Derby Grammar School

Senior Curriculum

Our Senior School is divided into Lower School (Years 7, 8 and 9) and Upper School (Years 10 and 11). As pupils progress through Senior School they earn the ability to tailor their learning and choose which subjects will best support their future ambitions. 

Senior School

As a natural progression from Primary, pupils in Lower School are exposed to a broad curriculum and are introduced to new subject options. This allows them the freedom to explore new interests and passions which they will want to develop through Sixth Form and beyond. 

The subjects studied from Years 7 – 9 are wide-ranging, and include:

  • Art*
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Classical Civilisations*
  • Computing
  • Design Technology*
  • English
  • French*
  • Geography
  • German*
  • History
  • Latin*
  • Mathematics
  • Music*
  • PSHE and Citizenship
  • Physical Education and Games
  • Physics
  • Religious Studies
  • Spanish*

*subject forms part of the mini-options scheme for Year 9

GCSE

Pupils in Upper School benefit from greater independence but also responsibility when it comes to managing their studies. The curriculum for Year 10 and 11 pupils comprises of a mixture of core and optional subjects. The core subjects are compulsory and include English Language, English Literature, Mathematics together with Physics, Chemistry and Biology. 

Pupils then have the freedom to select three optional subjects from the list below:

  • Art and Design
  • Classical Civilisation
  • Computer Science
  • Design and Technology
  • French
  • Geography
  • German
  • History
  • Latin
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Religious Studies
  • Spanish

GCSEs are an important milestone in our pupils’ educational journey and choosing options is a process requiring thought and discussion.  Our talented and passionate teachers guide pupils and their parents through this process, beginning in Year 9.

Discover the answers at

Derby Grammar School

Derby Grammar School