Recent developments in national education have seen a shift towards a more streamlined curriculum, with schools prioritising English, Maths, Science and the Humanities while reducing provision in creative and practical subjects. At Norwich High School for Girls, we are taking a very different approach. Our newly enhanced curriculum model for Years 7 to 9 reflects our deep commitment to breadth and variety, ensuring that our students develop a diverse skill set and a lifelong love of learning across multiple disciplines.

Rather than narrowing subject choices, we offer parity between humanities, the creative and performing arts, design and technology, physical education, modern and classical languages and our Beyond enrichment programme. By giving equal weight to subjects such as Geography and History alongside Art, Drama, Product Design and Music, we ensure that our students experience a truly varied and holistic education. All pupils take in part regular physical education, team and/or individual sports. Beyond offers broader life skills ensuring our pupils are prepared for life beyond the classroom.

This approach not only nurtures creativity and critical thinking but also equips students with the adaptability and problem-solving skills essential for success in an ever-changing world.

Our language model throughout Years 7 to 9 is another key feature of our curriculum. While many schools are scaling back their language provision, our students have the opportunity to study two Modern Foreign Languages as well as Latin and Classics. This ensures they develop linguistic agility, cultural awareness and analytical thinking skills, setting them apart as confident, globally-minded individuals.

A recent BBC article, ‘Music is too often neglected by policymakers’, highlighted the decreasing provision of music education in schools, with students in some areas missing out on opportunities to develop their musical talents. At Norwich High School for Girls, we firmly believe that music is an essential part of a well-rounded education and our commitment to high-quality music provision remains unwavering.

Mark Hall, Director of Music at Norwich High School for Girls, emphasises: “It is deeply concerning to see so many music providers struggling and losing recognition on a national scale within education. At Norwich High, we are proud that music is an integral part of daily life and is valued equally alongside all academic subjects. Our commitment to music education is reflected in dedicated curriculum time from Early Years to A Level, a well-supported programme and a rich variety of co-curricular opportunities: whether through choirs, orchestras and our rock bands or individual instrumental tuition, we ensure that every student has the chance to explore and develop their musical abilities and creativity. Music not only fosters collaboration but also enhances cognitive skills, discipline and emotional well-being.”

Our enriched curriculum at Norwich High School for Girls is designed to inspire, challenge and empower our students. By maintaining a broad and ambitious programme of study, we provide opportunities for every individual to discover their strengths and passions. In contrast to the increasing specialisation seen nationally in the education sector, our holistic approach ensures that our students leave us with a rich and diverse skill set, ready to embrace the opportunities of the future with confidence and enthusiasm.

In an educational landscape where breadth is becoming a rarity, we are proud to champion a curriculum that nurtures creativity, critical thinking and a love of learning. At Norwich High School for Girls, we are not just preparing students for exams—we are preparing them for life.