Secondary & Pre-University

STAGE DESCRIPTION

KS3 (AGES 11-14)

KS4 (AGES 14-16)

Pre-University (AGES 16-18)

STAGE DESCRIPTION

From 11 to 18 years - Adolescent development

Throughout this critical period, early adolescents are developing into young adults are developing socially and emotionally and finding their place in the world. They are growing socially and emotionally and finding their place in the world. Students will be experiencing many physical and emotional changes, so it is an opportunity to help them grow into responsible, independent, resilient adults.

Our Educational Philosophy

At the heart of Imagine Montessori’s Secondary school lies a commitment to nurturing innovation and fostering a love for learning that transcends traditional boundaries. We believe that education is not only about acquiring knowledge but, inspiring a deep-seated desire to achieve, explore, and grow as individuals. By encouraging students to think critically, challenge assumptions, and embrace diverse perspectives, we aim to shape open-minded global citizens who are equipped with the transferable skills needed to thrive in an rapidly evolving world.

Celebrating Unity and Diversity

As a developing international community, we are proud to celebrate both unity and diversity. Our school brings together students from various cultural, linguistic, educational and social backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that enhances learning. We believe that by appreciating and respecting our differences, we can build a more cohesive and empathetic community. Our students learn to see the world through multiple lenses, fostering an environment where inclusivity and mutual respect are at the forefront.

Removing Barriers to Learning

We recognize that each student’s learning journey is unique. To support this, we provide a range of targeted actions to remove barriers to learning and personal growth. Through these actions, we aim to create a learning environment where every student can fully engage, grow, and succeed to their fullest potential. These can include:

Individual learning plans for students who require additional academic support, including differentiated lessons;
Access to specialist staff, such as psychologist and learning specialists, career counselors, and wellbeing advisors, to assist with emotional, social, or cognitive challenges.
Regular progress monitoring and feedback to identify and address any challenges early, ensuring timely interventions.
Inclusive extracurricular activities designed to engage all students, regardless of ability, and to foster a sense of belonging and participation.
Ongoing staff training in inclusive teaching practices and mental health awareness, so that all educators are equipped to support diverse learning needs.

Innovative Learning Environments

Our classrooms are more than just spaces for instruction. We constantly strive to develop learning to engage students in meaningful ways. Our learning environments are designed to be flexible and adaptive, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. By offering a window on the world, we empower our students to connect with global issues, understand different cultures, and develop a broader worldview.

Our secondary campus, located in the La Pinada space neighbouring our Primary building, has been developed to make the most of its unique location surrounded by and connected to nature.

Our purpose built and uniquely designed Secondary building is currently under construction and is due to open in September 20227, providing us with much more flexible space and the best facilities to support our talented team of experienced teachers.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

We believe learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. To nurture curiosity and a love of learning, we provide opportunities such as:

Project-based learning and hands-on experiences that connect lessons to real-world applications.
Clubs, competitions, and passion projects that allow students to explore their interests beyond the curriculum.
Independent research and inquiry tasks, encouraging students to ask questions, test ideas, and solve problems.
Mentorship and guidance programs that help students set goals, reflect on progress, and take ownership of their education.
Regular reflection on learning, helping students develop resilience, adapt to challenges, and celebrate achievements.
Oracy, collaboration, and presentation opportunities through debates, group projects, public speaking, and student-led events, helping students develop confidence, teamwork, and the ability to express ideas clearly.

Through these actions, we aim to instil not just knowledge, but curiosity, confidence, and the skills to keep learning throughout life.

Together, We Achieve More

At Imagine Secondary, education is a collaborative effort. We work closely with students, parents, teachers, and the broader community to create a supportive and empowering environment. Together, we strive to cultivate a spirit of curiosity, innovation, and compassion that will serve our students well into the future. By working in unison, we can break down barriers, embrace diversity, and equip our students with the skills and mindset they need to become responsible and engaged global citizens.

Holistic Education

British Education System with a Montessori Approach

We proudly follow the British education system, renowned for its rigour and comprehensive approach to learning. However, we go beyond the traditional curriculum by enriching our students’ educational experience with Montessori Methodology which gives opportunities that stimulate their social, moral and economic development. This approach ensures that our students are not only academically proficient but also well-rounded individuals who are prepared to engage with the world around them.

Commitment to Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the high standards of teaching and learning that we uphold at all levels. We ensure that our educators are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to deliver the highest level of education which puts students as humans at the centre of our approach.

Meeting Spanish Curriculum Requirements

While we follow the British educational framework, we also fully comply with the requirements of the Spanish curriculum. This dual compliance allows our students to obtain prestigious British qualifications while also ensuring that their studies are recognized by Spanish educational authorities. By offering a curriculum that meets the standards of both systems, we provide our students with the flexibility to pursue further education and career opportunities within Spain, the UK, or internationally.

Key Stage 3: Years 7, 8 and 9 - Early Adolescence

Key Stage 3 marks the beginning of Secondary education, a critical phase where students transition from primary learning into a more specialised and in-depth exploration of subjects. During these three years, students benefit from having specialist teachers for each subject, ensuring that they receive expert instruction tailored to the content and skills required in each area of study.

In addition to subject-specific teachers, each student is supported by a dedicated tutor who provides ongoing guidance and mentorship. The tutor plays a vital role in monitoring students’ overall well-being and academic progress, offering personalised support to help them navigate the challenges of Secondary education.

At Key Stage 3, students engage with a broad and varied curriculum designed to provide a strong foundation across a wide range of subjects. This stage is crucial for developing essential skills and a solid base of subject knowledge that will support their learning in the years to come. The curriculum is structured to encourage intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning, ensuring that students are well-prepared to make informed choices as they progress through their educational journey.

Production & Exchange

Students also take part in hands-on, collaborative learning projects where they design, iterate, produce, and exchange goods and services. Through these experiences, they engage in a microeconomy, developing practical skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, while seeing how their work contributes to the wider school and local community. This approach helps students understand the value of collaboration, creativity, and initiative in real-world contexts.

Key stage 4: Years 10 and 11

Key Stage 4 represents the final phase of compulsory Secondary education, where students begin to focus more closely on their academic and career interests. During these two years, the curriculum shifts to allow greater personalization, with students having the opportunity to choose optional subjects that align with their passions, strengths, and future aspirations.

Throughout Key Stage 4, both teachers and tutors work closely with students to ensure they develop the skills and habits necessary for success beyond Secondary education. This includes fostering good study habits, promoting self-discipline, and encouraging students to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. Emphasis is also placed on helping students develop the ability to make informed and considered lifestyle choices, manage their time effectively, and balance their academic responsibilities with personal well-being.

At the end of Key Stage 4, students take International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. These are internationally recognised qualifications that assess students’ knowledge and skills across their chosen subjects through a combination of written exams, practical assessments, and coursework. The IGCSE provides a solid foundation for further study at A-level or equivalent pre-university pathways, preparing students for higher education both in the UK, Spain, and globally.

Ultimately, Key Stage 4 is about more than just academic achievement; it is about helping students grow into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the next stages of their lives, whether that be further education, vocational training, or entering the workforce. By the end of Year 11, students are not only equipped with the knowledge and qualifications they need but are also ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, both academically and personally.

Academic subjects

Core IGCSE subjects

English Language
English literature
Mathematics
Science – Combined double award
Spanish as a First or Foreign Language

Optional IGCSE subjects

History
Geography
Art and Design
Music
Drama
Business Studies
French foreign language
Physical Education

Students choose two optional IGCSE subjects.

In Years 9 and 11 we hold personalised meetings with families and students to help guide students with their choices at GCSE & A level.

Other obligatory curriculum subjects

Spanish Social Studies
Valencian Language
PSHEE
Physical Education

Access to Universities: Personalised Support from Year 10

Starting in Year 10, we offer individualised support to help students prepare for higher education. Our dedicated approach ensures that academic and career decisions are tailored to each student’s needs and aspirations.

Work Experience

Year 11 pupils are encouraged to undertake work experience at the end of Year 11. This opportunity allows students to explore a field of their choice, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers.

We recommend that all students do placements outside the school environment to expose students to new professional settings and relationships. This experience is valuable for building practical skills, gaining industry insight, and developing confidence and adaptability for future challenges. At the beginning of Year 11 we hold individual career interviews to help students make informed choices and arrange work experience that is suitable to their future career goals.

Pre-University: Years 12 and 13

We do not simply prepare students to pass exams, we prepare them to manage freedom.

Pre-University encompasses the final two years of Secondary education, where students prepare for higher education or vocational pathways. A rigorous British A-Level education in a personalised, Montessori-informed environment; empowering independent, resilient and entrepreneurial students to access university in Spain or anywhere in the world

Key Features:

Specialised Curriculum: Students focus on advanced subjects through A Levels tailored to their career aspirations and interests.
Preparation for Higher Education: Emphasis is placed on academic rigour and independent study to equip students for university and other higher education opportunities with Spain and Worldwide.
Small class sizes with expert UK-trained teachers: highly personalised instruction, regular individual feedback, and strong relationships that enable teachers to quickly identify needs, stretch high achievers, and provide targeted support where it is most needed.
Career Guidance: Comprehensive support is provided to help students make informed decisions about their future careers, including university applications in Spain, the UK or globally.
Development of Key Skills: Students develop critical thinking, research, and time management skills essential for success in their future academic and professional endeavours.
Personal Growth: Opportunities for student leadership, extracurricular involvement, service to the community, and personal development prepare students for the transition to adulthood and professional life.
Entrepreneurship and Enterprise: distinctively form a core pillar of our educational vision. Through Business Studies and authentic exposure to real venture creation via our connection to Zubi Group and ZubiLabs, students engage with innovation not as theory, but as lived practice. This strengthens critical thinking, initiative and real-world awareness across the Pre-University experience.

Key Aspects:

One-on-One Bespoke Guidance

We provide personalised advice and support from our experienced university guidance team and partners to navigate the path to universities and beyond. A small student community means you’re receiving advice from teachers and professionals that truly know your strengths and aspirations.

Family Collaboration

We work closely with families to ensure that academic decisions align with students’ goals and that they feel secure in their choices for the future.

Intimate classes - Deep understanding

Our A-level classes typically have fewer than 10 students, creating a classroom culture that relies on close student-teacher relationships. Resulting in individual academic mentoring and a collaborative student environment.

Montessori Culture at Pre-University Level

While our curriculum follows UK A-Levels, our culture reflects Montessori principles that put humans at the centre of our approach to education. Our Pre-university students are emerging as young adults and are guided by high expectations:

Self-direction, intellectual curiosity, responsibility for learning, freedom within structure, development of resilience.

Independence Without Neglect

Our small community ensures that each student receives the right balance of support and challenge to thrive. During what can be a demanding, exam-focused stage of their education, no student is left to navigate their wellbeing alone. Instead, our emotionally aware approach provides consistent guidance, rooted in strong relationships and genuine personal investment.

Natural Campus Environment

Our campus is surrounded by wooded areas and open space, providing a calm and focused setting for learning. Students have access to outdoor study areas where they can work independently or in small groups. With a greater degree of freedom to move on and off campus throughout the day, pre-university students learn to manage their time responsibly and make purposeful choices about how and where they work. This environment supports the development of maturity, independence, and self-discipline.

Subjects Offered

List of subjects

Art and Design
Music
Sociology

History

Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics

Business Studies
English Language
French Language and literature
Spanish Language and literature
Physical Education

Dual University Pathway

Navigating the application process to a public Spanish university from a foreign education system can be complex. Our guidance team are here to support students and families when making their academic decisions to ensure they make a competitive applicant.

As part of this we provide opportunities for students in Year 12 and Year 13 wishing to go to a public Spanish University, to additionally study for the Pruebas de Competencias Específicas (PCE). All these subjects (PCE) are taught in Spanish and are taught by subject experts alongside our A-level classes.

University Admission

Spanish University Admissions

Admission to Spanish public university is based on a common application process for all candidates, regardless of the education system studied. University places are allocated according to candidates’ applications and their final score, which is graded on a scale from 0 to 14.

This process requires passing at least three (but preferred 4) A-Level subjects directly related to the chosen degree, and depending on the degree, it may also be necessary to take the Pruebas de Competencias Específicas (Specific Competency Tests or PCEs). Students study for and take 2 PCE exams in the summer of Year 13 to complete their application.

Admission to private Spanish university requires the recognition of a student’s British qualification as equivalent to a Spanish Secondary education. This requires 5 IGCSE and at least 3 A-levels for ‘homologación’. Although many private universities have their own additional entrance exams or requirements, students should research carefully and are provided with frequent guidance to support with this.

UK University Admissions

Admission requires passing at least three A-Level subjects, often the chosen subjects should be directly related to the chosen degree. The grades required for entry vary between universities. All applications are submitted through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), an online application portal linked to Imagine’s university counselling team. Students can apply for up to five university courses and do so during the first term of Year 13 using their Year 12 exam results and predicted grades generated by our experienced teaching staff. Final admission is determined by the end of Year 13 exams published in the summer.

USA University Admissions

A-levels are also recognised directly for admission to universities in the United States. Many universities will accept the end of year 12 report for applications; others will require frequently updated predicted grades generated by our teaching team throughout Year 13.