Middle School
For Year 5 to 8 Curriculum Overviews This is intended as a general guide and some topics/texts may change depending on teachers’ choices, current interests and the children’s interests and needs.









Middle School Expectations
At The Independent Grammar School: Durham, we expect all Middle School pupils to take increasing responsibility for their learning, behaviour and contribution to school life. As pupils progress from Year 5 to Year 8, they are encouraged to become confident, independent and respectful young people who demonstrate our school values of Courage, Achievement, Respect and Enjoyment (CARE). Pupils are expected to: • Be prepared – arrive on time, in the correct uniform and with all books, homework and equipment needed for the day. • Be ready to learn – listen carefully, follow instructions, participate positively and always try their best. • Take pride in their work – present work neatly, complete tasks to the best of their ability and respond positively to feedback. • Become independent learners – take increasing responsibility for organisation, homework, deadlines and asking for help when needed. • Show respect – be polite and considerate towards pupils, staff, visitors and members of the wider community. • Behave responsibly – follow school rules, make sensible choices and understand that actions have consequences. • Be kind and inclusive – value differences, support others and ensure everyone feels safe, welcome and included. • Communicate appropriately – use respectful language, listen to others and contribute thoughtfully to discussions. • Look after our school – respect classrooms, equipment and shared spaces and help keep the school environment clean and tidy. • Stay safe – follow safeguarding, online-safety and school procedures and speak to a trusted adult if they are worried about themselves or someone else. • Contribute to school life – take part in clubs, House activities, trips, events and other opportunities wherever possible. • Represent IGS: Durham positively – demonstrate excellent behaviour and manners both in school and when representing the school in the wider community. As pupils progress through Middle School Expectations for independence, organisation and personal responsibility increase each year. By the end of Year 8, pupils should be well prepared for the expectations of Upper School, demonstrating mature behaviour, positive learning habits and the confidence to take greater responsibility for their own progress. Our Middle School expectation is simple: Be prepared. Be respectful. Be your best.
Middle School Expectations
At The Independent Grammar School: Durham, we expect all Middle School pupils to take increasing responsibility for their learning, behaviour and contribution to school life. As pupils progress from Year 5 to Year 8, they are encouraged to become confident, independent and respectful young people who demonstrate our school values of Courage, Achievement, Respect and Enjoyment (CARE). Pupils are expected to: • Be prepared – arrive on time, in the correct uniform and with all books, homework and equipment needed for the day. • Be ready to learn – listen carefully, follow instructions, participate positively and always try their best. • Take pride in their work – present work neatly, complete tasks to the best of their ability and respond positively to feedback. • Become independent learners – take increasing responsibility for organisation, homework, deadlines and asking for help when needed. • Show respect – be polite and considerate towards pupils, staff, visitors and members of the wider community. • Behave responsibly – follow school rules, make sensible choices and understand that actions have consequences. • Be kind and inclusive – value differences, support others and ensure everyone feels safe, welcome and included. • Communicate appropriately – use respectful language, listen to others and contribute thoughtfully to discussions. • Look after our school – respect classrooms, equipment and shared spaces and help keep the school environment clean and tidy. • Stay safe – follow safeguarding, online-safety and school procedures and speak to a trusted adult if they are worried about themselves or someone else. • Contribute to school life – take part in clubs, House activities, trips, events and other opportunities wherever possible. • Represent IGS: Durham positively – demonstrate excellent behaviour and manners both in school and when representing the school in the wider community. As pupils progress through Middle School Expectations for independence, organisation and personal responsibility increase each year. By the end of Year 8, pupils should be well prepared for the expectations of Upper School, demonstrating mature behaviour, positive learning habits and the confidence to take greater responsibility for their own progress. Our Middle School expectation is simple: Be prepared. Be respectful. Be your best.


