NEO’s minimal KS3 offer for Years 7–9, per the Curriculum Rationale v2.0 §8. Built around engagement, not attainment — the purpose is to keep a young person connected to learning, to the Nudge relationship, and to themselves, so that when they reach KS4 they have foundation rather than gap.
Canonical KS3 outcomes are written from the published National Curriculum (Programmes of Study, KS3, 2014). Tagged with NC age-related expectations: developing / secure / mastering.
Strands
- English — Reading and Writing
- Maths — Numeracy and Problem-Solving
- Science — Exploring the Natural World
- Creative Arts
- Humanities
- Digital Literacy
- Physical Education (also serves the Movement Cornerstone)
- CEIAG — Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance
Statutory strand alongside
- RSHE — applies equally to KS3-age learners; lives in its own statutory branch
Cornerstones Electives
The optional weekly elective sessions structured around one Cornerstone (Movement / Rest / Nutrition / Connection) sit in Cornerstones Electives — alongside KS3 NC, not within it.
Transition to KS4
The KS3 → KS4 transition is a readiness conversation, not a year-group change. The same canonical strands extend forward into KS4 where the union of overlays defines what the work counts towards externally.