GCSEs

The Biology Department at Clifton High School offers pupils the opportunity to learn about the diversity of life and the natural world in which we live; it provides pupils with the knowledge to address matters of personal well-being and worldwide concern. The study of biology is at the forefront of resolving critical issues such as environmental depletion, threats to human health and maintaining abundant and viable food supplies.

The Biology Department at Clifton High is dynamic and innovative and throughout the year groups our teaching staff ensure the subject is both captivating and challenging. We cover a broad range of topics including evolution, micro-organisms, plant biology and ecology as well as how humans function and our impact on the world. Pupils are given the opportunity to research, investigate and think critically while learning is undertaken through presentations, model-making, discussions and practical investigations including dissections. Following the Diamond Edge Model of education, boys and girls are taught biology in single-sex groups in Years 7 to 9. Pupils in Year 7 receive one lesson per week and those in Years 8 and 9 receive three lessons per fortnight.

GCSE, A level and beyond

At Clifton High we teach the three sciences separately and all students are required to take at least two sciences at GCSE. Reflecting the quality of teaching and the passion our teachers have for their subject, biology is a popular choice for both AS and A2 level examinations and our examination results are excellent. In 2015 95% of GCSE students achieved A to C grades and 100% of A level students achieved A to C grades. Universities continue to value the transferrable skills provided by the study of biology including the ability to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, solve problems and communicate effectively. We have particularly good links with the University of Bristol, the University of Sheffield and the University of the West of England (UWE). Clifton High biology students have gone on to study a range of subjects including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacology, genetics, microbiology, midwifery and zoology.

Staff

The Biology Department is staffed by two teachers supported by two science technicians. They have a real passion for their subject and their interests include genetics, evolution of behaviour and the transport of substances. At Clifton High teaching fascinates, challenges and inspires in equal measure. Our teachers aim to make biology accessible and fun for all, even those pupils who consider themselves to be non-scientists.

Facilities

• Three specialist laboratories
• Interactive whiteboards
• Science resources room with computers and a range of texts
• Pond and wildlife garden

Extra-curricular

• Science club
• Undergraduate Ambassador Scheme at Bristol University
• Science café
• CHS Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition
• Biology Challenge
• British Biology Olympiad
• Trips and visits including ecology fieldwork at Folly Farm, gene technology trip to At-Bristol, use of the electron microscopes at UWE
• Biology booster support sessions

Chemistry teaches pupils about the materials around us. Boys and girls learn to appreciate the importance of chemistry in their everyday lives while at the same time obtain the skills and knowledge to gain top GCSE and A level results. The innovative and lively chemistry team makes up a third of the Science Department, a hub for outstanding teaching and learning. Schemes of work are continuously reviewed and updated, incorporating a wide range of resources. Enquiry based projects, flipped learning, “wow” demonstrations, practical investigations, role plays and debates have all been carefully woven into lessons to ensure pupils of every age have an interesting, challenging and varied learning experience.

Following the Diamond Edge Model of education, boys and girls are taught chemistry in single-sex groups in Years 7 to 9. Pupils in Year 7 receive one lesson per week and those in Years 8 and 9 receive three lessons per fortnight. Lessons are well planned incorporating a variety of activities which will pique pupils’ curiosity about the world around them and equip them with excellent problem solving skills.

GCSE, A level and beyond

At Clifton High School we teach the three sciences separately and all students are required to take at least two sciences at GCSE. We consistently obtain a 100% pass rate at GCSE with typically over 50% of students gaining an A grade or above. This success is mirrored at A-Level with many pupils obtaining the coveted A* grade. We have excellent links with the University of Cardiff and the University of Bristol and our chemistry students have gone on to study at top universities across the UK including Oxford and Cambridge.

Considerable time has been spent by the department preparing for the new GCSE and A-Level courses which are now fully resourced. Students can be confident the department has a good understanding of both the new specification and assessment procedures. Particular attention has been dedicated to the provision of practical work. The laboratories have been stocked with enough new apparatus to ensure all new A-Level pupils can complete of the required practical activities individually. This, coupled with excellent teacher support, guarantees every pupil the best opportunity to obtain a top grade and the separately assessed, endorsement of their practical skills.

Staff

The Chemistry Department is staffed by two fully qualified teachers and two science technicians. All staff have a great enthusiasm for teaching and a fascination for their subject.

Facilities

• Two well-equipped laboratories, both with fume cupboards
• Newly refurbished STEM resources room – used for food-based lessons such as those based around oils and emulsions. The room is also equipped with computers, a range of texts and new, cutting-edge technologies to facilitate learning.

Extra-curricular

• STEM Club
• Each year four pupils are entered into the Salter’s Chemistry Festival run at Bristol University
• Chemistry Clinic support groups tailored for differing courses
• Post 16 students are provided with the opportunity to take part in the RSC UK Chemistry Olympiad

Physics involves understanding how the physical world works and the models used to explain it. It looks at the fundamental laws of the universe and the building blocks of nature, and is a fascinating area of study that can open up a wealth of future career opportunities. Our teaching staff have a huge enthusiasm for their subject; they endeavour to make this complex and diverse subject engaging and fun and as a result physics is one of the most popular subjects at Clifton High.

Following the Diamond Edge Model of education, boys and girls are taught Physics in single-sex groups in Years 7 to 9. Pupils in Year 7 receive one lesson per week and those in Years 8 and 9 receive three lessons per fortnight.

GCSE, A level and beyond

At Clifton High we teach the three sciences separately and all pupils are required to take at least two sciences at GCSE. Physics is a popular subject at A level and students have gone on to study medicine, engineering, mathematics, physics, business and architecture at university. Over 60% of our GCSE students were awarded an A* in 2014 and 42% of A level students were awarded an A or A* grade. In 2015 59% of Physics GCSE were A* or A grade and 100% of A level students scored B grade or above. We have excellent links with Cardiff University, the University of Southampton, the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol who have provided ambassadors from their undergraduate and post-graduate student body to work with our students at Sixth Form. Physics students have gone on to work in engineering, medicine, architecture and computing.

Staff

At Clifton High physics is taught by two teachers supported by two science technicians. Their interests are broad ranging and include: old and new motor vehicles, technology, music and photography. Our physics staff form part of the Clifton High Science Department, a hub for outstanding teaching and learning. Lessons are interesting and innovative, offering plenty of challenges as well as practical opportunities.

Facilities

There are two dedicated physics laboratories, a newly equipped STEM room, a junior laboratory and a physics preparation room. We use interactive whiteboards and data projectors and have all the expected equipment including data loggers, optical emission equipment, telescopes, base boxes for learning about sound, polarisers, electron guns, oscilloscopes, van der Graaf generators and even an electrocuting gherkins kit.

Extra-curricular clubs and activities

• Science Club
• Physics booster sessions
• Future Technologies Club
• Revision courses

Competitions

• Student Robotics; 8th in the league in 2016
• Flying Start; we came first overall in this national competition in March 2016
• Rocket car day

Computing is an exciting and pioneering subject. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of up-to-the-minute technologies and ideas, lessons are absorbing and innovative, varied and motivating. At Clifton High School we teach both Computing and Information Technology. Information technology teaches pupils the fundamental office skills for example, writing a report or presentation or completing a spreadsheet; through IT they also receive an excellent introduction to programming through the exciting vehicle of computer games.

Pupils in Years 7 and 8 receive two hours of IT per fortnight and pupils in Year 9 receive four hours per fortnight.

Computing is offered at GCSE level and is of interest to those pupils who want to “get under the bonnet” of their computer. The course develops pupils’ analytical and problem-solving skills and can be an excellent basis, not only for computing, but also for those looking to pursue a career in engineering, financial and resource management, science and medicine.

Staff

We have one teacher with responsibility for computing and information technology. With a real passion for the technological world he also has an interest in PHP, JavaScript and Visual Basic programming.  Our teacher of Computing and IT also has responsibility as the School Curriculum Lead: Digital Learning at Clifton High School.

Facilities

• Two computer laboratories
• Lego Mindstorms
• Robotics kits
• Raspberry Pi computers

Extra-curricular

• We enter the Turtle Prize for computer programming
• Weekly Robot Club
• Biennial visit to The National Museum of Computing at Blet

Our Mathematics Department is staffed by a talented team of teachers who, working together, deliver the very best in mathematics education. The aim is to ensure that boys and girls enjoy this all important subject and are encouraged and challenged in their learning, making lessons interesting and enjoyable.

We introduce specialist mathematics teaching in Year 5 and in accordance with the Diamond Edge Model of education, to ensure boys and girls achieve their very best, mathematics is taught in single sex groups in Years 7 to 9. 

GCSE, A level and beyond

Mathematics is a compulsory GCSE subject in which our pupils perform well. Mathematics is consistently one of the most popular choices at AS and A2 level, with the brightest mathematicians also opting for further mathematics. Over the last 2 years 100% of GCSE pupils achieved A* to C grades. At A level 91% of students have achieved A* to B grades over the same period, with 100% achieving A* to C. Mathematics students have gone on to study sciences, medicine, architecture, engineering, music technology and mathematics at some of the best universities in the UK including Oxford, Cambridge and King's College London. We have excellent links with a range of universities including the University of Bristol, the University of Oxford, the University of Southampton, Cardiff University and Bath Spa University.

Staff

We have seven mathematics teachers at Clifton High School with interests ranging from topology to computing. They have a friendly approach and aim for lessons to be rigorous and fun, challenging yet supportive.

Facilities

Specialist mathematics classrooms include interactive whiteboards, smart response handsets, mathematics based puzzles and games. We also have a variety of equipment to support our mathematics teaching.

Extra-curricular clubs and activities

• Mathematics Puzzle clubs
• Junior Mathematics Competition
• Lunchtime support sessions
• Extension seminars
• Mathematics masterclasses
• Revision days
• Support for STEP and AEA papers and university interviews

At Clifton High School we aim to instil in our pupils a lifelong interest in literature and our teaching staff relish the opportunity to introduce pupils to some of the most significant texts in the English language. Similarly in our English Language courses we teach boys and girls the essentials of writing effectively and confidently across a range of styles and scenarios.

Boys and girls are taught English in single-gender groups in Years 7 to 9 in line with the principles of the Diamond Edge Model of education. We follow an integrated approach to language and literature, fostering the appreciation and analysis of literature, while developing language skills and creativity. In each year, we aim to study a minimum of one Shakespeare play, one 19^th century text, one modern play, one modern novel and a range of poetry, alongside skills-based exercises. Our philosophy is to respond to the tastes of each class and we often introduce new options as a result.

Across the year groups our approach is often responsive and spontaneous ensuring that lessons are interesting and enlightening. Teaching is engaging and learning is varied with discussion, presentation and role play. Pupils are also encouraged to study film, non-literary material and the spoken word.

GCSE, A level and beyond

Every pupil takes English Language and English Literature at GCSE with the courses running alongside each other. 40% of GCSE English students achieved A or A* in 2015. In the same year a third of A level English students went on to study the subject at university with 80% having achieved a grade B or above. Students have secured places to study English at some of the best universities in the UK, including Oxford. We have excellent links with the Universities of Oxford, Exeter and Sheffield and English students have gone on to work in journalism, publishing, law and teaching.

Staff and facilities

Our English teachers are enthusiastic about their subject and encouraging in their style. Individually they have a broad range of interests including theatre, the development of the novel, public speaking, song writing, classics and journalism. English is taught in three specialist teaching rooms with interactive whiteboards and projectors. There is an excellent fiction library which pupils can access in lunch breaks; Years 7 and 8 have regular library lessons, when they can focus on their own book choices. We show film adaptations of the texts we study as well as filmed stage plays. Pupils compare versions of text on film and we show poets reading their poems or actors performing them; pupils are also encouraged to analyse media texts in their own right. Pupils are filmed performing and talking, in order to develop presentation and oral skills.

Extra-curricular clubs and activities

• Debating
• Public Speaking and Competitions
• Creative Writing Club and Competitions
• Book Club, including Carnegie Shadowing
• Regular theatre trips to London, Stratford and local venues
• Lecture-based study day trips for GCSE and A-level students

The Geography Department is located across two spacious classrooms in the Senior School. Light, bright and airy the department is a stimulating and interesting environment displaying recordings and finds from field trips and expeditions as well as information relating to current areas of study. Geography is topical and thought-provoking, providing pupils with excellent awareness of domestic and global issues.

Learning methods are frequently interactive, seek to engage pupils and reflect multiple learning styles. Teaching regularly includes video making, solving mysteries, fieldwork, teamwork and debate. There is extensive equipment for outdoor learning as well as interactive resources for work in the classroom and a well-stocked DVD library. Our experience shows us that, for geography, boys and girls learn best when they are taught together, pupils in Years 7 to 9 receive three lessons of geography per fortnight in mixed-gender groups.

GCSE, A level and beyond

Geography is a popular subject at GCSE and achievement is high; in recent years over 80% of GCSE geography pupils have achieved A* to B grades. A level Geography is taught in tutorial-style lessons with smaller teaching groups allowing individual passions to be explored; 75% of students have achieved A grades in the past three years. 

Geography complements both the arts and the sciences and is a facilitating subject valued by universities. In recent years geography students have been inspired by their subject and have gone on to study human, physical or marine geography and pursue careers in related areas such as marine biology, development, ecology and oceanography. As a facilitating subject geographers have also successfully pursued careers in medicine, business, law and anthropology. We have excellent links with the University of Bristol, University of Leeds, University of Sussex and the University of Exeter. The department is also a member of the Royal Geographical Association.

Staff

There are three members of staff in the Geography Department, with interests including development, coastal and river management and tectonic hazards. The department has a keen focus on the environment and encourages pupils to take ownership of environmental issues. Staff and pupils work closely with the School’s Lead Specialist on Environmental Issues and pupils have taken responsibility and developed the school’s environmental policy and 'eco-code' . The focus and commitment of staff and pupils together has been a key factor in securing the Eco-School’s Green Flag Award for Clifton High.

Facilities

• Interactive resources
• Extensive fieldwork equipment
• Vast DVD library
• Interactive whiteboards

Extra-curricular

• Eco Committee
• Eco Club
• Group revision and booster sessions
• One-to-one revision sessions
• Fieldwork and residential trips - we have excellent links with geographical field studies centres and our GCSE and A level students take advantage of these facilities carrying out first-hand research into both physical and human geography each year. Our most recent trips have been to study coastal processes at Exmouth Beach and to investigate the geography of chocolate at Cadbury World, Bournwille.
• Topical trips and visits in the UK - for example to Yeo Valley Farm or the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Slimbridge.

The study of history sparks curiosity in the past and an understanding of how it influences the present. Pupils learn about the diversity of human experience, what motivates decisions and the impact on the world today. Through learning about the choices of others, history students often learn more about themselves.

In Years 7 to 9 pupils study the most important events over the last thousand years both in the UK and overseas, from the impact of the Normans through to World War II. Students are encouraged to use and interpret source data, debate with confidence and appreciate different interpretations of world events. Pupils in Years 7 to 9 are taught history in mixed gender groups and receive three lessons per fortnight.

GCSE, A level and beyond

Current pupils study Cambridge IGCSE History which offers pupils the opportunity to study modern world history from the nineteenth century to the beginning of the twenty-first century. This includes international relations from 1919 and German History in the build up to World War II. The IGCSE allows pupils to study a range of modern history whilst retaining a coursework element and providing an internationally recognised academic qualification. At A-Level, students study two gripping periods in UK and world history - The Tudors 1485-1603 and a study of Russian history from 1914-1953. History students have successfully pursued degrees in a range of subjetcs including history, law, archaeology, philosophy, modern foreign languages, film, marketing and fine art at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.

Staff and facilities

The History Department is staffed by three teachers whose skills encompass many historical periods such as ancient, medieval, as well as modern and politics.Our History Department has excellent facilities including a very well stocked departmental library, all our classrooms have interactive whiteboards and touchscreens enabling us to use a variety of media in our lessons. The department has excellent links with the University of the West of England which is able to support our sixth form students, who are completeing their Historical Enquiries, with source materials.

Extra-curricular

We support our classroom based learning with a range of interesting trips and visits both in the UK and overseas. The History department organises enthusing and fascinating visiting speakers such as professional historians, Members of Parliament and outreach workers from war torn regions of the world.There is also a popular Historical Film Club and the Young Contrarians - a debating group of sixth form students. Recent trips have included Chepstow Castle, SS Great Britain, First World War Battlefields, Hampton Court Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and there are plans for further trips in 2017-2018.

French is spoken across five continents, it is the official language of many global organisations such as the EU, UN, UNESCO and the International Red Cross and is a skill sought after by many UK employers. We have a thriving French Department at Clifton High School and we aim to foster our pupils’ interest in French language and culture.

Lessons are creative, engaging and full of energy; we make use of a wide variety of teaching methods ensuring that different learning styles are met. Our resources and facilities are excellent and we aim for all our boys and girls to develop in confidence and improve their competence in listening, reading, speaking and writing French. Pupils are also encouraged to undertake independent learning through reviewing current news, music and topical media items.

Boys and girls are taught modern languages in single sex groups in Year 7 and they cover the basics of the French language in five lessons per fortnight. In Years 8 and 9 they are taught in mixed groups building on their knowledge of grammar, verbs, tenses and vocabulary. Pupils in Year 8 receive three lessons of French per fortnight and those in Year 9 receive four. Children in Years 4, 5 and 6 are also taught French by teachers from the French Department.

GCSE, A Level and beyond

French is a popular subject at A level and GCSE. In 2016 100% of GCSE students achieved A* to B grades and at A level 100% of students achieved A grades at AS and at A Level 100% achieved A*-B.  Students have gone on to study a variety of subjects in addition to foreign languages; these include English, Comparative literature, Business Management and European Studies and we have forged excellent links with the University of Bristol and Bath Spa University.

Staff

The French Department comprises two French teachers and a French Language Assistant. All staff have a wide range of linguistic experiences and interests which help shape teaching and ensure lessons are varied and engaging. All staff are passionate about French language and culture and interests include French cinema, literature, drama, politics, music and technology. Lessons are planned and taught by both teachers and our language assistant supports with small group work and one to one sessions designed to boost oral communication skills.

Facilities

• Interactive whiteboards
• Language laboratory
• Mp3 players and up-to-date software programmes to accompany GCSE and A level courses
• Language magazines (Mary Glasgow publications, Okapi, Paris Match) available in the library
• A large selection of DVDs
• Access to interactive websites such as Zut. Linguascope and À Tantôt

Extra-curricular

• Revision sessions and a range of lunchtime French clubs
• Language masterclass sessions
• Interschool French language debates
• Cultural and linguistic trips.  The most recent have been to Brittany and Paris
• Visits from the Onatti touring language theatre companies
• Trips to watch French language films
• Sixth form lectures at the University of Bristol
• We also participate in the Bristol–Bordeaux Exchange and arrange work experience through Halsbury Travel

 

German is the native language of over one hundred million European citizens and is sought after by many employers both at home and abroad: Britain is Germany's largest trading partner. Learning german provides an excellent foundation for developing listening and communication skills and gives pupils a broad understanding of other cultures. As with all our modern languages, german lessons are lively, engaging and interactive. We are very proud of our results at GCSE and A level and our wide variety of extra-curricular activities.

Pupils have the opportunity to study german from Year 7 and we aim to provide them with an excellent grounding to take them through to the GCSE course. Topics studied have relevance to pupils’ everyday lives, they learn basic grammar and start to build up a broad vocabulary. Boys and girls are taught together in german lessons, with pupils in Year 7 receiving five lessons of german per fortnight,  three lessons per fortnight in Year 8 and four in Year 9. Pupils in Years 5 and 6 are also offered taster sessions in German from our Senior School German teacher.

GCSE, A Level and beyond

We offer GCSE and A level german, both of which are popular. Results are excellent. The GCSE course allows pupils to develop their speaking, listening reading and writing skills and to learn about other cultures.  In 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016, all pupils studying german achieved A* to C grades at GCSE. The A level course stretches students further to develop their communication and debating skills and in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016, all students achieved either A* to C grades. Many german A level students have chosen to continue their language studies at top universities such as Durham and Sheffield, while others have branched into more diverse subjects such as computer game design. We have links with the German Department at the University of Bristol.

Staff

German is taught by a full-time german teacher who is supported by a German Language Assistant. Our german teacher is a keen advocate of the use of IT, drama, films and songs in her teaching and the department also uses games and competitions to make learning challenging and fun. All pupils from Year 7 to 11 work in small groups with our language assistant to improve their oral communication skills and A level students benefit from a one to one session every week with her in addition to their normal lessons.

Facilities

• Interactive whiteboards
• Language laboratory
• Subscriptions to Gut! , Linguascope, Kerboodle, Dynamic Learning and À Tantôt online learning sites
• Subscriptions to german magazines
• A large selection of DVDs which include german films plus the TV series “extr@” and “Hennings Haus”.
• mp3 players and access to up-to-date online learning platforms (GCSE and A level)

Extra-curricular

• Film evenings
• Interschool Sixth Form german language debates
• 'Fasching' Quiz evenings to celebrate the german carnival season
• Theatre and cinema visits
• Language day at the University of Bristol
• Residential trips to Germany and Austria
• Sixth form literature workshops
• All West of England Sixth Form lectures
• Easter revision sessions
• One to one language sessions with our Language Assistant
• We also have excellent links with the other schools in Bristol and often arrange joint events

Latin at Clifton High School is an engaging and academically rigorous subject with its feet planted firmly in the 21st century. The subject provides pupils with a solid grammatical grounding and appreciation of the language of the Romans, alongside investigation into this fascinating ancient culture. The study of latin enables pupils to understand how language works in general, and they are encouraged to make links between Latin and the Romance languages of which it forms the basis. Through learning Latin, pupils therefore gain valuable insight into their own mother tongue. It is also very useful to learn alongside the modern foreign languages offered at Clifton High School.

The Classics Department here at Clifton High School is committed to providing pupils with a solid understanding of Latin whilst fostering genuine curiosity for, and enjoyment in, the subject. To that end, the language is brought to life through a variety of teaching and learning strategies which include kinaesthetic, visual and auditory activities as well as creative projects. It is not uncommon for new concepts or vocabulary to be practised through dramatics and musical presentations in the classroom, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy! Boys and girls are taught latin in mixed-gender groups for one lesson per week in Years 7 and 8. Latin is an optional subject in Year 9 and pupils receive four lessons per fortnight.

GCSE, A level and beyond

Throughout GCSE and A Level, students develop greater competence in Latin, as well as a sensitive and analytical approach to language generally. In addition, pupils gain an awareness of the influence of classical languages on the languages of today, and their distinctive modes of expression. Pupils get the opportunity to read some of the great, and most influential, authors of the Western Canon in their original form, whilst developing the ability to analyse and sensitively respond to the written word. Latin is a well-respected subject which is highly valued by universities and employers due to the rigorous learning involved, as well as the highly transferable skills gained by pupils of latin; these include critical reflection, analytical and evaluative thinking, and the ability to present arguments clearly, logically and incisively, to name but a few.

Staff

The Classics Department is comprised of two members of staff who consider themselves life-long learners with a real passion for their subject. Their interests include gender in the ancient world, philosophy, epic and Roman rhetoric.

Facilities and resources

• Cambridge Latin Course eLearning software
• A library of classical books and DVDs
• Interactive whiteboard
• Omnibus magazines

Extra-curricular

• Residential trips to Greece and Italy
• Local trips to the Roman Baths at Bath, the Corinium Museum at Cirencester, Chedworth Roman Villa and the Roman Legion Museum at Caerleon
• Theatre visits to see ancient tragedies and comedies
• Easter revision sessions
• Classics Society
• Latin booster sessions

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world and as such, knowledge of Spanish language and culture is much sought after by many employers. Our Spanish Department is lively and lessons are engaging, interactive and fun. In teaching Spanish, our emphasis is on giving pupils the skills and confidence to communicate in real-life situations such as travelling, shopping, eating in restaurants or asking for directions. As pupils progress through GCSE and A level more complex grammar and vocabulary are introduced and communication skills become more highly developed. Throughout the age groups topics are chosen which have relevance and interest to our young men and women.

In Year 7 pupils receive five lessons per fortnight. Pupils in Year 8 receive three lessons per fortnight and those in Year 9 are taught four lessons per fortnight. At GCSE pupils have 6 lessons a fortnight and support sessions at lunchtime with the Spanish assistant. At A-level they receive 10 lessons a fortnight and two extra timetabled lessons with the Spanish assistant to focus on grammar and oral skills. They are taught in small groups and make outstanding progress.

GCSE, A Level and beyond

In 2017, 100% of A level students gained A*-B grades and at GCSE, 100% of pupils gained A*-C grades in Spanish. Students have chosen to study at some of the best universities in the UK and we have excellent links with the University of Oxford, University of Sheffield and the University of Bristol.

Staff

There are four members of staff in the Spanish Department, three teachers and a Spanish Language Assistant. Many members of staff have lived, worked or studied in Spain; culture, communication, food, travel and dance are some of their many interests.

Facilities

• Interactive whiteboards
• Language laboratory
• Subscriptions to many online learning sites
• Subscriptions to Spanish magazines
• A large selection of DVDs

Extra-curricular

• Inter-school Spanish language debates
• Spanish clubs
• Dance lessons (conducted in Spanish)
• Theatre and cinema visits
• Residential trips to Spain
• Student exchange and penpal programmes
• Sixth form lectures at the University of Bristol
• Spanish-speaking guest speakers
• One to one language sessions with our Language Assistant

Our beautiful, light and airy art studios are home to our Art and Design Department. A lively, creative hub, pupils have the opportunity to develop their skills, express their creative ideas and explore a wide range of materials and techniques.

At Clifton High we cover the formal elements of art and design which include drawing, painting, mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, IT and photography. The study of art history and art appreciation are also important elements of our curriculum.

Boys and girls in Years 7 to 9 receive one fifty minute art lesson per week and we encourage all our pupils to become successful confident young artists whatever their age or ability.

Clifton High School Art Gallery

GCSE, A level and beyond

We offer GCSE and A level art and design and have excellent links with both the University of the West of England, Bristol School of Art and Weston College. GCSE and A level students perform consistently well in art and design with the vast majority achieving A* to B grades.  Clifton High students have gone on to study fine art, architecture, graphic design, illustration, film making and photography. We also have a number of professional artists among our former students, including illustrator Katie Tomlinson, who has designed for Doctor Martens and Radley, London and award winning textile designer, Helen Milne.

Staff

Our Head of Art and Design is an accomplished painter and printmaker who has exhibited regularly at the Royal West of England Academy of Art. The Head of Art and Design is supported by two art technicians and a digital photography specialist. One of our technicians is a ceramics specialist and the other specialises in junior art. Our photography specialist worked extensively in the field of wildlife photography and is able to share his skills and experience with the pupils of Clifton High.

Facilities

• Two beautifully lit art studios incorporating our display gallery
• Junior art room incorporating our ceramics studio and kiln room
• Digital photography studio with digital SLR cameras and studio lighting
• Photography dark room with cyanotype, photography and screen-printing exposure unit
• Specialist print making equipment for drypoint, collagraphy, linocut and screenprinting
• IT facilities with Photoshop, animation and film editing software
• Scanner and pen drawing tablets
• A comprehensive art history library

Extra-curricular

• Animation Club
• Photography Club
• Trips and visits to art galleries in the UK and abroad
• Annual two-day artist workshop for A level students
• Annual Bristol Senior Schools Art Exhibition

At Clifton High we value the performing arts and the contribution they make towards the personal and social development of our pupils. We teach Drama until Year 11 and Theatre Studies at A level; through our Speech and Drama Club pupils also have the opportunity to take Trinity Guildhall examinations.

In Years 7 to 9 boys and girls are taught drama together for two lessons per fortnight. Through workshops and performances they are encouraged to develop self-confidence, team work, empathy and emotional resilience. They are introduced to a range of drama skills and styles of theatre such as mask work and theatre in education.

All pupils are given the opportunity to participate in drama performances throughout their school life. Children from Nursery to Year 6 stage Christmas productions and Years 4 and 6 also put on an annual production. The main school production takes place once a year and sees large cast performances, with pupils also taking on backstage roles.

GCSE, A Level and beyond

Clifton High teaches Drama to GCSE level and Theatre Studies at A level. We have excellent links with Bristol University and London Royal Holloway in particular. Students have gone on to study drama with English, theatre studies, musical theatre, directing and film studies. Former pupils have also attended prestigious drama schools such as Bristol Old Vic, Birbeck College and Arts Education and some have gone on to pursue successful careers in costume design, sound and set design.

Staff

Our Drama Department prides itself on being innovative and supportive. Our staff have extensive experience and particular interests in physical theatre, original devised works and comedy. They often collaborate with the English and Music Departments for the main annual production.

Facilities

• The Main Hall is used for public performances either in the round, the traverse or the proscenium arch. It is equipped with an excellent sound system, projection screen and lighting rig.
• The Rose Theatre is a smaller performance and rehearsal space which seats an audience of 170. It has excellent projection facilities, a dance mirror with barre and an up-to-date sound system.
• Two purpose built dressing rooms
• Purpose built prop room and storage rooms
• Drama studio with curtains and projection screen
• Speech and Drama Room for one to one work

Extra-curricular

• Speech and Drama Club
• Glee Club
• Shakespeare Club
• Acting Club
• Annual School drama production
• Trips and visits to theatre performance in the UK
• Visits from actors and theatre professionals

Food and nutrition is a popular subject at Clifton High School. The classes are full of energy and creativity; pupils are encouraged to be inventive as well as learning the basics of choosing, preparing and cooking food. Food and nutrition is taught throughout the Senior School and is also integrated into our curriculum for children in the Nursery School to Year 6.

All boys and girls in Year 7 to 9 receive three lessons per fortnight. These classes are taught in a mixed-gender environment. Pupils will make a variety of sweet and savoury dishes across the year and learn all aspects of the new GCSE Food and Nutrition course.

GCSE and beyond

We teach food and nutrition at GCSE and we have forged excellent links with University College Birmingham in particular. Due to Government changes, food technology A Level is no longer offered. 

Staff

The Food and Nutrition Department is run by one member of staff with a dedication and passion for their subject.

Facilities

Food and nutrition is taught in a large spacious classroom that is light, bright and airy. In the academic year 2015-2016, as part of an ongoing programme to update our technologies facilities, our Food and Nutrition Room was completely refurbished to include a modern working environment, with a demonstration area and an extensive range of equipment.

Extra-curricular

• Year 5 and 6 cooking club
• University cooking preparation
• Cooking competitions
• Trips  

Clifton High School offers a wide variety of musical opportunities at the highest level. Our Music Department bustles with activity and music emanates from the classrooms and practice rooms before, during and after school. Music is an integral part of the curriculum from Nursery to Year 9 and pupils can also take individual instrumental or singing lessons or join one of our many groups, orchestras, choirs or clubs. Children truly enjoy music at Clifton High, performances and productions are of the highest standard and teachers and pupils work collaboratively together for events such as Rose Day and the annual Carol Service.

In Years 7 to 9 pupils receive one lesson of music per week, areas of study are broad and include jazz, reggae, folk, classical and baroque. During these lessons pupils also have the opportunity to play a variety of musical instruments. In Years 7 to 9 pupils can also chose to study music technology from a choice of four technology subjects.  This allows them to use the excellent facilities in our music technology suites and try out the Garageband and Sibelius programmes.

GCSE, A level and beyond

We teach both GCSE and A level music at Clifton High. The GCSE course broadens pupils’ musical horizons and covers performance, composition and a wide range of set works from baroque to ambient dance tracks. The A level course builds on this and allows students to further their own musical interests especially in composition and performance. In 2014 all GCSE and A level students achieved A* to B grades. 

Staff

The Music Department is staffed by two full time teachers who both have a dedication and passion for their subject. Their musical interests range from twentieth century experimental music to traditional choral music. In addition to our full time music staff, over fifteen peripatetic music teachers offer a variety of instrument lessons on an individual basis.

Facilities

• Six practice rooms, each with a piano, plus a drum room
• Music technology suite with eight Apple Mac computers and midi keyboards
• Recording Equipment

Extra-curricular

• Year 2 Choir
• Junior Chamber Choir
• Junior Choir
• X Choir (Junior School)
• String Group
• Brass Ensemble
• Wind Band
• Orchestra
• Cantata
• Chamber Choir
• Theory Club
• Il Canto Sonari (Barbershop Quartet)

Product design is where creativity can be fully expressed and this creativity can be used to change the world. Nearly 10% of people in the UK are employed directly in creative industries and many more use their creativity to excel in their careers.

At Clifton High we want to produce creative, problem solving pupils ready for our ever changing world. Product design will allow pupils to be inquisitive, innovative, take design risks, challenge conventional thinking and design innovative products that surprise. Throughout the year all pupils will design a range of solutions to everyday problems and then produce prototypes in our workshop, building on their hand skills but also incorporating the exciting areas of computer aided design and manufacture with our laser cutter, vinyl cutter and new 3D printers. These products will be based on architecture, engineering, product design, packaging and anything else that sparks our interests.

Product design is a subject new to Clifton High last year. All pupils in years 7, 8 and 9 are taught product design three lessons per fortnight.

GCSE, A level and beyond

Product design is also now available at GCSE and A level.

Product designers can go onto a huge range of directly related careers, such as architecture and engineering or use their creativity to be top of their chosen fields.

Facilities

Most lessons will take place in our large workshop with its good range of facilities but when tackling Computer Aided Design we will use the computer facilities at Clifton High School.

Staff

Product Design is staffed by one full time teacher who has a wealth of industrial and school experience in product design and all its related fields.

Extra-curricular activities

• Trips and visits
• Lunch time and after schools clubs: 3D printing, Lego Architecture and suggestions welcome for others