Our Humanities faculty mainly encompasses the subject areas of Geography, History and RE.
Please see overview of our Geography Curriculum Plans.
The aims of the KS3 Geography curriculum are that students should develop:
The intent is to enable our students to think ‘like a geographer’. Students will develop the skills necessary to conduct enquiries in the classroom and in the field to develop their understanding of specialised geographical concepts and current geographical issues. Student’s experience of Geography at OSA, will enable them to
Please see overview of our History Curriculum Plans.
The KS3 History curriculum aims to inspire students to become well rounded and passionate historians who think critically about the world they inhabit.
As a Suffolk-based school, where diversity is more limited than other areas, students’ beliefs are challenged with questions about the historical development of multiculturalism – both globally and nationally.
To effectively interact with the modern world an understanding of student’s own history, and that of those around them is essential. In their study of history, students consider a range of perspectives and develop the ability to make balanced arguments and well sustained judgements.
They develop an understanding of how our history forms our sense of identity and place in the world, and through studying a range of periods and people, become more empathetic and open-minded.
Through a knowledge-rich curriculum, students gain an in depth understanding of a range of events and issues throughout history, as well as building their historical literacy and conceptual understanding. This ensures students can positively encounter and understand the dynamics of the modern world.
Students learn to ask thoughtful questions and develop independent, analytical thinking as well as a passion for learning, ensuring they complete their history education as thoughtful academics.
Throughout KS3 there are many opportunities to build a foundation of knowledge to help embed knowledge and prepare them for their continued study of History at GCSE and beyond.
To both promote a curiosity about how the study of the past shapes the thinking, actions and values of young people in the present and the future. To support the development of students into confident historians. Students will develop the ability to ask the right questions and use a range of evidence with confidence and produce beautiful work, crafted with pride. Students will be provided with the knowledge and understanding to interpret the world in which they live in order to challenge or support the values of the future.
Students deserve a broad, ambitious and diverse Religious Studies curriculum, allowing them to reflect on their own experiences while also exploring those of others from a range of religions and beliefs.
We want our students to be filled with curiosity and fascination at the world around them; locally, nationally and globally. Religious Studies prepares students for adult life as it promotes the British Values of respect and tolerance for others, whilst also building a curiosity about other societies and cultures. We feel it is important for students to have the opportunity for safe discussion and debate while exploring many other world religions, including Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Sikhism, Islam and Buddhism.
They also learn philosophical ideas and encounter the teachings of smaller faiths and religions, to give a rounded view of belief. Students study religious texts and historical context and research evidence surrounding these. We develop students’ ability to learn “how to know” about religion and non-religion.
Parents/carers should book a meeting with the Principal if they wish to discuss the right to withdraw from RE lessons.