Senior School Curriculum

Openshaw Islamic Grammar School

Senior School Curriculum

Our Senior School Subjects

Openshaw Islamic Grammar School

Senior School Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

At Openshaw Islamic Grammar School (OIGS), we believe that a well-designed, inclusive curriculum is fundamental for securing academic excellence and nurturing the holistic development of every pupil. A curriculum that is broad, balanced and responsive to pupils’ needs and abilities is essential in motivating pupils, fostering ambition and maximising achievement.

Our Senior School curriculum reflects these core principles by offering both academic rigor and personalised learning pathways within a values-driven, faith-based educational environment. We aim to inspire and challenge each pupil to fulfil their potential and to develop into responsible, compassionate and well-rounded individuals, prepared for the demands of life beyond school and future careers.

Our Intent

Our curriculum is underpinned by the ambition to deliver a high-quality education for all pupils never just the few. We are committed to providing a vibrant learning experience that:

  • Promotes academic excellence within an Islamic moral framework
  • Encourages independent thought, curiosity and self-discipline
  • Builds confidence, leadership and resilience
  • Embeds the Fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance
  • Equips pupils with the skills and qualifications required for further education, training, or employment
  • Develops responsible citizens who contribute positively to society in accordance with Islamic Values and the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah

Our Implementation

The curriculum at OIGS is structured across Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) and Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11). It is designed to meet the needs of individual learners, supporting both academic excellence and personal development. Our approach ensures a rich blend of core subjects, foundation disciplines, creative arts and Islamic education, with strong cross-curricular links to personal development and global citizenship.

We place a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy and oracy as foundational competencies. Pupils are also supported in becoming independent learners who are self-aware, reflective and morally conscious.

Year 9 Options and GCSE Pathways

The Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural curriculum

In Year 9, pupils receive guided support in selecting GCSE subjects that align with their interests, strengths and career aspirations. All pupils study a core curriculum that includes:

  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Mathematics
  • Combined or Triple Science
  • Religious Studies / Islamic Studies
  • Physical Education
  • PSHE / Careers / Citizenship

Optional GCSE subjects typically include:

  • Business Studies
  • Computer Science
  • History or Geography
  • Art and Design
  • Modern Foreign Languages (Arabic and Spanish)

We encourage all pupils to pursue subjects that will support them in achieving the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), while ensuring flexibility for individual interests.

The Fundamental British Islamic (FBI) Vision Statement

We aim for all Openshaw Islamic Grammar School pupils to be joyful, fit, confident adults who can contribute their efforts and skills in the light of Quran and Hadith to the modern world and become active, accountable citizens.

It is our aim to introduce an innovative, meaningful and enjoyable school programme. The FBI programme has been designed for the pupils during their guidance lessons. This FBI programme focuses on pupils’ personal development and covers aspects such as Islamic Education, Careers Education, Personal, Social & Health Education and Financial Wellbeing.

Assessment and Progress Monitoring

Assessment at OIGS is purposeful and continuous. Pupils’ progress is tracked through regular formative and summative assessments, with personalised feedback and support provided throughout their academic journey.

Parents receive regular updates and are closely involved in target-setting and review processes.

Key Stage 3

Courses available for KS3

Subjects Exam Information Subjects Exam Information
English Non-examination course at key stage 3 Spanish Non-examination course at key stage 3
Mathematics Non-examination course at key stage 3 Computer Science Non-examination course at key stage 3
Science Non-examination course at key stage 3 Physical Education Non-examination course at key stage 3
History Non-examination course at key stage 3 PSHE Non-examination course at key stage 3
Geography Non-examination course at key stage 3 Art Non-examination course at key stage 3
Arabic Non-examination course at key stage 3 Religious Studies Non-examination course at key stage 3

In Year 7 pupils have 2 guidance lessons per week, in which they follow The FBI programme of study. In Years 8 and 9 they have 1 guidance lesson per week.

Key Stage 4

Our Key Stage 4 consists of a two-year study programme where pupils sit GCSE’s in Year 11. Pupils will be offered to make their GCSE choices in Year 9. Pupils will follow a combination of subjects during two-year study programme (Year 10 – Year 11) which will enable them to achieve the English Baccalaureate. Physical Education (core) and The FBI programme are also compulsory but are not examined courses.

GCSE Subjects

English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry & Physics) or Combined Science and Religious Studies are all studied by all pupils as part of the core curriculum and are all examined courses.

Subject Course Title Exam Board Course Start Course Finish
English GCSE English Language AQA Year 9 Year 11
GCSE English Literature AQA Year 9 Year 11
Maths GCSE Mathematics Edexcel Year 9 Year 11
Science (Pupils study one of the science courses) GCSE Science Combined AQA Year 9 Year 11
GCSE Science (separate sciences) Biology, Chemistry & Physics AQA Year 9 Year 11
Religious Studies GCSE Religious Studies AQA Year 9 Year 11
Pupils are then able to choose from the optional GCSE subjects including as below:
Humanities (Pupils study one of the humanities courses) GCSE History Edexcel Year 10 Year 11
GCSE Geography Edexcel Year 10 Year 11
Languages (Pupils study one of the languages courses) GCSE Arabic Edexcel Year 10 Year 11
GCSE Spanish AQA Year 10 Year 11
Art & Design GCSE Art & Design AQA Year 10 Year 11
Business Studies GCSE Business Studies Edexcel Year 10 Year 11
Computer Science GCSE Computer Science OCR Year 10 Year 11

When making option choices in Year 9, pupils are offered personalised recommendations including the following:

  • Triple Sciences or Combined Science
  • One compulsory language
  • Recommendation to study either Geography or History to complete the Ebacc suite of subjects
  • It is aim on average 75-80% of the cohort each year would be expected to follow an Ebacc suite of subjects

Extra-Curricular Activities and the Promotion of Fundamental British Values

At Openshaw Islamic Grammar School (OIGS), we are fully committed to the active promotion of the Fundamental British Values (FBVs) of:

  • Democracy
  • The Rule of Law
  • Individual Liberty
  • Mutual Respect
  • Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs

These core values are embedded across the curriculum and reinforced through a rich programme of extra-curricular activities that support pupils’ Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development. We believe values-based learning extends far beyond the classroom and our enrichment programme plays a vital role in developing pupils into knowledgeable, active and accountable citizens.

Curriculum-Integrated Enrichment

As part of our PSHE and personal development curriculum, all pupils will participate in:

  • Visits to places of worship, including: churches, mosques, synagogues and temples to encourage religious literacy, understanding and tolerance of diverse beliefs and traditions
  • Assemblies and workshops exploring themes such as diversity, justice, equality, democracy and community cohesion, often involving guest speakers from various professions and cultural backgrounds

These experiences are designed to:

  • Foster respect for different cultures and beliefs
  • Encourage open dialogue and reflection on identity and values
  • Promote harmony within the wider community
  • Expose pupils to positive role models from all social strategy

Activity-Based Enrichment Days

To further enhance their learning and development, all pupils take part in three themed enrichment days per academic year. These days provide opportunities to engage in:

  • Creative arts
  • Problem-solving challenges
  • Team-building exercises
  • Public speaking and debates
  • Community and social action projects

Each enrichment day is designed to reinforce the application of Fundamental British Values in real-life contexts while developing pupils’ confidence, collaboration and critical thinking skills.

Student Voice and the School Council

The School Council is a key; means through which pupils experience democracy in action. This pupil-led body is:

  • Supported and overseen by senior leaders
  • Elected through a formal nomination and voting process
  • Empowered to represent pupil views on key issues affecting school life

The council meets every fortnight, with published agendas and minutes and is encouraged to propose initiatives, support decision-making and organise pupil-led events.

Charity Work and Community Engagement

Pupils are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and social responsibility throughout the year. Activities include:

  • Annually Charity Afternoon with pupil-led fundraising campaigns
  • Support for national and international relief aid organisations
  • Local community initiatives and service projects
  • Awareness events focusing on humanitarian causes

These experiences are carefully integrated with the wider SMSC and FBI (Fundamental British-Islamic) curriculum, helping pupils develop compassion, global awareness and an ethical mindset rooted in Islamic Values.

Careers Education and Guidance

At OIGS, we recognise that effective careers education and guidance is essential in helping pupils navigate their future with confidence and purpose.

Careers Guidance Implementation

Careers education is delivered through:

  • Dedicated assemblies and Careers Days
  • Guidance lessons within the PSHE curriculum
  • Talks and workshops from professionals across a broad range of sectors
  • Targeted careers interviews and one-to-one guidance for pupils in Key Stage 4
  • Work-related learning opportunities, including employer visits and workplace encounters

Our aim is to:

  • Help pupils identify their strengths, interests and ambitions
  • Equip them with the information and skills needed to make informed decisions
  • Support their transition to further education, apprenticeships or training
  • Prepare them for the demands of the 21st-century job market

Learning Beyond the Classroom

We encourage pupils to extend their learning beyond the classroom through:

  • Educational visits and fieldwork
  • Guest lectures and cultural excursions
  • Volunteering and social action projects
  • Interfaith and intercultural exchange programmes

These opportunities are integral to pupils’ personal development, promoting social awareness, teamwork and active citizenship.

Policy Links

This programme links closely with the following school policies:

  • PSHE and Personal Development Policy
  • Assessment Policy
  • Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Policy
  • CEIAG Policy

Senior School

Beyond the Classroom

Sport

Our sports programme is broad and inclusive, giving every pupil the chance to represent OIGS, develop skills and build lifelong healthy habits. From lunchtime games and weekly clubs to national competitions, every child is supported and celebrated.

Trips

Educational visits are a cherished element of life at OIGS. Whether close to home or across the globe, our trips enhance learning and broaden horizons across many subjects. Just as significantly, they enable pupils to discover more about themselves and the world they live in.

Students’ Voice Club

The Students’ Voice Club is a vibrant and empowering group where pupils come together to share ideas, express their perspectives, and help shape life at school. The club gives students a platform to discuss important issues, propose positive changes, and work collaboratively with staff and peers.

Tarbiyah Club

A Tarbiyah Club is a student-centered group focused on character building, spiritual growth and Islamic manners (akhlaq). It includes Quran study, Hadith discussions, group reflections, Islamic talks, leadership training, community service and moral development activities. The Tarbiyah Club nurtures young leaders and builds a strong sense of unity, cooperation and mutual support among students.

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