Lower School

The Lower School years at Merchant Taylor’ marks the beginning of a rich and rewarding academic journey. For boys in Years 7, 8 and 9, this is a time of exploration – where curiosity is encouraged, new subjects are discovered, and the sheer joy of learning is brought to life every day.

Academic Life in the Lower School

Our Lower School curriculum is deliberately broad, giving pupils the opportunity to try a wide range of disciplines and experiences. Whether it is their first encounter with a new language, a hands-on experiment in the Science labs, or a creative project in the Art studio, the emphasis is on fostering a spirit of adventure in learning.

“In the Lower School, we want every boy to experience the joy of learning. This is a time for broad exploration – trying new subjects, discovering new talents, and developing curiosity. We aim to strike a balance: pupils are stretched academically, but we also want them to have fun and to grow in confidence as learners.”
Dr Jane Evans
Deputy Head Academic

Years 7 and 8: Exploration, Discovery, and a Joyful Start to Learning

All our Year 7 and 8 teachers are subject specialists who deliver engaging and inspiring lessons designed to spark excitement and curiosity. Pupils benefit from studying a wide range of subjects, including:

  • Core subjects: Mathematics, English, Science, Computing, History, Geography, and Religious Studies.
  • Languages: Latin, French, and German.
  • Creative subjects: Art, Design Engineering & Technology (DET), Music, and Drama.
  • PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education): covering topics such as relationships, wellbeing, digital citizenship, and study skills.

This broad and balanced curriculum provides plenty of academic stretch and challenge where appropriate, while ensuring that learning remains enjoyable and engaging. We want boys to develop the skills and knowledge that will prepare them for the future – but above all, to foster a lifelong love of learning.

Above all, the Lower School experience at Taylors’ helps boys to develop confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning that will stay with them throughout their time here and beyond.

Year 9: Growing Independence and Academic Challenge

The start of Year 9 marks an important step in each boy’s academic journey at Merchant Taylors’. At this stage, pupils are encouraged to take greater ownership of their learning and begin to challenge themselves beyond the core curriculum.

As they prepare for the transition to GCSE courses, boys develop greater independence and maturity in their approach to study, supported by expert teaching and a strong pastoral framework. They continue to enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum, with increasing opportunities to tailor their learning to reflect their personal interests and strengths.

Pupils continue to study a wide range of core subjects, including:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Biology, Chemistry, Physics
  • Computer Science
  • Geography
  • History
  • Religious Studies
  • Art & Design
  • Design & Technology
  • Physical Education
  • PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)

Alongside these, boys can begin to shape their academic path by selecting optional subjects from a diverse offering, including:

  • Modern Languages: French, German, Spanish
  • Classics: Latin & Greek, Latin, Classical Civilisation
  • Creative & Performance Subjects: Music, Drama, Sports Science

During Year 9, pupils also begin the important process of selecting their GCSE subjects. Choices are guided by each boy’s individual interests, talents, and aspirations – ensuring that they move forward with a programme of study that is both challenging and personally rewarding.

This year is about building the confidence, curiosity, and academic resilience that will serve as the foundation for success in the senior years and beyond.

Scholarship and Enrichment

At Merchant Taylors’, we foster a culture of intellectual curiosity and scholarly ambition well beyond the classroom. Pupils of all ages are encouraged to explore their academic interests through a programme of enrichment activities and competitions. Opportunities include participation in national events such as Maths and Science Olympiads, creative writing and essay competitions, inter-house competitions, public speaking, and debating. These activities not only stretch and inspire our most able pupils but also help to cultivate a spirit of independent thinking, creativity and academic resilience – qualities that lie at the heart of our ethos.

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Academic Ethos & Curriculum

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