Amedeo College Lower Secondary

Ages 13 - 15

Lower Secondary — Grades 7 to 9 — is the bridge between primary school and the Cambridge IGCSE programme. At Amedeo College, this is a pivotal stage: one where learners consolidate their academic skills, develop genuine subject expertise, and build the study habits and resilience they will need for IGCSE.

Cambridge Lower Secondary provides a structured, internationally recognised framework that challenges learners intellectually while giving our specialist teachers the flexibility to adapt delivery to the needs of each individual. Subject learning becomes more specialised at this stage, and learners are supported to engage more deeply with the content that interests them.

For our neurodiverse learners, Lower Secondary also involves important conversations about self-advocacy. We help teenagers understand their learning profiles, communicate their needs effectively, and build the emotional intelligence to navigate the social and academic demands of secondary school life.

Lower Secondary Curriculum - Strengthening subject depth and critical thinking

At Amedeo College, our phased Cambridge Primary approach gives each child the freedom to learn at their own pace. If a student needs extra time to build confidence in a subject, they can revisit earlier Grade or Stage 4 content to strengthen their foundation — even while officially enrolled in Stage 5. At the same time, they can advance to Stage 6 content in subjects where they show strong aptitude or interest. This personalised model ensures that every learner receives the right level of challenge and support, helping them progress with confidence across all subjects.

Stage 7

English
Literature analysis, advanced writing, comprehension, grammar, and critical engagement with diverse texts.

Mathematics
Algebra, geometry, statistics, and problem-solving, building the mathematical foundations for Stage 8–9.

Science
Biology, chemistry, and physics with laboratory work, data analysis, and application of the scientific method.

Humanities
Integrated social sciences covering geography, history, and economics with analytical and essay-writing skills.

Music
Music theory, performance, composition, and critical listening across a range of styles and traditions.

Art and Design
Portfolio development, fine art techniques, and design principles supporting individual creative growth.

Computing and Digital Literacy
Programming, digital tools, data literacy, and responsible technology use in an evolving world.

First Additional Language
Strengthening grammar, comprehension, writing, and oral communication in the first additional language.

Stage 8–9

English
Cambridge Lower Secondary English developing advanced reading, writing, and critical thinking in preparation for IGCSE.

Mathematics
Extended algebra, trigonometry foundations, geometry, and statistics building towards Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics.

History
South African and world history, source analysis, essay writing, and development of historical thinking and empathy.

Geography
Physical and human geography, environmental studies, and sustainability from a South African and global perspective.

Economics
Introduction to economic principles, markets, and application of economic thinking to real-world issues.

Physical Education
Structured sport, physical fitness, health education, and development of lifelong active habits.

Computing
Advanced programming, digital systems, data management, and information technology in an academic context.

Second Additional Language
Building literacy, vocabulary, oral expression, and written skills in a second additional language.