Senior School
At Frewen College, our Senior School provides a specialist learning environment where students with dyslexia, dyscalculia and related learning differences can realise their potential, achieve academic success and develop the confidence to shape their own future.
Based in our purpose-built teaching block, students benefit from excellent facilities, including science laboratories, an auditorium, specialist teaching rooms, two ICT suites and a quirky reading nook. Classrooms are equipped with assistive technology and multisensory learning resources to help students engage fully with their education.
A key feature of our approach is our small class sizes. Combined with highly trained specialist staff, this allows us to provide personalised support and teaching strategies tailored to each student's strengths, challenges and learning needs.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Students in Key Stage 3 follow a broad and balanced curriculum based on the National Curriculum. Alongside core subjects, additional English and literacy support is built into the timetable, with access to learning support and therapy where required.
Our specialist dyslexia education approach helps students strengthen essential literacy, organisation and study skills, enabling them to become confident, independent learners.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
At Key Stage 4, students study English, Mathematics and Science, alongside a range of option subjects and a programme of PSHE, Games and Literacy.
We understand that many students join Frewen College having experienced challenges in other educational settings and may be working below age-related expectations in English and Mathematics due to dyslexia or dyscalculia. Our flexible qualification pathways allow students to work towards the most appropriate outcomes for their individual needs and future aspirations.
Qualifications available include:
- GCSEs
- BTEC Level 2 qualifications (equivalent to GCSE grades 9-4)
- BTEC Level 1 qualifications (equivalent to GCSE grades 1-3)
- Functional Skills qualifications
- Entry Level qualifications
- Bespoke combinations of the above
While many students complete GCSE English and Mathematics in Year 11, others may follow stepping-stone qualifications before progressing to GCSE when they are ready, including during Sixth Form if appropriate. This personalised approach helps students achieve success at the right pace.
GCSE Options and Creative Subjects
Option subjects vary each year based on student demand but typically include:
- Art
- History
- Geography
- Media Studies
- Design and Technology
- Food and Nutrition
- ICT
Creative subjects are particularly popular, with many students choosing Art and Design, Music and Drama. These subjects provide valuable opportunities for self-expression, creativity and confidence-building, enabling students to showcase their strengths beyond traditional academic measures.
Technology plays a central role in learning at Frewen College. Many of our students excel in ICT, and assistive technology is embedded across the curriculum.
Homework is carefully structured to develop responsibility and independent learning. Students in Years 7 to 9 typically receive homework in one subject each evening, while Key Stage 4 students are set homework in two subjects. Homework clubs are available to provide additional support in a supervised environment.
Preparing students for life beyond school is an important part of our Senior School programme. In Year 10, students receive careers guidance and participate in work experience opportunities, helping them explore future education and career pathways.
Year 11 includes mock examinations and preparation for external assessments, alongside support with next-step planning. Students can continue their education at Frewen College Sixth Form or explore opportunities beyond Frewen, equipped with the skills, qualifications and resilience to thrive.
We have watched her go from a quiet uninterested little girl to now being alive! The transformation is almost magical and we are so pleased, I can't put it into words!
Parent of Year 7 Student
We are glad that Amari has, at long last, found a school where he feels welcomed and valued.
Parent of Year 10 boarder
Senior school literacy is supported across all subjects in the curriculum, with multi-sensory teaching methods, assistive technology and adaptive resources. In the lower years, core subjects, along with a range of options, are taught in small classes by teachers familiar with the child’s profile. ‘Part of it is being so small, they know exactly who my daughter is,’ said one mum.
The Good School Guide, 2026
The best way to understand Frewen College is to experience it for yourself.
Meet our staff, tour our beautiful campus and learn more about our specialist provision.
We would be delighted to welcome you to our next Open Morning. More details here.
