Third Form (Year 9)
Where curiosity begins and character takes root.
The Third Form curriculum is broad and varied, offering a mixture of traditional academic subjects alongside a portfolio of stimulating modern options that lay the foundation for everything that follows. In the Third Form, boys discover how to learn independently, think critically, and engage with the world around them with confidence and curiosity.
Our Curriculum is Built Upon Two Important Principles:
1. Choice
By choosing the subjects they study, boys are inspired, engaged, and motivated. They learn more, faster, and ultimately perform better. Alongside the core curriculum – English, Maths, Science, and Wellbeing & Worldviews – boys shape half their timetable by selecting five subjects from a range of stimulating options. There are no restrictions on combinations. Scholars and High Academic Performers (HAPs) may also take additional subjects off-timetable by arrangement.
2. Skills
The Third Form curriculum is designed to develop 14 core skills, taught through five cross-curricular modules. By working towards shared goals across different subjects, boys build the aptitudes they need to succeed – both as independent learners and as future GCSE students developing the competencies required to thrive.
The Third Form Curriculum
Outside The Classroom
Outside the classroom, boys dive into the full breadth of Sherborne life.
Whether through sport, music, drama, adventure, or House events, they build friendships and a strong sense of belonging. They begin to see themselves not only as members of a House, but as part of a larger, supportive community.
Social activities are run jointly with Sherborne Girls and boys benefit from the interaction and increased opportunities that come from this close partnership.
Click here to hear from the boys themselves about their journey through Third Form.
Third Form RS and Wellbeing
Every pupil in the Third Form takes part in two weekly core lessons of RS and Wellbeing that introduce them to the key beliefs, practices, and worldviews of major religions. The curriculum explores the richness and diversity of religious life, including an in-depth study of Judaism and the challenges faith communities encounter in the modern world. Pupils also examine non-religious worldviews, considering the social and cultural influences that shape them.
Character Education is woven throughout the curriculum, supporting the development of curiosity, good judgement, and critical thinking—qualities recognised by the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues as central to well-rounded personal development. Through philosophical and ethical enquiry, pupils learn to evaluate complex moral issues with integrity and empathy. Studies of Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism, and other worldviews allow pupils to reflect on how different perspectives influence daily life, encouraging open-mindedness and respect.
The department also delivers the Third Form Wellbeing Programme, including statutory Relationships and Health Education. Pupils explore Citizenship and Fundamental British Values, learning about respect, democracy, and the rule of law. These lessons are enriched by visiting speakers who address topics such as healthy eating, online safety, masculinity, and diversity and inclusion - further supporting pupils’ character growth and personal responsibility.
