare play, a classic novel and the analysis of set poems and unseen poetry. For further information visit www.aqa.org.uk.

Fine Art at QM is rooted in drawing and embraces a diverse range of media. There is no house style so students are supported to work to their interests and strengths. From large-scale painting to installation, three-dimensional work to illustration, our artists are taught technical skills and given the freedom to express themselves. Our Fine Artists also benefit from our outstanding facilities including well-lit painting studios, large-scale screen printing equipment, and a kiln.

Food Preparation is an exciting and challenging subject. In Key Stage 3 you will learn how to make well presented dishes and develop into skilled, confident and knowledgeable practitioners of all things food. Knowledge of nutrition is essential and you will be taught how to maintain a healthy lifestyle by making the correct food choices and recognising the impact of your diet upon your health as a whole. The government guidelines for a healthy lifestyle are taught from Year I, along with the use of the Eatwell Guide as reference for your choices.

Understanding where your food comes from is essential and in Key Stage 4 you will study food provenance, sustainability, ethical and moral considerations and the impact of your choices upon the environment. You will also learn about the functions and chemical properties of ingredients, how to plan, budget and produce high quality dishes using a variety of local and international produce. Learning how to cook is an essential life skill. It enables you to be responsible for your own wellbeing and it encourages sociability, team work, independence and self-esteem. You will carry the skills you learn in this subject forward for the rest of your life.

French is a popular A-Level choice and in Key Stage 5 girls develop the skills to communicate confidently and learn to understand more complex and varied written and spoken language. The course aims to develop girls’ knowledge of the country and its culture and students are encouraged to watch films and read more widely to enhance their cultural and linguistic awareness. Girls attend weekly conversation classes to improve fluency and pronunciation skills, in pairs in LVI and individually in UVI.

In Key Stage 4, students are advised to study at least one modern language. Here the course aims to develop greater proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, writing and translation and during this time new areas of language are introduced. These include: relationships with family and friends, technology, free time activities, customs and festivals, home, town, region, charity and voluntary work, healthy living, the environment, poverty and homelessness, travel and tourism, life at school and jobs and careers. Conversation skills are further improved through weekly conversation lessons which are run in small groups. At the end of Year V, the majority of girls are entered for the higher tier language papers and examination results are of a high standard.

In Key Stage 3, students study French, encouraging the development of skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing and translation along with an introduction to grammar. Topics covered include personal identity, family, pets, school, hobbies, hometown, weather, daily routine, food and drink, health and holidays.

Further Mathematics is recommended for able Mathematicians who enjoy their Mathematics and want to study each area in more detail. This course is also recommended to girls who want to study Mathematics in some form in higher education and to those thinking of applying for Mathematics, Science or ICT-based courses at Oxbridxge.

Girls must also be taking the Mathematics A Level in order to take the Further Mathematics A Level. Further Pure Mathematics explores the wider themes within Pure Mathematics as well as taking familiar concepts to a much deeper level.

Students work towards their IGCSE over three years from Years III-V. This allows each topic to be studied rigorously with additional time for revision. Learnings are related to real life problems, statistics, mechanics and pure Mathematics which involves improving algebra and trigonometry as well as introducing new ideas such a logarithms and calculus.

In Key Stage 5 students learn the value of Geography both in its own right but also as a facilitator subject in the manner in which it bridges the Arts and the Sciences. The course explores the meaning, causes and impacts of a number of headline global issues from Energy Security, Economic Regeneration and Human Rights to Emerging Superpowers and Tectonic Hazards, all with a strong synoptic overview of issues, players and solutions. Girls also undertake an Independent Investigation which hones not only their project planning skills but also their ability to apply knowledge and understanding to interpret, analyse and evaluate geographical information and issues and make reasoned judgements.

Students build their basic Geographical knowledge in more depth and breadth during Key Stage 4. The course explores a wide range of current geographical issues from flooding and climate change to global urbanisation and water security issues. The examples are drawn at a global scale and where problems are raised and solutions are explored.

At Key Stage 3 students explore a range of themes that will resonate with what they may have seen on the news or experienced directly. Topics covered include World Biomes, Migration, Globalisation and Development. The exploration of these ideas through generic strands of learning can be further extended through project and presentation work and decision making exercises.

Studying Graphic Communication at QM brings creativity and technical skill together with commercial awareness. Graphics is ‘Art with Purpose’, and often this purpose is to promote and sell; although our briefs can be bizarre and fun, think ‘hotel on the moon’! Students are taught the skills to be able to communicate a message through image and text, considering how the formal elements of design convey the values of a brand or event. Students will develop work using physical and digital media, often combining both into unique and impactful designs

Research and independent learning are key in Key Stage 5 with a choice of modules which deliberately reflect a broad chronological range as well as a balance of British and international history. From the Wars of the Roses and the establishment of the Tudor dynasty; an investigation of Hitler’s Third Reich in Germany 1933-45; the Tudors, 1547-1603 and the heresy in the medieval European Church. The department seeks to develop skills of independent learning in a supportive fashion that helps to manage the transition to university.

Key Stage 4 chooses depth over breadth as girls study a course focused on international history in the twentieth century. The choice of topics aim to give students an appreciation of the two superpowers whose competing ideologies shaped the twentieth century, and their differences. Explored in Stalinism in Russia 1924-53 and the Roaring Twenties in the USA, 1919-29. The Second World War, International Relations 1919-39 and the History of Medicine add an even further depth to the curriculum.

In Key Stage 3, the emphasis of teaching is primarily focused on British history from 1066 to the 20^th Century. The aim being to help students understand life in Britain today and our place in the world. International history features in the curriculum when it has particular relevance for understanding British history.

This subject teaches girls to look in radically different ways at the material culture which surrounds us, from the Fine Arts through to expressions of popular culture. From this we can develop a vivid understanding of history. The subject provides skills which are valuable far beyond the classroom.

Latin enriches any combination of A Level subjects, and is respected by universities. You learn more about the magnificent literature of the Romans and about how languages really work. As you develop your translation skills, you will also improve your own powers of analysis and expression.

You do not need to have studied this subject before, but you should certainly have a passion for the visual arts. Art History is a Humanities subject and as such is most similar to English or History. The subject requires a significant amount of reading and teaches the skills of critical analysis and essay writing.

Learning Latin will give you a greater precision of thought and clarity of communication. It is also prized as both a foundation for understanding languages and literature and as an intellectual discipline in its own right.

Providing a wonderful insight into the world of languages and literature, this course gives you the opportunity to find out more about the Latin language and about the civilisation and culture of the Romans. You will revise and consolidate the grammar you have covered so far, and build upon this to achieve a good working knowledge of Latin.

All girls start Latin in Year I, and the Cambridge Latin Course introduces them to the fascinating world of the Romans and their language. At GCSE and A level we read an exciting range of extracts from Roman literature. We explore the cut-and-thrust of political speeches and follow the adventures of the Trojan leader Aeneas, as he struggles to establish a new home for his people.

In Year III we introduce Classical Civilization, exploring the dark and treacherous world of Roman politics.

Mandarin is a group of related varieties of Chinese spoken across most of northern and southwestern China. This A Level choice is available to native speakers only and comprises four key papers around speaking; listening, reading, translation; writing and usage and chinese culture essay in english. The successful completion of the GCSE course in Mandarin in a prerequisite for continuing with the subject at A Level. An interest in communication and in learning about the culture of the countries where the language is spoken is essential.

When opting to study Mathematics at A Level, girls have the opportunity to take Further Mathematics. This is recommended for able Mathematicians who enjoy their Mathematics and who want to study each area in greater detail.

Small class sizes and one to one support throughout the key stages is backed up by a full range of resources available on the virtual learning environment. If further support is required, students are also encouraged to attend lunchtime clinics, which run three times a week. High achievers are encouraged to broaden their experience of mathematics through extension work in lessons or preps and take part in UKMT Mathematics team challenges at both intermediate and senior level.

Students work towards their IGCSE over three years from Years III-V. Girls are given the opportunity to further strengthen and develop their knowledge and understanding of key mathematical concepts and techniques and apply these logically and creatively to solve increasingly complex problems.

Mathematics students’ develop perseverance and resourcefulness in solving problems and are stimulated to think both logically and creatively. In Key Stage 3, courses are firmly based on the national curriculum, providing a solid foundation for future learning. Focusing on key concepts in number, algebra, shape and data, students are encouraged to make connections between different branches of mathematics and fostering a creative and questioning approach with a strong emphasis on developing problem solving skills.

A Level Music is a stimulating and rewarding course designed to challenge, enrich and development keen musicians graduating from study at GCSE. Whilst a natural option for vocational musicians, it is also a highly valued A Level among Universities due to the academic rigours of the course; with our students demonstrating resilience, commitment to their craft and a breadth of both creative and analytical skills. Our students will study classical and popular compositional techniques, supported with one-to-one tuition in this area. Academically, the girl’s study in great detail; the development of the Classical Symphony, Rock and Pop, Aural Analysis Skills and 20th Century styles (Neoclassicism, Impressionism and Expressionism). Practically, the completion of the A Level Recital is a wonderful occasion in the school year in which we celebrate what is often a high point in our students’ performing career so far. We undertake a rigorous preparation process to ensure our girls’ are confident and in the months preceding, all of our musicians have complimentary access to our Head of Keyboard Studies and Accompanist, Miss Kornas who provides invaluable additional support as a repetiteur. We carefully choose repertoire specifically tailored to our students’ individual strengths and most notably, the students benefit from the option of working towards chamber ensemble repertoire working alongside our fantastic Visiting Music Teachers. Often, it is in working alongside our professional musicians that we often see our student’s rise to their full potential.

GCSE Music not only gives an excellent foundation for further study at A Level but also imparts a wealth of transferable and lifelong skills including analytical essay writing, creativity through composition and confidence fostered through performance and ensemble projects. Students undoubtedly emerge from GCSE Music as more rounded and capable musicians and our small class sizes mean that our students benefit from individual one-to-one support when it comes to the coursework to really ensure they fulfil their creative potential. The course covers Performance (30% coursework), Composition (30% coursework) and Written/Listening Paper (40%) covering a stimulating and exciting breadth of study, from the historical eras of Baroque, Classical and Romantic Music to Jazz, Rock and Film Music. Lessons are often characterized by hard work, laughter and it is often a joy to see the GCSE class develop a close bond through a shared love of Music and support for one another’s performances throughout the course.

At Key Stage 3, the girls follow a varied programme which will equip them with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to enjoy engaging with music, whether in a formal or informal context. The building of confidence, communication, rehearsal and ensemble skills are core to our approach and lessons are always fully inclusive and hands-on. As they progress, girls will get increasing opportunities to work in small groups to develop independent learning skills. Our ‘Just Play’ units ensure that all girls have functional skills at the piano, guitar and ukulele with stylistic and theoretical knowledge built into the schemes pragmatically. Other topics include Jazz, Find your voice, Japanese Taiko and African Djembe Drumming, Writing Protest Songs and musical technology skills. We often hear the work covered in these classes being practised or sung by the girls in and around the school and the student’s get clear satisfaction in our end of topic performances.

“You do not take a photograph, you make it” (Ansel Adams). In Photography A Level at QM, students learn how to make photographs, getting to grips with every element of a successful image from the technical to the creative. Students are taught how to use manual settings on their camera, manipulate light, control studio set-ups, organise models, edit using PhotoShop, whilst also exploring how an image can creatively convey an atmosphere and a narrative.

You will investigate the reasons why some people outperform others both mentally and physically in Key Stage 5. Paying particular attention to the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and the influence that modern technology is having on physical activity and sport.

In Key Stage 4, Applied Anatomy and Physiology involves the study of bones, muscles, respiration and biomechanics. This is complemented with Sports Psychology looking at information processing, feedback and aggression in sport and socio-cultural influences in physical activity and sport.

Physics explores the world, analysing nature’s building blocks to give you an understanding of how they can be put together and interact with one another. Developing your core skill set, Physics opens the door to a range of careers. Developing your practical skill set and capabilities, you will be able to easily review facts and draw reasoned, logical conclusions.

Politics identifies how governments work and how people interact with their political system. We examine the political systems in the UK and the USA at a period where both systems appear under considerable pressure. The course identifies where power lies, as well as how we, as individuals, can shape political decisions and examine the different ideological traditions which shape most of our political parties today.

No specific content knowledge is required, but students do need a good standard of written English because of the essay-based nature of the subject. The course is well suited to students who enjoy reading and commitment to keeping up to date with often rapidly-changing political events. The department employs a range of teaching strategies to deliver content in a stimulating way. Assessment is exclusively through extended writing and challenging analysis of source material.

In A Level Psychology girls will study human behaviour and develop their analytical skills. They will have the opportunity to take part in debates, understand the way the brain works and find explanations for why people behave in a certain way. A feature of the Psychology A Level course is that candidates must be able to demonstrate their knowledge of psychological principles, terminology, concepts, empirical research and psychological methods in relation to the main topic areas. In addition, candidates must develop an ability to question the theoretical and methodological approaches upon which they are based. A Level Psychology covers topics including Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology, Relationships, Aggression and Schizophrenia.

At GCSE Religious Studies encourages students to learn how religion and ethics form the basis of today’s culture and develop valuable skills that will help them to prepare for further study. Christanity and Judaism form the main components of the course. Gaining a thorough understanding of Christianity as one of the diverse religious traditions and beliefs in Great Britain today students will study the beliefs, teachings and practices of both Christianity and Judaism as sources of wisdom and authority.

Religious Studies in Key Stage 3 encourages students to learn how religion and ethics form the basis of today’s culture and develop valuable skills that will help them to prepare for further study. Christanity and Judaism form the main components of the course. Gaining a thorough understanding of Christianity as one of the diverse religious traditions and beliefs in Great Britain today students will study the beliefs, teachings and practices of both Christianity and Judaism as sources of wisdom and authority.

All girls study Biology, Chemistry and Physics and there are two routes of study, both of which involve separate lessons in each of the three sciences. The first route leads to the award of a separate GCSE in each of the three sciences. Girls with greater aptitude and ability in Science will follow this route which involves studying extra topics. The second route leads to the award of two GCSEs through the AQA Combined Science - Trilogy course. Both routes will provide girls with sufficient background to follow A Level courses in any or all of the three sciences in the Sixth Form.

In Key Stage 3 studies cover a mix of the sciences with the aim of developing scientific understanding and building up skills for working scientifically in future studies.

Spanish is a popular A-Level choice and in Key Stage 5 girls develop the skills to communicate confidently and learn to understand more complex and varied written and spoken language. The course aims to develop girls’ knowledge of the country and its culture and students are encouraged to watch films and read more widely to enhance their cultural and linguistic awareness. Girls attend weekly conversation classes to improve fluency and pronunciation skills, in pairs in LVI and individually in UVI.

In Key Stage 4, students are advised to study at least one modern language. Here the course aims to develop greater proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, writing and translation and during this time new areas of language are introduced. These include: relationships with family and friends, technology, free time activities, customs and festivals, home, town, region, charity and voluntary work, healthy living, the environment, poverty and homelessness, travel and tourism, life at school and jobs and careers. Conversation skills are further improved through weekly conversation lessons which are run in small groups. At the end of Year V, the majority of girls are entered for the higher tier language papers and examination results are of a high standard.

In Key Stage 3, students study Spanish, encouraging the development of skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing and translation along with an introduction to grammar. Topics covered include personal identity, family, pets, school, hobbies, hometown, weather, daily routine, food and drink, health and holidays.

Key stage 3 students have the opportunity to experience and develop a number of sports both within the curriculum and as co-curricular enrichment activities. Depending on the season, Hockey, Lacrosse, Netball, Tennis, Cricket and Rounders are taught alongside Athletics, Swimming, Gymnastics and Cross Country. Students enjoy a packed fixture list full of competitions either at home or further afield, giving girls many opportunities to hone their skills.

Textile art is one of the oldest forms of art in human civilization, but here at QM it is constantly reinventing itself and we use a diverse range of media in our work. Students are supported to work in creative ways to fulfil their own interests; from large-scale works to small-scale embroidery; from 3D sculptures to delicate fabrics. Students are taught technical skills and given the freedom to express themselves and their ideas. Our Textiles students also benefit from our outstanding facilities including well-lit studios, large-scale screen printing equipment and plenty of sewing machines.

The emphasis of teaching in Years I-III is on learning key skills such as using sewing machines and learning hand stitching, whilst focusing on using the work of established Textile artists as starting points for creative projects. Utilising skills in a variety of ways, you will be able to understand the means and methods by which artists make, by creating your own work inspired by them.