We educate towards developing intellectual ingenuity, an understanding of social awareness and where potential feels limitless. Connectedness SECONDARY

SECONDARY INTRODUCTION TO AIS SECONDARY At AIS Secondary, we provide a broad learning experience grounded in a unique approach, prioritising emotional well-being and creativity, we create learning spaces where students think critically and deeply, going beyond memorisation and high-stakes testing.

In secondary education at AIS, we work towards meeting three essential goals rooted in Waldorf Steiner Education and in the British National Curriculum:
1. To help the students develop the capacity to think critically and communicate effectively.
2. To help students learn about themselves, the human heritage and the nature of interconnectedness in the world in which we live.
3. To prepare students for work and further education by supporting the development of individual aptitudes and interests.
We provide a broad learning experience grounded in a unique approach, where less emphasis on testing in a more stress-free and supportive environment promotes better results.

ATTRIBUTES OF AIS SECONDARY AIS offers a vibrant learning environment of academics and creative expression. Learners explore arts, crafts, drama, music, and movement, fostering a deep understanding of the world and our place within it.
Study is Transformative Potential Feels Limitless AIS Secondary education is tailored to the unique needs of adolescents. We nurture self-awareness, resilience, and the critical skills needed for success in life. In a rapidly changing world, our graduates are adaptable and well-prepared for diverse higher education paths, with opportunities both within Spain and across the globe.
At AIS, we educate our students in a culture of respect, kindness, and social responsibility. Our supportive inclusive, multicultural community empowers students to express themselves freely, fostering open dialogue and mutual respect. With tutors guiding learners throughout their educational journey, lasting relationships are formed.
Voices are Valued

A key aspect of the transition from KS2 to KS3 is the shift in teaching approach. In Class Six (Year 7), students are taught in their home classroom by their class teacher, who provides continuity and a nurturing learning environment.

The morning Main Lesson covers Drama, English, History, Geography, Maths, and Sciences (among others). These subjects are taught in 3-week blocks, at the end of which an assessment tailored to that topic encourages reflective peer and self-assessment.
In Classes Seven and Eight (Years 8 and 9), students will start to learn with subject specialist teachers and move around the school for their lessons.

Subject Lessons
Class Seven and Eight students engage in a structured timetable of lessons in various subjects, each taught by specialist teachers. This approach allows for in-depth exploration of each discipline and encourages students to develop their individual interests and talents while building a solid foundation for future academic pursuits.
KEY STAGE 3 (12 to 14 years of age) Key Stage 3 begins when children start secondary education in Class 6/Year 7. The curriculum builds on the skills and learning experiences that the students bring from primary.

In Key Stage 3 our curriculum transitions from the experiential, holistic focus of the earlier Steiner years towards the more structured academic rigours required for the National Curriculum of England and preparation for external qualifications like the IGCSE, BTEC, and eventual A-Levels.
The curriculum includes a balanced mix of academic, artistic, and practical subjects:
Each subject is taught with a focus on active learning, critical thinking, and real-world application. We encourage students to explore their creativity, express their ideas, and develop a sense of responsibility for their learning journey. Upon joining the school, all new KS3 students take an adapted Cambridge English proficiency test at a B1 level to ascertain their competence in reading, using English, and writing.

Students in Classes Six to Eight also take the Cambridge Lower Secondary English as a Second Language proficiency tests three times a year.
For students in KS3 with lower levels of English proficiency, we offer extracurricular classes and in school support to help them improve their language skills and engage more fully in the curriculum.
English Language Proficiency

A School Day in KS3 The structured timetable of subject lessons, combined with the intentional focus on community and well-being, creates a nurturing and stimulating environment where students can transition smoothly into the more academic rigours of the later Key Stages while still benefiting from the holistic foundation established in their earlier years. Special Features of the School Week:
  • Choir (Classes 7 and 8): Our school choir meets on Wednesday mornings. Considered an integral part of a broad and balanced curriculum, it offers students a creative outlet for musical expression and fosters teamwork and collaboration.

  • School Assembly (Classes 6-10): Assemblies take place during the last lesson on Thursdays and provide a space for community building, reflection, and celebration. Themes are incorporated such as seasonal festivals, current and historical events, interactive activities, and student performances.
Class 7 Timetable
Class 8 Timetable
The Timetable
Each school day in Key Stage 3 begins with Circle Time, which is led by the Class Teacher. This dedicated time fosters connection and focus through activities like music, games, rhythmic exercises, poetry recitation, and discussions on important and current themes. By incorporating this time into their morning routine ensures that students start their day feeling grounded, engaged, and receptive to learning.

Without the need for rote learning or the stress of systematic testing in the younger years, we are able to offer a broad curriculum where the teachers have more opportunity to be creative with their input.

In Class Nine, students begin their two-year preparation for the IGCSEs. The curriculum aligns with the requirements of the exam boards for each course (either Pearson Edexcel or Cambridge). Students have a range of five core and three optional IGCSE courses:
KEY STAGE 4 (15 to 16 years of age) In Key Stage 4, students embark on an even more focused academic journey, preparing for external qualifications - the IGCSE exams. We strive to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen fields and beyond. Our curriculum and teaching methods emphasise critical thinking, discernment, and creative decision-making. We aim to foster self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of responsibility as students prepare to become active contributors to society.

Timetables are personalised according to individual subject choices, reflecting the diverse interests and aspirations of our students.
IGCSE Preparation Students with native-level proficiency in a language offered at the GCSE level (e.g., French, German, Russian, Spanish) may also choose to take those exams through independent study and preparation.
All students also enjoy history, PSHE, and sports (including basketball, football, volleyball, and swimming) as enrichment (non-GCSE) lessons once per week.
Language Proficiency