Our Curriculum at Hartford Church of England High School
At Hartford Church of England High School, our mission is to provide an outstanding, inclusive, and ambitious education for all. We believe every child should be known, valued, and supported to thrive both within and beyond the classroom. Our curriculum is designed to embrace and promote each student’s unique talents, enabling them to grow into confident young people who will make a substantial contribution to the world.
Rooted in our Christian ethos and guided by our HART values – Happy, Achieving, Ready and Together – our curriculum reflects the love (Caritas) and truth (Veritas) that have shaped Hartford since its founding. These values are the heart of our learning community, helping students to flourish academically, spiritually, and personally.
We provide a broad and ambitious education that equips students for higher education, the world of work, and life beyond school. Core subjects – English, Mathematics, Religious Studies, and Science – form the foundation, developing essential knowledge, critical thinking, and moral understanding. Alongside these, a diverse range of subjects in the arts, humanities, technology, physical education and computing gives students the chance to discover and develop their gifts and passions.
Learning is enriched through extracurricular activities, sport, leadership opportunities, and community service. In all areas, our students are encouraged to live out our values, grow in character, and find joy in learning.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, students follow a broad and challenging curriculum which is designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. We believe this stage should be an exciting journey of discovery, where students are encouraged to explore a wide range of subjects, build new skills, and develop confidence in themselves as learners.
The curriculum is carefully sequenced to build on the foundations of primary school, ensuring smooth transition and progression. It balances breadth and depth, giving students both the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
In addition, our PSHCE curriculum, rooted in our Christian ethos, equips students with the knowledge and values to make informed choices, build healthy relationships, and contribute positively to society. Through this, and by living out our HART values, students develop resilience, empathy, and integrity.
Key Stage 3 lays the essential groundwork for Key Stage 4, while also helping students to recognise their own talents and passions so that, when the time comes, they can make confident and informed subject choices for their next stage of learning.
Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4, students build on their KS3 learning and begin to personalise their educational journey. All students study the core subjects – English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Religious Studies, and Science (combined or separate sciences) – ensuring a strong foundation in essential academic disciplines.
Alongside these, students select optional subjects that reflect their individual interests, strengths, and aspirations. This allows them to shape their curriculum, explore areas of passion, and prepare for life beyond school. Our options include both GCSE and vocational pathways, giving every student the opportunity to experience and succeed in a variety of subjects.
Our Key Stage 4 curriculum is supported by strong guidance and pastoral care. Students receive personalised support in choosing their subjects, ensuring their choices are ambitious and align with their long-term goals. Careers education and leadership opportunities are integrated throughout, helping students to see the link between their studies and future aspirations.
Beyond the classroom, Key Stage 4 students are encouraged to take on greater responsibility and leadership roles within school and the community. Opportunities such as volunteering, mentoring younger students, or representing the school in sports, arts, and in other roles enable them to grow as responsible individuals who embody our HART values.
By the end of Key Stage 4, our students leave Hartford Church of England High School with a rich set of qualifications, the character to thrive, and the confidence to take their next steps in their chosen paths.