KS3CurriculumOverview

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) Curriculum Intent

At ILM High School, our Key Stage 3 curriculum lays the essential foundations for academic success, spiritual growth, and strong character development. These formative years are designed to cultivate a love of learning, nurture curiosity and support pupils in becoming confident young Muslims who think critically, act responsibly and embody Islamic values in all aspects of school life.

Through a broad and ambitious curriculum, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and habits needed for success at GCSE and beyond. Our aim is to ensure every pupil feels supported, challenged, and inspired as they progress through their early secondary journey.

Curriculum Aims

At Key Stage 3, we aim to:

• Build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, scientific thinking and essential knowledge across all subjects.

• Embed Islamic values and character development through Qur’anic Studies, Islamic Studies and daily reflection.

• Inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through engaging, knowledge-rich teaching.

• Develop pupils’ confidence and communication skills through discussion, collaboration and project-based learning.

• Support every child to meet their potential through personalised monitoring, interventions and high-quality pastoral care.

• Encourage self-discipline, good manners, and responsibility, fostering a culture of ihsan (excellence) in all areas of school life.

Subjects Offered

Pupils study a broad and balanced curriculum designed to stretch and support them in equal measure:

Core Subjects

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

• History

• ICT 

• Art & Design

• Physical Education

• PSE (Personal, Social & Health Education)

Islamic and Language Studies

• Arabic Language – developing reading, writing, speaking, and understanding.

• Qur’anic Studies – focusing on tajweed, fluency and memorisation.

• Islamic Studies – strengthening knowledge of Islamic belief, practice, history and manners.

Learning Environment

Our KS3 classrooms are vibrant spaces where pupils are encouraged to:

• Engage positively with challenging ideas and high expectations.

• Develop independence and resilience in their learning.

• Connect their academic learning with real-world examples and Islamic ethics.

• Reflect on their progress and set goals for continuous improvement.

Most subjects are taught in mixed-ability classes to promote confidence, equity, and a supportive classroom culture.

Personal, Social & Character Development

Character education (tarbiyyah) sits at the heart of Key Stage 3. Through assemblies, mentoring, form-time activities, and enrichment opportunities, pupils develop:

• Strong manners and communication skills.

• Empathy, respect and emotional wellbeing.

• A sense of service, responsibility and Islamic identity.

• Leadership and teamwork skills.

Our aim is to support pupils in becoming well-rounded young Muslims who are spiritually anchored, socially responsible, and ethically aware.

Our Vision for Key Stage 3

We believe that the KS3 years are a crucial stage in shaping pupils into confident, reflective, and principled young people. At ILM High School, every child is encouraged to strive for excellence in their studies, embody Islamic character and build the foundations needed to thrive in Key Stage 4 and the wider world guided by purpose and faith.