Middle School

The Middle School offers a holistic educational programme that continues building on the foundations laid in the Junior School, whilst also taking into account the students’ changing needs by supporting and promoting their physical and mental development through carefully constructed educational activities. The raison d’être of the Middle School is to make the transition from Junior to Senior School levels smooth and seamless. The Middle School caters for children aged 11 and 12, that is, in Years 7 and 8. An important transition process we employ from Year 6 Junior School to Year 7 is through the use of literature. The boys read an assigned book in Year 6. In Year 7, as part of the transition into Middle School, the boys have their lessons revolving around the book. Towards the end of Year 8, the students receive help and advice in order to choose appropriate subjects for their move into Year 9. In Year 8, the students chose the subjects they will follow for their last three years in College. We have a parents’ evening to discuss and clarify all the available choices.

Reaching Goals and Aspirations

Students in the Middle School are at the age where they begin to aspire towards adulthood, and try very hard to “fit in” and establish themselves as individuals. As a result, children at this particular stage of growth need lots of support to develop the necessary skills that are needed to make them truly independent and accountable for their actions. The Middle School curriculum supports the needs and varied interests of our students in an environment that is safe, yet not stifling, and thus allows them to develop a sense of independence and assertiveness.

As well as these subjects, the students have the opportunity, on a Friday afternoon, to take part in a non-academic activity of their choice. The list of past activities has been: First Aid, Sports, Geo Club, Media Studies, Investigating Archeology, Drama/Guitar Lessons, Experimental Science, and Cookery. These are very popular and are a perfect way to end the week in school.

Students’ progress is carefully monitored through formative and summative assessments and ongoing communication between parents and teachers. Our children are encouraged to achieve their highest academic potential and to assume responsibilities that will help them develop qualities which characterise the true Edwardian, such as self-discipline, independence, leadership, and organisation.

Widening Horizons Through Experience

At St Edward’s College, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our Middle School students benefit from a variety of enriching experiences abroad, including cultural and educational trips such as the Year 6 tour to Sicily, where history is brought to life through visits to ancient Roman and Greek sites. These opportunities not only deepen subject knowledge but also foster independence, confidence, and a global perspective. Closer to home, students are encouraged to explore their creativity and critical thinking through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities. From coding and robotics to design projects and science experiments, these engaging sessions nurture innovation and teamwork – skills essential for future success.