Key Stage 3

“A child that reads is an adult that thinks!”

In DSGD we want girls to explore and love books and language. Girls will learn to open their minds and step into the world of imagination and literature. All girls will study a rich and exiting range of fiction and nonfiction text. Finding a passion for reading is a whole school aim and is continued and encouraged as girls move through secondary.

High levels of English, both in reading and writing is the core to success in all areas of the curriculum.

What will I learn?

In Key stage 3 girls will study a range of texts and will continue to develop all forms of writing. Girls will have great fun understanding the written word through story writing, posters, presentations, comics, drama and reports. The development of vocabulary is key in Key Stage 3 and girls will been encouraged to be reading for pleasure as well as for studies. Girls will be building on the foundations of the Primary years developing the skills needed for IGCSE.

In KS4 English Language is a compulsory IGCSE. Girls will be expected to analyze, compare and contrast styles of text and genre. Girls will develop their writing skills to be confident and imaginative writers.

English Literature is an optional IGCSE and AS level. For both the AS and IGCSE girls will need a high level of English to access these courses. With the English Team and the Careers officer, girls will receive individual guidance to participate in this subject.

English for my future.

English is relevant for every aspect of the girl’s future, both in university and in careers. The skills learnt from both English Language and Literature allow the girls to be confident both verbally and with the relevant writing skills. The critical skill learnt studying English can be translated to all aspects of life.  Careers relating to English could be; Journalism, Education, Law, Politics, Marketing, Translating and the Diplomatic service.

“Mathematics gives us hope that for every problem, there is a solution!”

Mathematics is used in every aspect of daily life. From telling the time, to scientific analysis, to working out their bill in the coffee shop! In DSGD we want Mathematics to be relevant and fun. All girls can achieve and can be mathematicians. It is ensuring confidence in the girls that allows us to achieve this. Maths needs to be relevant to the real world and many classes are practical and active to make the subject come to life.

What will I learn?

Maths is taught as a cyclical process in DSGD where every year the same topics are taught, consolidated and extended. This allows girls to be supported and stretched to reach their full potential. In all year groups in KS3, the following topics are covered:

• Numbers (e.g. Sets, Ratio, Percentages, Fractions, Decimals, Powers, Surds)
• Algebra (e.g. Solving Equations, Algebraic Manipulation, Indices, Inequalities, Quadratics,Simultaneous Equations, Linear and Quadratic Graphs, Functions, Calculus)
• Geometry (e.g. Area, Volume, Pythagoras, Trigonometry, Transformations, Vectors, Circles,Polygons)
• Statistics (e.g. Probability, Averages, Cumulative Frequency, Histograms)

In IGCSE, Mathematics is a compulsory subject. Girls have the option to take higher Maths and this will be determined in accordance to their previous results. AS and Alevel Mathematics will be available, and girls will be supported in this choice regarding university choices and career prospects. Higher Maths can include statistics, Pure Maths and mechanics.

Mathematics for my future 

The skill learnt through Mathematics such as analysis, logic and problem solving can be applied to many future careers. For certain professions, Maths is a compulsory element such as : Medicine, Engineering, Computer programming, Architecture, Finance and Accounting.

“Education is the best investment to your future “

The Arabic Subjects form an important part of the DSGD overall curriculum. It is fundamental that the girls have a high level of Arabic both written and spoken, A good understanding of Qatari History and strong knowledge and guidance of Islamic. Values are at the heart of every Durham Girl, and the Arabic, language, culture and values forms a fundamental part of the girl’s development and learning.

What will I learn?

In KS3, the girls will continue with all 3 mandatory subjects. They will be following the Ministry of Education Qatar Curriculum. All 3 subjects will be taught by the Arabic team and girls will take part in the Ministry examinations and assessments at the end of each year. In KS4, Girls will all take Arabic IGCSE. ( All Arabic passport holders will take Arabic first language and International Students will take Arabic as a Second Language) Islamic will be taught as a MOE subject, but there is also the option to take IGCSE Islamic as an additional subject. In KS5 all girls will take AS Arabic and continue with their Islamic studies.

Arabic for my future.

The mandatory subjects form who the girls are now and how they will develop for their future. For cultural, religious, and personal grounding, these subjects are fundamental. For future options and careers, these subjects will give the girls the foundations to build upon.

“The important thing is to never stop questioning “ Einstien.

In DSGD we celebrate the importance and relevance of science in the world around us and beyond! Asking questions allows our girls to develop their enquiring minds, form a hypothesis and test a theory Science is the subject that shows we never stop learning!

What will I learn?

In KS3 the girls receive classes of general science sudying topics covering the three subjects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Topics include; Space, Materials, The Human Body, The living world, Changes, Elements. All topics have practical elements and girls are taught scientific language and laboratory skills. As the girls move into IGCSE’s they have the option of taking the Dual Award or a Triple award. The Dual awards is worth 2 IGCSEs and combines the 3 science subjects. For the Triple Science the girls will study Biology, Physics and Chemistry as separate subjects and will receive 3 separate IGCSEs. For AS and A level, girls will be supported and guided to ensure that they are fulfilling the correct requirements for university courses. Girls for AS and A level can choose from Biology, Physics and Chemistry as separate subjects.

Science for my future

Scientific investigation is used in many fields and professions. Medicine, Research, Pure Science, Astronomy, Engineering, Architecture, ICT, Education,  Agriculture are just some professions needing science. 

“History doesn’t change the past, but it is likely to change the future.”

At Durham School for girls, we aim for girls to be investigators of the past and guardians for the future. Through the British Curriculum, there will be a focus on British History, but this will be compared to the world at that time and the impact locally in Qatar. Qatari History is also taught as a compulsory subject in the Arabic curriculum. History transforms us to other times and places and develops in the girls a sense of respect and understanding of those who lived in other times before us.  

What will I learn?

In KS3 the girls receive a broad and chronological curriculum starting from the Normans and Saxons through to the modern day. Girls will learn how to analyze historical evidence, understand the past and develop opinion based on fact. Making the past real through newspapers, artifacts, visits and reports brings history to life and allows girls to understand how the world has changed. Girls can continue History as an IGCSE and AS option in KS4 and KS5.  

History in my future.

The skills developed in History are transferable to many other subjects and careers. Being able to write effectively, understand and learn chronological dates and use evidence based critical thinking are all valuable tools for careers such as; Politics, Historian, Archeologist, Lawyer, Journalist, Writer.

“Without Geography, you are nowhere!”

Qatar is such a rich geographical study, all our girls are natural geographers! Our aim is to give the girls the experiences and understanding of the complexities of the world around us. In DSGD we aim for the girls to appreciate the diversity of our planet and those who live in it. Understanding culture, climate, impact, change and development is the future.

What will I learn?

In KS3 girls begin to understand and learn the features and characteristics of both Human and Physical Geography. Topics such as Ecosystems, Rocks, Coasts, Climate, Industry, Settlement, Population, are all covered. Girls are taught to use geographical understanding to form opinion and judgements based on fact. Statistics and ICT are incorporated in lessons as the girls begin to understand and learn about their local environment and the world around us.  Girls can continue Geography as an IGCSE and AS option in KS4 and KS5. 

Geography in my future.

Like History, the skills learnt in Geography can be transferred to many subjects and careers. Understanding diversity, culture and impact plays a key feature in the future and knowledge of this is a necesity in many university subjects. Careers can include Surveying, Research, Analysis, Politics, Environmental Subjects, Law, Human rights and International relationships.

“Art is something that makes you breathe a different kind of happiness.”

In DSGD we believe every girl is an artist and it is our job to unlock the imagination and creativity of each child. This may be through painting, sculpture, fashion or graphic design. All girls have the opportunity to learn skills and self-expression through different medias and stimuli. Girls are taught to take a risk and have confidence in themselves and their creative thought. Art is about expression and having the support and skillset to become the artist within you.

What will I learn?

Art and design needs to be taught and the skills and techniques form the basis and foundation in the KS3 Curriculum. In KS3 girls will have the opportunity to experience and learn the 3 Art subjects within the school. Art – Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Colour and Art History. Fashion- Basic design and fashion skills, Sewing and patterns. Food – Basic Cooking skills, Nutrition and Diet.

From this foundation girls can then move into KS4 and 5 to choose Art and Design (Fashion Component or fine Art) and/or Food and Nutrition as separate IGCSE and AS options.

 Art and Design / Fashion/ Food and Nutrition in my future.

The skill of creative expression is priceless. The fundamental skills learnt in fashion and food are practical life skills that will be used daily. Careers relating to these subjects include Fashion Design, Architect, Artist, Graphic Designer, Interior Designer, Illustrator, Nutritionist, Dietitian.

“If Music is the food of life, play on!”

Music is all around us and in DSGD we appreciate and celebrate Music in all forms from the National Anthem to singing in assembly. Music really inspires confidence and allows the girls another outlet for creative expression. Not everyone will be a concert pianist, but all girls will be given the skills and opportunities to understand and appreciate Music from the past and different cultures. 

What will I learn?

In KS3 the girls will have a mixture of practical and theory lessons. They will explore and understand different styles of music and gain an appreciation of different musical genre. They will have the opportunity to compose and perform using a variety of instruments, learn pitch and rhythm and notation. Singing forms part of the curriculum and the music department links with the Drama Department regarding musical production. In KS 4 and 5 Music can be an IGCSE and AS option, however, girls studying at this level will need to be competent in an instrument of choice.

Music in my future

Music impacts our everyday life and the girls developing an appreciation and understanding is a life skill. Music for pleasure or as a career will be available for the girls.  

“Computer Science is the operating system for all innovation “

With technology moving at such a speed, innovative and current practice is our aim in DSGD. Girls will have the opportunity to learn, develop and respect the digital world of the 21^st Century. Along side the practical lessons of programming and coding, students will also use the facilities of our Virtual reality suit and continually learn online safety and responsibility. Computer Science allows girls to be ready and active for the future.

What will I learn?

In KS 3, Girls will gain experience in computer software and operating systems. Lessons will be practical and programming and coding through Raspberry Pi for Python are used and taught. Online safety and responsibility form part of the curriculum in KS3. As girls move into KS4 and 5, Computer Science and ICT are  offered as an IGCSE and AS levels. The curriculum has more depth in complexity around coding and programming and the use of algorithms.

Computer Science/ ICT for my future.

The world is now run through technology and python as a language is now used in almost every profession and field of learning, from Medicine to Engineering. With a technology background, the girls will be able to access many professions and career choices.  

“All the worlds a stage and men and women are merely players”

  Drama in DSGD builds confidence and develops positive self esteem in our girls. All girls can play a part in drama, from performer to critic, set designer to makeup artist. Drama allows girls to develop a range of communicative and practical skills to express their creativity. Through drama, the girls will be able to develop literacy skills, but also gain a better understanding of emotion, self and others. Drama overlaps with so many other subjects and gives the girls a greater insight to history, politics, emotions and the world around them. We will unlock the Drama Queen within you.

What will I learn?

In KS3 the girls will have the opportunity for individual, small group and large performance work. They will study a range of scripts and plays and learn theatrical skills, theory and characterization. They will compare film and theater and develop a better understanding of the functions and roles in live performance verses filmed works. Overlapping with Music, Art and Design, Fashion and ICT, the girls will be able to learn from practical workshops on set design, makeup and costumes. For KS4 and 5, Drama is offered at IGCSE and AS level. Girls will follow the Theatre Arts programme and develop understanding of set texts, performance and characterization in theatre.

Drama in my future.

Not only is Drama a subject, but the skills learnt are transferable to many careers and professions. Work in Journalism, Theater, Film and Television are logical career paths. The confidence in public speaking and performance can be used as a life skill and is needed in many professions such as: Teaching, Law, International Relations, Medicine, Media and Politics.

“With Languages, you are at home anywhere”

Studying an additional language is a key to unlocking a world of differences. In DSGD the additional language is often the third language spoken by our girls. Having this third language allows girls to understand linguistic differences, understand language origins and cultures. It is offering a rich element to an already broad curriculum. For Modern language we focus on Spanish and French.

What will I learn?

In KS3 the girls will have fun with learning Spanish. Over KS3 the girls will build vocabulary in familiar settings – School, Home, Shopping etc. They will work with games, songs, and practical exercises to understand the basic grammar of the language and apply it in written and conversational settings. In KS4 and KS5, Girls will have the option to take IGCSE and AS Spanish and French.

Languages in my future.

With most companies now being International, the ability to speak languages is an amazing tool to have. For some girls there will be opportunities to continue to develop languages as a profession through, Interpreting, Diplomatic Service, Education. However, the ability to speak a language will be an advantage to any profession. 

Physical Education.  

“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, it has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.” Nelson Mandela 

A healthy body means a healthy mind and having regular exercise has proven to be vital in terms of ones physical and mental wellbeing. Playing sports allows you to express yourself in a different way, it builds friendships, helps with communication skills, develops teamwork, and shows us how through cooperation we can achieve great things.  PE is an essential part of the curriculum and at DSGD we celebrate that by weekly sessions for all girls.

What will I learn?

In Secondary, girls are given opportunities to develop their fitness, coordination, and skill range through a range of activities from swimming to table tennis, basketball to netball, football to rounders and everything in-between.  

Inter House competitions in various sports are a highlight for our girls as will be the opportunity for us to have school teams (post Covid restrictions) that can have matches against other local schools and allow the girls to further experience the fun and challenges that a competitive environment can provide.  

PE in my future.

Girls are encouraged to take up some form of exercise outside school as it has been shown that there is a positive link between exercise and improved academic performance and it improves our overall health too, so it is a win-win situation. Find a physical activity they enjoy and do it regularly and they will see a difference. Fitness and health are a life skill for every age of life.

PSHE -Personal, Social and Health Education 

“The things that make me different are the things that make me me” Winnie the Pooh 

PSHE supports individual young people to make safe and informed choices. It can help tackle issues that surround growing up in the 21century in an ever-changing world. It explores who we are and how we function and what roles we play in everyday life. It allows us to share our thoughts, experiences and concerns and talk through them in a supportive, safe environment. It involves looking at current issues in the wider world and how using our education and knowledge we can find ways to both understand and change those things that make life a challenge.  

PSHE education prepares children for the real world. It teaches children how they should react in difficult or uncomfortable situations. It gives children scenarios to imagine themselves in that situation, so when the situation occurs, they will be able to handle it effectively. Skills such as debating, forming an argument, active listening, empathy, and cooperation are central to the subject and during the sessions girls will find out about themselves and others and what makes a strong, fair community where everyone shows respect and kindness. Our MARK values in action.