Curriculum

The range of subjects on offer is extensive. On-site, our pupils have access to a very wide range of GCSE, AS and A- level courses, which extends beyond the statutory requirements.

Ballymena Academy provides a wealth of learning experiences and opportunities which equips pupils with relevant knowledge, understanding and skills to become successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors.
 

Continual Improvement Process

 
The curriculum is reviewed annually and is shaped to meet the needs, abilities and interests of our young people. In addition to the comprehensive range of subjects in the arts, environment and society, languages, learning for life and work, sciences and technology , recent additions such as Mandarin, Software Systems Development, Sports Science and the Active Leisure Industry, Engineering, Government and Politics and customised skills development courses, have brought the school acclaim for its innovative approach to curriculum design.

Ballymena Academy ranks as one of the top performing schools in the country, with results at GCSE and A Level consistently exceeding Northern Ireland Grammar School averages.

Learning Intentions, Tracking Pupil Progress

 

Pupils should recognise the importance of every lesson. Academic progress is monitored closely and effective use is made of baseline data on entry to the school which allows challenging personalised targets to be set and monitored. Common Assessment Tasks are recorded on an electronic tracking system to ensure pupils are progressing and to target additional learning support.

Pupils are shown how to focus on the learning process as well as outcomes. Information is shared with learners through learning intentions and agreed success criteria. There are opportunities for active learning, peer and self assessment and self-evaluation.

ALIS and Midyis programmes bench-mark public exam results against a sample of UK schools. Together teachers, pupils and parents devise enabling strategies which strengthen commitment, enhance learning and improve achievement.

Pupil endeavour and success is recognised and celebrated in the classroom and through internal bulletins, school websites and magazine, Assemblies, Achievement Awards, Prize Day, local and regional Media.