The Year 9 Diploma sits alongside core subjects and gives pupils practical ways to deepen their learning. Through research projects, presentations and wider intellectual work, they grow in confidence, curiosity and independence, building the momentum they need as they move towards Senior School. 

A big part of the Diploma is the STRIDE curriculum, which teaches the school’s core values – Aspire Boldly, Be Yourself, Look Out for Others – through Stewardship, Technology, Readiness, Innovation, Diversity and Economic literacy. Pupils learn these values through real projects and hands‑on tasks rather than theory alone.

STRIDE activities include: 

• Digital literacy and AI skills – helping pupils understand and use technology confidently. 
• £10 Charity Challenge – pupils work in teams to turn £10 into a fundraising idea for Beyond Ourselves, a charity supporting education in Zambia, while building creativity, teamwork and social awareness. 
• STRIDE reading – one book per term, which is discussed to boost communication skills. 
• Independent Research Project (IRP) – pupils choose a topic to explore, research it and present their findings, developing critical thinking and presentation skills.

Together, these experiences mean pupils aren’t just studying for an academic diploma – they’re learning how to think, collaborate and communicate in ways that prepare them for GCSEs and life beyond the classroom.