Curriculum Overview
In the first years of secondary school, Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 & 9) is a crucial period in the academic and personal development of young people. It is during this stage that students build on the knowledge and skills acquired at the primary level and begin to form the foundation for more focused study in later years.
At Montana International School Uganda (MISU), we recognize the importance of these years in shaping both the intellectual and emotional growth of our learners. Our aim is to provide a well-rounded and engaging curriculum that nurtures curiosity, encourages independent thinking, and helps students develop a sense of responsibility for their own learning.
Years 7,8 & 9
Subjects Offered
At MISU , the Key Stage 3 curriculum offers a balanced mix of core and optional subjects, fostering exploration, skill development, and well-rounded growth to prepare students for Key Stage 4.
The subjects that students study in Years 7, 8, and 9 are:
Compulsory Subjects
These are the essential subjects that form the backbone of our academic program at Key Stage 3:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Science
Optional Subjects
To support the development of a well-rounded learner, we also offer a diverse range of optional subjects:
- History
- Geography
- French / Kiswahili
- Music
- Physical Education Information
- Information snd Communication Technology (I.C.T)
- Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)
Weekly Subject Allocation
To ensure a well-rounded and progressive learning experience, students in Key Stage 3 follow a structured weekly timetable that balances core academics with creative, physical, and personal development. The table below outlines the number of hours allocated per subject, per year group, across Years 7, 8, and 9.
| Subject | YEAR 7 | YEAR 8 | YEAR 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Mathematics | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Science | 3 | 3 | 6 |
| Geography | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| History | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| French/Kiswahili | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Art | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Life (PSHE) | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Music | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Physical Education | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| ICT | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| TOTAL LESSONS PER WEEK | 20 | 23 | 23 |
Notes:
- At KS4, all core subjects are set by ability
- Option groups are largely mixed-ability, with some settings available if there is more than one group in an option block.
- All lessons are 45 minutes in length and there are 25 lessons per week.
Key Stage 3 Highlights
Building strong foundations for future academic success
Personal Development
Students experience a wide range of subjects to discover their strengths and interests before specializing in Key Stage 4.
Broad Curriculum
Students experience a wide range of subjects to discover their strengths and interests before specializing in Key Stage 4.
Science Focus
Increased science hours in Year 9 prepare students for the rigors of IGCSE science courses in Key Stage 4.