Academic

The Junior School Curriculum is broad, exciting, and ambitious, designed to spark curiosity and challenge students. Academic rigour is balanced with creativity, ensuring that pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to achieve their potential. From specialist teaching to outdoor exploration, from immersive projects to service in the community, pupils enjoy an education that is both inspiring and purposeful. 

Specialist teaching and resources 

In Years 3 and 4, pupils receive much of their teaching in academic subjects from their form tutors. As the boys move through the Junior School, they are taught by a growing number of subject specialist staff. Within a broad and balanced range of teaching, we place great emphasis on the core subjects, with Mathematics and English taught every day and a generous allocation of both time and resources given to the teaching of Science.

Pupils benefit from high-quality learning resources and specialist teaching spaces. Weekly lessons in Art, Design & Technology, Music and Science make use of bespoke Junior School spaces. Pupils’ learning is further enhanced through access to Senior School facilities, including sports grounds, the Edward Alleyn Theatre and The Auditorium, among others. 

Technology and digital literacy 

Every pupil has a personal iPad, used across subjects to extend learning and encourage creativity. Technology is integrated thoughtfully into the curriculum, enhancing outcomes while building the digital literacy that pupils will need for the future.

Forest School

Forest School is an important part of the Junior School experience. Whether in our own on-site space or the nearby Dulwich and Sydenham Woods, pupils explore the natural world in all seasons. These sessions develop collaboration, resilience and an appreciation of nature, while also supporting academic and personal growth.

Academic Enrichment

Pupils carry out independent research projects throughout their time in the Junior School, gaining confidence as inquirers and presenters, and allowing freedom to deepen knowledge and understanding in areas they are interested in. In Year 6, pupils undertake The Great Exhibition, a cross-curricular project based on the UN Global Goals. This capstone experience develops critical thinking, creativity and independence, giving pupils ownership of their learning. 

London’s museums, galleries and theatres provide rich opportunities to extend and enrich classroom learning, with regular trips in each year group. All pupils enjoy an annual workshop with the Young Shakespeare Company, which brings the plays vividly to life and inspires learning in English lessons.  

Our Academic Enrichment Symposium is a highlight of the year, where pupils join with JAGS and Dulwich Wood Primary for a day of workshops, speakers and collaborative projects, sparking new interests and passions. 

Regular College-wide Academic Enrichment events, such as Eco Week and Mental Health Awareness week, also provide opportunities for learning beyond the curriculum. 

Service learning and community partnerships 

Each year group partners with a local charity or organisation, giving pupils meaningful opportunities to serve others. Whether visiting a foodbank, supporting Guide Dogs, or hosting a Christmas party for local care home residents, pupils learn empathy, responsibility and the value of giving back to the community. 

Collaboration with local schools 

We enjoy close partnerships with Sydenham High School and James Allen’s Girls’ School Prep. Pupils come together termly for collaborative events, from philosophy and debating to art, technology, team-building and multi-sports. These experiences broaden perspectives and nurture friendships beyond our own school community. 

Preparing for the future 

Our expectation is that all parents will want their sons to continue into the Lower School (Years 7 and 8). We therefore prepare the boys for the same examination that will be taken by external applicants in December of Year 6.  

The Junior School equips pupils with the skills and attitudes they need for lifelong learning. By the time they move on at 11+, they are organised, independent and confident. They are articulate and aspirational, with a broad and deep knowledge base. Most importantly, they are positive, curious and respectful learners, ready to thrive in the next stage of their education.