Curriculum

Our curriculum will reflect our academy values: scholarship – character – community, and drive us in our mission to unlock a thirst for learning for all to successfully access an ever-changing world.

The overarching aims of our curriculum will underpin the following outcomes:

As a High Performance Learning School we use the Advanced Cognitive Performance characteristics (ACPs) to unlock the core knowledge within each unique subject.  Linked to our value of scholarship, the ACPs are used in lessons to ensure that students know how to think about what they are learning and are able to use their disciplinary knowledge and think like scientists, mathematicians and historians.  If a student is making some predictions during a science experiment they will be using the ACP – connection finding to generate some thoughts on what might happen next.  If a student is debating in English, they will use the ACP – intellectual confidence to ensure they are able to rationalise their argument with knowledge and experience.  The Values, Attitudes, Attributes are the foundations to the quality of education, which our curriculum is built upon.  Our academy values of character and community underpin these foundations and are central to our beliefs and ethos.  The VAAs can be seen being discussed in and outside of lessons where students show how they behave as a HWGA student and member if our wider community.  A student who asks questions, takes interest in life beyond the classroom and maybe gets involved in student council will be showing the VAA – Confident and Enquiring.  A student that overcomes obstacles and set backs is showing perseverance.

High Performance Learning (HPL)

Our core aim is excellence for all which is underpinned by our vision, mission and values. We are a High Performance Learning World Class school which means that we believe in the HPL philosophy and framework. This means that we believe that all the students can be high performers, and we teach with these expectations in mind. We use HPL to develop our core values of scholarship, character and community which focuses on the Advanced Cognitive Performance skills and the Values, Attitudes and Attributes of the HPL framework. Your child will be taught these characteristics in the curriculum and through our pastoral support. The HPL framework is a set of characteristics that are well researched to prepare students for now and the future world of work.

If you have further questions, or would like more information about our curriculum, please contact our Deputy Headteacher Ms S Yates by email at syates@hwga.org.uk

We implement our curriculum using a consistent learning framework which starts with students retrieving knowledge previously taught. Your child will follow a framework of modelled practice where the teacher explicitly models learning during the ‘I Do’, time for collaboration and questioning in the ‘We do’, then handed over to students during the ‘You do’ phase to apply their thinking. To maximise learning and engagement, the following climate for learning framework outlines the attitude to learning that will support great progress and excellent outcomes.

In this section you will find a guide to each year of your child’s time with us at King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy, and what you can expect to see them study in each term, in each subject.

The Curriculum Leaders Team at King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy (KEVI HWGA) is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience. Each leader brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for fostering academic excellence. They meticulously plan and map out the curriculum to ensure that students not only acquire essential knowledge but also develop critical thinking skills and a love for learning. The team is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential. Their collaborative efforts are integral to the academy’s mission of nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Mrs A Fox – Head of Art and Textiles

I am the Head of Art and Textiles in this amazing school full of studious and ambitious young students. My goal is to ensure students receive the most exciting and creative education within both Art and Textiles. To really feel excited about their accomplishments with my department.

My team are conscientious and creative, and we are all committed to ensure the most inspired and imaginative artwork is formed by our dedicated and talented students. I am passionate about students working to the best of their abilities and feeling confident within a wide range of media and techniques, such as painting, felting, embroidery and printmaking.

It is a joy to see the potential within all students within my subjects.

Mr K Ali – Head of Computing

Since 2005, I have dedicated myself to teaching and have accumulated extensive experience in KS4 and KS5 education. I have held roles as Head of Department and taken on whole-school responsibilities in various schools. Currently, I am the Director of IT, Co-Head of 6th Form, and HWGA’s BTEC Quality Nominee.

I support the 6th Form Team with KS5 progress and intervention. We encourage students to actively engage in their learning, work diligently, participate in extracurricular activities, and manage their time effectively.

I am deeply committed to ensuring that each student reaches their full academic potential and is well-prepared for their future pathways. Drawing from my extensive teaching experience, particularly in Key Stage 5, I am passionate about supporting our 6th Form students to achieve their goals and succeed in their future endeavours. Our goal is not only academic success but also the holistic development of each student, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel beyond their time with us.

Miss I Runacres – Head of Design and Technology

I started my journey here back as an ECT in September 2022 and have been Head of Design and Technology since March 2025. My background is Textiles, and I strive to inject creativity, excitement and a love of design into all aspects of the Design and Technology curriculum.

I get to work alongside a creative team, in which we share ideas and inspire each other, as well as the girls here at HWGA. We hope to equip all students with a creative mindset to help them problem solve and think outside the box across all their subjects, including those within the wider school.

We love seeing our girls grow in confidence and strengthen their design abilities. It’s been a pleasure to see the creative outcomes and enthusiasm develop over the past few years across DT, Food Technology and Textiles. We aim to continue to develop this positivity moving forwards, celebrating all our girls successes.

Ms A Adeyemo – Director of English

I joined the school in September 2023, and have been Director of English in April 2024. Having been educated and previously taught within the foundation, I have a deep understanding and passion for our school’s ethos and values.

I am particularly passionate about literature and theatre, and I strive to instil this enthusiasm in my students. My literary interests span gothic literature, Shakespeare, and modern and contemporary literature and culture. My curriculum goals focus on developing students’ academic writing skills, increasing their confidence and oracy, and nurturing success at both GCSE and A Level.

What I enjoy most about the school is the supportive and vibrant community. The dedication of both staff and students to continuous improvement and excellence makes it a truly inspiring place to work. In my role, I relish the opportunity to guide and mentor students, helping them to discover their own love for literature and achieve their full potential.

Mrs H Newman – Head of French

As the Head of French at HWGA, my main role is to create an engaging, well-rounded French curriculum to ensure all students who study French, irrespective of their ability, can reach their full potential. I feel privileged to work in a school where there are so many online resources available to both staff and students which are interactive and give students immediate feedback which helps them to make further progress. My main goal this year is to further embrace the diverse range of cultures in our school environment and to use these to strengthen student interest in this subject.

Mr S Bowler – Head of Geography

Miss A Hussain – Head of History

As Head of the History Department, I am passionate about embedding a deep, questioning engagement with the past. Our enquiry-based curriculum inspires students to view history as a vital tool for understanding today’s world.

We celebrate Britain’s rich history while embracing global diversity, empowering students to engage in debates and make evidence-based judgments. Topics like Black Tudors, the Empire in World War I, migration, LGBTQ+, and equality movements reflect a breadth of perspectives, promoting inclusivity and respect for differences.

History at KEVI HWGA equips students with critical analytical skills, preparing them to succeed and become thoughtful, inclusive, and resilient members of society.

Mr H Singh BSc – Director of Mathematics

I am so proud and delighted to have joined KEVI HWGA in September 2025 as the newly appointed Director of Mathematics. I have a passion for every aspect of the subject and a firm belief in the power of mastery to unlock true understanding. My vision is for every student to experience mathematical excellence, developing not only strong skills but also confidence, curiosity and a love of learning that lasts well beyond the classroom. I will work closely with colleagues, families and the wider school community to ensure all students are challenged, supported and inspired to achieve their full potential in mathematics. I bring with me a deep commitment to raising aspirations and ensuring that every student, regardless of background, can see the beauty, purpose and possibilities that mathematics offers.

Mrs S Green – Head of Performing Arts

I am the Head of Performing Arts at HWGA. My role is to teach Drama and help with all work in the performing arts faculty. I am passionate about giving students the chance to build their confidence in all areas not just in performing in Drama. As a faculty we love to create chances for the girls to showcase their incredible talents to each other and friends and families.

My curriculum goals are to continue to give the girls a wide range of skills to be able to use in all subjects, with confidence being key to everything I do in Drama . I also want my curriculum to be engaging and fun, spanning a wide range of styles, genres and practitioners to give the students as much knowledge on the subject as possible.

Mrs P Shoker – Head of PE

I started at KEVI HWGA back in 2008 as a trainee PE teacher and have been Head of PE since 2010. Sport has always been a huge part of my life—I’ve played football in the Women’s Premier League and come from a very active family. I honestly believe daily exercise is as important as brushing your teeth, and I want every student to leave school knowing how to look after their health and enjoy being active.

In PE, we offer loads of different activities and focus on building skills, teamwork, and confidence. We want students to feel ready to join a club, play with friends, or just stay active in their own way. We also teach the basics of a healthy lifestyle—like moving for 60 minutes a day, drinking enough water, getting good sleep, and eating well—so everyone can set and reach their own fitness goals and keep these habits for life.

Ms M Robin – Head of PSHE

It has been an absolute pleasure being a member of the KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy team, for the past 25 years!!

As the Head of PSHE, I ensure that all students establish and develop their own values, attitudes and virtues, shaping their individual Character.

My role affords the opportunity to ensure that we have a structured and robust curriculum, which enables students to explore an array of different topics, engaging in theory and practical learning opportunities.

Creating rich experiences, ensures that students are able to develop their knowledge and understanding and can demonstrate the application of their skills with great confidence.

All of these attributes are paramount for students, as they prepare to embark into leading their independent lives and in accessing a wealth of opportunities to their full potential, in an ever-changing world.

Mrs A Hussain – Head of Religious Studies

As the Head of Religious Studies at KEVI HWGA, I am deeply passionate about exploring the rich diversity of religious traditions and their profound impact on individuals and societies. My role involves leading a dynamic and inclusive curriculum that encourages students to engage thoughtfully with religious and ethical questions.

My curriculum goals consist of encouraging students to think critically and reflectively about religious beliefs and practices. Incorporating insights from history, philosophy, and social sciences to provide a holistic understanding of religion. Inspiring students to become informed, compassionate, and thoughtful individuals who can navigate and contribute to our diverse world.

Miss T Akhtar – Director of Science

I have been the Director of Science at HWGA since 2022, bringing with me extensive experience from a variety of school settings. Over my long teaching career, I have held numerous roles, each contributing to my commitment to delivering high-quality science education. At HWGA, my primary responsibility is to ensure that science teaching is of the highest standard, fostering a stimulating and supportive environment where students can thrive academically and develop a lifelong appreciation for science.

Science has always been my passion, with a particular love for both physics and biology. I am captivated by how physics explains the laws governing the universe and how biology uncovers the intricate mechanisms of life. From exploring forces and energy to understanding the complexities of ecosystems and the human body, I strive to share my enthusiasm for these subjects with students, making learning both engaging and meaningful.

In my role, I am dedicated to supporting both staff and students, ensuring that our curriculum not only prepares students for exams but also equips them with practical skills and scientific literacy to succeed in their future endeavours. Through hands-on experiments, innovative teaching strategies, and a focus on critical thinking, our department works tirelessly to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and informed global citizens.

I am proud to be part of a team that values the curiosity and potential of every student, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact at HWGA.

Miss S Solanki – Head of Social Sciences

I am the Head of Health and Social Science and have been a dedicated member of the academy since 2008, when I joined as a Social Science teacher. Throughout my career here, I have developed a wealth of experience and expertise, particularly in KS5 teaching, where I take pride in supporting students to achieve academic success and develop the skills necessary for their future pathways. Alongside my teaching, I have held leadership responsibilities including leading the sixth form team and taking the lead in the subject of Law, both of which have strengthened my capacity to guide students through critical stages of their educational journey.

My overarching goal is to nurture confident, resilient young people who are not only prepared for the demands of the world of work but who also aspire to become the future leaders within our society. I believe strongly in setting high expectations, fostering ambition, and ensuring every student feels equipped to fulfil their potential.

I am proud to be part of a committed and forward-thinking team that values the curiosity, individuality, and potential of every student. As Head of Health and Social Science, I remain dedicated to building on the academy’s vision and continuing to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the young people at HWGA.

Dr A Flores – Head of Spanish

I have been the Head of Spanish at HWGA since April 2023. From the moment I first stepped into the school and met the students, I knew this was the right place for me. My role encompasses a variety of tasks, from creating an exciting and inclusive curriculum that enables students to master the subject, to supporting all of them in achieving their grades.

I love teaching languages because it’s like sharing a part of my culture. I firmly believe that learning a language is more than just learning words and grammar; it is also about understanding the world, appreciating other cultures—something we encourage at HWGA—and becoming more open-minded. As a teacher, I have the privilege of seeing students grow, mature, and develop a passion for the subject.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Art is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 hours per week.

Key Stage 5

Art is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 4

Business Studies is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

Business Studies is taught at Key Stage 5.

Classics is taught at Key Stage 3, in years 7 and 8, it forms one of the five English Lessons delivered each week.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Computer Science and BTEC ICT are optional subjects in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

ICT BTEC Extended Certificate is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 5

Criminology is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Design and Technology, including Textiles are taught on a 13 week cycle in Key Stage 3.

Key Stage 4

Textiles, Design Technology, Engineering (CNAT), and Food Preparation and Nutrition are optional subjects in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Drama is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

Economics is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 5

English Literature is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Geography is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

Geography is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 4

Health and Social Care is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

Health and Social Care is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

History is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 5

History is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 5

Law is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 5

Maths, L2 Maths, and L3 Core Maths are taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Modern Foreign Languages is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Music is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

BTEC Sport is an optional subject in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 5

PSHE is delivered as part of the enrichment programme at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 5

Psychology is taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 5

Religious Studies are taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 5

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, BTEC Applied Science Extended Certificate, and BTEC Science Extended Certificate are taught at Key Stage 5.

Key Stage 3

Design and Technology, including Textiles are taught on a 13 week cycle in Key Stage 3.

Key Stage 4

Textiles, Design Technology, Engineering (CNAT), and Food Preparation and Nutrition are optional subjects in Key Stage 4, optional subjects are taught for 3 lessons per week.