Post-Primary Department

There are 5 base classes in the post primary department in Harberton North.  The class sizes vary from 7 to 13, reflecting the needs of the students.  There are generally 3-4 adults in a class team which ensures students can be appropriately supported.  Our students continue to follow the statutory elements of the curriculum: English, Maths and Learning for Life and Work.  Learning for Life and Work is made up of Citizenship, Personal Development, Employability and Home Economics.  We have a dedicated Life Skills teacher with the responsibility for delivering Home Economics to our KS3/4 students.   

There are 2 pathways for students in post-primary: academic and vocational.  The academic pathway is delivered in base classes, with each teacher delivering the curriculum to their students using a range of teaching approaches.  In KS4 the students will begin Entry Level Qualifications in English, Maths and Life Skills with CCEA. The vocational programme has been developed and will begin a full rollout in September 2022 for students from Years 8-10.  KS3/4 students will participate in this vocational programme in either Harberton or at Springvale where they will have the experience of learning at a training organisation.  The vocational programme has been developed to help the students to develop the skills they need to live as independently as possible. 

KS3

In Harberton, pupils transition into Key Stage 3 (Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10), building on the skills and learning acquired in their primary school experience 

Our students have access to the full N.I. Curriculum which is delivered in developmentally appropriate and engaging ways, using new and interactive technologies, resources and classroom practice.

KS4

In Harberton, the students transitioning into KS4 are offered a broad curriculum and have the opportunity to participate in an accreditation and vocational programme in school.

The programme we provide in school provides fully accredited qualifications with a focus on different progression pathways, based on the needs of students.

In our base classes, school based learning consists of accreditation in Entry Level in the following:

• English
• Maths
• Life Skills
• Occupational Studies

Vocational Areas

Vocational accreditation takes place in partnership with Springvale Employment and Learning. Vocational training takes place in the following areas:

• Hair and Beauty
• Barbering
• General Construction
• Catering
• Warehouse work
• Digital Media

Students travel to Springvale on Thursdays and the opportunity to receive training from non-school staff and to meet with students from other schools helps with confidence and social skills.