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@StJohnsAberdare

17:46 PM - 18 Jul 2025

The school is now closed for the summer holidays. Wishing all pupils, staff and families a deserved break. We look forward to welcoming everyone in September— StJohnsAberdare () July 18, 2025

https://x.com/StJohnsAberdare/status/1945434847154929860

11:46 AM - 16 Jul 2025

Pupils collecting their award for the 2025 Welsh Heritage Schools Initiative at the Swansea Waterfront Museum pic.twitter.com/pBmU1D9fMD— StJohnsAberdare () July 16, 2025

18:27 PM - 12 Jul 2025

pic.twitter.com/TgVk6inr4w— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

https://x.com/MrsLong_SJB/status/1944081954619764838

18:10 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Yum… burgers! pic.twitter.com/pATbEMy0Yh— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

18:10 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Disney bound…. pic.twitter.com/zJ54RefKWu— KS3 StJohn’s () July 12, 2025

18:10 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Disney bound…. pic.twitter.com/zJ54RefKWu— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

https://x.com/MrsLong_SJB/status/1944046598096355551

15:50 PM - 12 Jul 2025

When in Paris, the city of food…. pic.twitter.com/w1E9ct20tS— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

https://x.com/MrsLong_SJB/status/1944033876382253182

14:59 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Paris pic.twitter.com/IqtLAp9eT2— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

https://x.com/MrsLong_SJB/status/1944022199129473052

14:13 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Paris pic.twitter.com/pHKVIRubcN— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

https://x.com/MrsLong_SJB/status/1944022085451321475

14:12 PM - 12 Jul 2025

Paris pic.twitter.com/rmHJ4uN4c8— Mrs Long () July 12, 2025

Overview of Curriculum

Our curriculum seeks to offer a broad and balanced experince which enables each member of the school community to become the ‘best versions of themselves’.

The formal and informal curriculum is designed so that all pupils, regardless of their background or ability, is able to flourish, preparing them to

  • achieve the very best academic standards in all subject areas, commensurate with their own ability;

  • utilise the necessary skills which helps prepare them for life beyond school; and

  • live good lives, underpinned by our core gospel values.

We take every opportunity to ensure all pupils make the best progress possible and achieve the highest possible standards in subjects and qualifications. We strive to narrow the gaps in achievement and enable those not achieving age-related expectations to catch up with their peers. Our ALNCo works closely with all departments, to support pupils so that they all have access to the curriculum.

The school challenges more able and talented pupils so that they achieve their full potential and their progress is sustained and enhanced. We make certain that all young people develop the skills and abilities needed for success in life and can apply them in a wide range of contexts.

In most subjects, pupils are grouped in classes based broadly by ability. A process of setting, determined by a range of subjects, takes place as pupils move through the school. 

Curriculum Organisation
Within Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9), the school curriculum consists of

  • Core subjects: English, Welsh, mathematics, science and religion, values and ethics;

  • Non-core subjects: Modern foreign languages, design technology, ICT, history, geography, art, music, drama, physical education, PSE (including Relationships and Sexuality Education) and careers and the world of work.

Within Key Stage 4 (Years 10 - 11), the school curriculum consists of

  • Compulsory subjects: English language and English literature, Welsh second language, mathematics: numeracy, mathematics, science, religious education, physical education and Welsh Baccalaureate;

  • PSE (including Relationships and Sexuality Education) and careers and the world of work; and

  • A broad range of academic and vocational courses leading to external qualifications (based on demand). 

Within the sixth form, also known as key stage 5, the school curriculum consists of

  • A broad range of courses leading to external qualifications; and

  • All students follow the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Qualification (AdvSBW).

"Teachers have strong subject knowledge and establish beneficial routines to ensure that pupils settle quickly and are ready to learn" (Estyn)