Shell
Pupils join Peponi School at 13+ (Shell). Shell is crucial to the development not only of academic ability but also of the character and identity of a Peponi School pupil. Shell (Year 9) is a staging post between preparatory or primary school and the structured learning of the IGCSE years.
All Shell pupils take the same compulsory subjects. The year group is divided into three mixed-ability classes: A, B and C. For English, Mathematics, the Sciences and the Languages the year is divided into four. With regards to Mathematics, the Sciences and the Languages, these are set classes. Currently, the core curriculum comprises:
- English Language
- English Literature
- Mathematics
- Science (each of the three sciences; biology, chemistry and physics; are taught separately by specialist teachers)
- Geography
- History
- Art and Design
- ICT
- Music
- Religious Studies
- PSHE
- Two Modern Foreign Languages (out of Spanish, French, German or Swahili)
- Swahili + Culture
Many of our pupils join us having taken ISEB Common Entrance Examinations at their preparatory school. Pupils who join us from schools following the key stage 3 or the 8-4-4 programme will be asked to sit similar examinations shortly after being offered a place.
In the majority of subjects, the IGCSE syllabuses are started in Shell. This allows pupils to fully appreciate what is expected of them in those subjects for IGCSE. In addition strong foundations for academic success are laid early in order to develop a pupil’s academic direction and abilities.
Six tutors are responsible for the supervision, guidance and care of all the pupils in their form; they are core members of the pastoral team and make sure the pupils are happy and settled. Pupils meet their Tutor each morning for registration and Tutors (usually) teach them one of their subjects during the week. Tutors are aware of the record of attendance and academic progress and of individual circumstances and needs.