St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Welcomefrom
Edward Walker
Headteacher

At St Bernadette’s we pride ourselves on being a vibrant faith community and an ambitious learning community, where everyone is valued and has a part to play. Strong, caring relationships, high expectations and making the most of every opportunity are key features of our school.

We are committed to every child achieving their potential and becoming a confident life-long learner. Our students achieve well. In our school students also grow and develop through the love and teachings of Christ, becoming responsible citizens able to make a positive contribution in society.

Our vision therefore is to provide a successful community of faith and learning that is based on Gospel Values, places the child at the centre and prepares all children to achieve academic and personal excellence.

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Faith life

At St Bernadette we are proud to be a community of Faith & Learning. As a Catholic school we acknowledge how important it is for our pupils to recognise God's loving presence in their daily lives. Our faith is at the centre of all our work at St Bernadette; everyday starts with prayers during staff briefing, assemblies and registration for pupils led by the form tutors and pupils. We cherish our Catholic belief and identity and at the same time seek to ensure that all pupils have an understanding of the diverse religious cultures in Britain today.

We are a caring community; we provide strong pastoral support and our lay chaplain is a presence with whom pupils and staff can talk. At St Bernadette we take Jesus' call to love our neighbours seriously and we regard works of charity as an essential part of Catholic education. In response to this we support local, national and international charities.

OurCurriculum

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  Maths

  Maths

  During the Maths GCSE curriculum, we continue to develop the problem solving skills which pupils will have encountered throughout Key Stage 3.

  In addition to continuing to foster links between maths and real life situations; we also emphasise and highlight careers in which the skills learnt in maths would be central. 

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  English

  English

  English is both a knowledge and skills-based subject. This means that pupils continue to improve their skills in production of written and spoken English, their ability to receive what they read or hear and their ability to write with technical accuracy.

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  Science

  Science

  The overarching aim in the pursuit of scientific competency is to prepare students to be active citizens in the wider world in terms of critical engagement with their environment.

  Our intent is for all students to develop a curiosity and a scientific understanding of the world around them and the ability to think critically about information presented to them.

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  Religious Education

  Religious Education

  The aim of the teaching in Religious Education is to encourage all of our pupils to think about different beliefs in God, challenging questions such as the meaning and purpose of life, and to consider issues of right and wrong.

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  History

  History

  In Edexcel GCSE History you will study Weimar and Nazi Germany, Crime and Punishment in Britain, American West and Elizabethan England.

  If you are interested in how the Modern World has been formed and influenced by past events, if you have an inquisitive mind and can connect ideas together, then you will enjoy this course. This course involves looking at a wide variety of sources from photos, videos and written documents and using them to build up a picture of the past.

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  Geography

  Geography

  We want our students to have a strong sense of time and place, to feel they belong to wider world community, to understand how their local actions can have global consequences. We want them to feel empowered to make positive choices in their lives to help protect and enhance God’s creation, in relation to both nature and culture. We want them to be able to make changes within their communities by understanding the mechanisms of democracy, to become positive citizens with viewpoints that are empathic, tolerant and reflective. We want the students to be able to learn from past mistakes and consider independently a positive future for themselves and the global community. 

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  Modern Foreign Languages

  Modern Foreign Languages

  The Key Stage Four Languages curriculum has been planned to ensure that students are well prepared to meet the demands of the GCSE examination and to continue to study languages later in life if they wish to do so.

  There are opportunities to experience the culture of the country first hand through visits abroad, visiting theatre groups, visits to the local sixth form for cultural enrichment days or to local restaurants.

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  Computing

  Computing

  OCR Computer Science equips students with the required practical and theoretical knowledge that would underpin a career in computer science. The skills of logical thinking, decomposition and algorithmic thinking are applicable to everyday life and will enable students to fulfil their wider personal life journeys. The course covers a wide range of computer science knowledge from the ethics of computers to the understanding of how data is transferred around a network.

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  Information & Computer Technology

  Creative iMedia

  Creative iMedia embeds an expectation of excellence across students’ learning by inspiring students in the development of vocational creative media skills, and providing learners with essential knowledge and transferable skills and tools to improve their learning in other subjects.

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  Business

  Business

  The OCR Cambridge National in Enterprise and Marketing equips students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in either further study or work. The range of taught content is applicable to real business and provides a knowledge base for students to continue in to A-Level, undertake apprenticeships or even start their own business.  

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  Physical Eduaction

  Sports Studies

  Sport is a key theme in education. The need for people to lead healthy and active rather than sedentary lifestyles is increasingly prominent, and this is reflected in the schools curriculum, where physical education and sport remains core. This qualifications seek to build upon this provision.

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  Health & Social Care

  Health & Social Care

  Health and Social Care provides students with the opportunity to acquire key knowledge whilst applying their learning to work related contexts, and to gain the skills they need for further study and employment.

  This is achieved through a course structure that allows students to build on and embed their knowledge and to grow in confidence when putting their learning into practice.  

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  Catering

  Hospitality & Catering

  The Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering has been designed to support pupils in schools who want to learn about this vocational sector and the potential it can offer them for their careers or further study.

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  Art

  Art

  In Art, we acknowledge and celebrate our distinctive place in the curriculum, providing pupils with a creative outlet to express themselves. We are proud to be a practical subject and emphasise the development and mastery of practical skills in our lessons and curriculum. 

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  Product Design

  Product Design

  Design and Technology looks to enable a new generation of pupils that can use creativity and imagination to problem solve for a more sustainable future. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.

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  Textiles

  Textiles

  Design and Technology looks to enable a new generation of pupils that can use creativity and imagination to problem solve for a more sustainable future. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.

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  Music

  Music

  The BTEC Level 2 Music Award has been chosen for the students at St Bernadette Secondary School as it equips them with the knowledge and skills to be successful in either further study or work. The range of taught content is applicable to the Music Industry and provides a knowledge base for students to continue on to A-Level, undertake apprenticeships or a Level 3 qualification. 

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  Drama

  Drama

  Drama at St Bernadette's is a creative and ambitious choice for students. The emphasis is on practical work, especially building confidence in performance. We are also preparing students to complete the AQA GCSE in Drama.

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Our Facebook

Photos from St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School's post On Thursday 3rd April, Year 11 GCSE French students visited Cote brasserie in Bristol to sample typical French dishes and to mark the end of term and all the hard work that has taken place to prepare for the forthcoming examinations.
I was proud to hear the students using their very best French accents to order from the menu and also of how adventurous they were in their menu choices. Various delights were sampled and enjoyed, including a "friture de poissons" ( whitebait), confit de canard gratiné ( shredded duck toast topped with cheese and poached egg), Poulet au bacon ( Chicken in a bacon sauce) and to finish Financier aux myrtilles ( almond and blueberry cake), Mousse au chocolat, not forgetting the "assiette de fromage" ( cheese plate).
It was a joy to spend the evening in the company of such a polite, funny and kind group of students. I was glad to have this opportunity to spend this time with them before they leave us for new adventures at college, they will be missed and I wish them all the very best for the future. Bonne chance!
Mrs Whalley 6 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Yesterday

Student Spotlight – Riley’s Incredible Achievement!
We are incredibly proud to share some amazing news – Riley has been selected to join the Gymnastics England Squad for 2025! 🇬🇧
This means Riley will be representing England in international competitions throughout the year – an outstanding achievement that reflects his dedication, hard work, and talent in gymnastics.
#ProudMoment #GymnasticsEngland #TeamEngland #StudentSuccess #HumbleChampion #RileyRising 24 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Yesterday

Term Focus: Pilgrims of Hope and the Corporal Works of Mercy
This term, we are continuing to focus on the theme of Pilgrims of Hope, which invites our school community to reflect on our role in journeying alongside others, particularly those in need. As part of this reflection, we will be engaging with the Corporal Works of Mercy, specifically the act of "Clothing the Naked". This work calls us to care for those who lack the basic necessities of life, including clothing, offering not only material support but also dignity, compassion, and love to those in vulnerable situations.
Practical Action: Clothing Collection for Charity
To live out this important work of mercy, we are asking students to participate in a clothing collection for a local charity shop. The goal is to collect unwanted clothing that is in good condition, and which can help support those in need. This initiative provides a wonderful opportunity for students to put their faith into action and directly help others in our community.
Key Details:
Collection Dates: The deadline for all clothing donations is 12th May.
What to Donate: We ask that clothing donations are clean, in good condition, and suitable for resale.
Collection Points: Each tutor group will be provided with collection bags, and we encourage students to bring in items throughout the term.
Encouraging Participation: We also invite parents and carers to support their child in this initiative by encouraging participation and, where possible, assisting with donations

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Yesterday

Photos from St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School's post Hot Cross Bun Fun in Year 10!
Our talented Year 10 Food GCSE students have been busy in the kitchen , baking a delicious variety of hot cross buns to celebrate Easter! From the traditional spiced buns with currants to creative twists with chocolate chips, citrus zest and cheese , the results looked (and smelled!) absolutely amazing.
A fantastic way to showcase their practical skills while embracing seasonal traditions—well done, Year 10!
Our talented Year 10 Food GCSE students have been busy in the kitchen, baking a delicious variety of hot cross buns to celebrate Easter! From the traditional spiced buns with currants to creative twists with chocolate chips, citrus zest and cheese, the results looked (and smelled!) absolutely amazing. 5 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Yesterday

Today, we join the Church around the world in mourning Pope Francis's passing. A humble shepherd and tireless voice for peace, mercy, and justice, he reminded us that faith must be lived with compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire our Catholic school community to walk in love, serve others, and follow Christ with courage.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May Pope Francis, who led Your flock with faith and humility,
be welcomed into the joy of Your Kingdom.
Comfort and guide Your Church in this time of sorrow,
and raise up new shepherds to continue his mission of love.
Comfort and guide your Church in this time of sorrow,ve.y, 7 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Yesterday

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 2 days ago

🌅 Easter Sunday Reflection 🌅
He is risen! Alleluia! On Easter Sunday, we rejoice in the Resurrection of Jesus – the heart of our faith and the triumph of life over death. The empty tomb reminds us that hope is never lost and that God’s love is stronger than anything we face.
As we celebrate this joyful day, may the light of the Risen Christ fill our hearts and homes with peace, joy, and renewal.
Wishing our school community a blessed and happy Easter! ✝️ 7 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 3 days ago

🙏 Good Friday Reflection 🙏
Today we pause in silence and reverence to remember the Passion and Crucifixion of Jesus. On Good Friday, we reflect on the depth of Christ’s love, as he gave his life for the salvation of all.
Through the cross, we are reminded that even in suffering, there is hope. May this solemn day lead us to a deeper understanding of God’s mercy and the promise of new life.
Wishing everyone a reflective and prayerful Good Friday. ✝️ 7 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 5 days ago

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