St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Welcomefrom
Edward Walker
Headteacher

At St Bernadette’s we pride ourselves on being a vibrant faith community and an ambitious learning community, where everyone is valued and has a part to play. Strong, caring relationships, high expectations and making the most of every opportunity are key features of our school.

We are committed to every child achieving their potential and becoming a confident life-long learner. Our students achieve well. In our school students also grow and develop through the love and teachings of Christ, becoming responsible citizens able to make a positive contribution in society.

Our vision therefore is to provide a successful community of faith and learning that is based on Gospel Values, places the child at the centre and prepares all children to achieve academic and personal excellence.

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR 360 VIRTUAL TOUR

Faith life

At St Bernadette we are proud to be a community of Faith & Learning. As a Catholic school we acknowledge how important it is for our pupils to recognise God's loving presence in their daily lives. Our faith is at the centre of all our work at St Bernadette; everyday starts with prayers during staff briefing, assemblies and registration for pupils led by the form tutors and pupils. We cherish our Catholic belief and identity and at the same time seek to ensure that all pupils have an understanding of the diverse religious cultures in Britain today.

We are a caring community; we provide strong pastoral support and our lay chaplain is a presence with whom pupils and staff can talk. At St Bernadette we take Jesus' call to love our neighbours seriously and we regard works of charity as an essential part of Catholic education. In response to this we support local, national and international charities.

OurCurriculum

• 

  Maths

  Maths

  During the Maths GCSE curriculum, we continue to develop the problem solving skills which pupils will have encountered throughout Key Stage 3.

  In addition to continuing to foster links between maths and real life situations; we also emphasise and highlight careers in which the skills learnt in maths would be central. 

  Read More

  X
• 

  English

  English

  English is both a knowledge and skills-based subject. This means that pupils continue to improve their skills in production of written and spoken English, their ability to receive what they read or hear and their ability to write with technical accuracy.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Science

  Science

  The overarching aim in the pursuit of scientific competency is to prepare students to be active citizens in the wider world in terms of critical engagement with their environment.

  Our intent is for all students to develop a curiosity and a scientific understanding of the world around them and the ability to think critically about information presented to them.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Religious Education

  Religious Education

  The aim of the teaching in Religious Education is to encourage all of our pupils to think about different beliefs in God, challenging questions such as the meaning and purpose of life, and to consider issues of right and wrong.

  Read More

  X
• 

  History

  History

  In Edexcel GCSE History you will study Weimar and Nazi Germany, Crime and Punishment in Britain, American West and Elizabethan England.

  If you are interested in how the Modern World has been formed and influenced by past events, if you have an inquisitive mind and can connect ideas together, then you will enjoy this course. This course involves looking at a wide variety of sources from photos, videos and written documents and using them to build up a picture of the past.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Geography

  Geography

  We want our students to have a strong sense of time and place, to feel they belong to wider world community, to understand how their local actions can have global consequences. We want them to feel empowered to make positive choices in their lives to help protect and enhance God’s creation, in relation to both nature and culture. We want them to be able to make changes within their communities by understanding the mechanisms of democracy, to become positive citizens with viewpoints that are empathic, tolerant and reflective. We want the students to be able to learn from past mistakes and consider independently a positive future for themselves and the global community. 

  Read More

  X
• 

  Modern Foreign Languages

  Modern Foreign Languages

  The Key Stage Four Languages curriculum has been planned to ensure that students are well prepared to meet the demands of the GCSE examination and to continue to study languages later in life if they wish to do so.

  There are opportunities to experience the culture of the country first hand through visits abroad, visiting theatre groups, visits to the local sixth form for cultural enrichment days or to local restaurants.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Computing

  Computing

  OCR Computer Science equips students with the required practical and theoretical knowledge that would underpin a career in computer science. The skills of logical thinking, decomposition and algorithmic thinking are applicable to everyday life and will enable students to fulfil their wider personal life journeys. The course covers a wide range of computer science knowledge from the ethics of computers to the understanding of how data is transferred around a network.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Information & Computer Technology

  Creative iMedia

  Creative iMedia embeds an expectation of excellence across students’ learning by inspiring students in the development of vocational creative media skills, and providing learners with essential knowledge and transferable skills and tools to improve their learning in other subjects.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Business

  Business

  The OCR Cambridge National in Enterprise and Marketing equips students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in either further study or work. The range of taught content is applicable to real business and provides a knowledge base for students to continue in to A-Level, undertake apprenticeships or even start their own business.  

  Read More

  X
• 

  Physical Eduaction

  Sports Studies

  Sport is a key theme in education. The need for people to lead healthy and active rather than sedentary lifestyles is increasingly prominent, and this is reflected in the schools curriculum, where physical education and sport remains core. This qualifications seek to build upon this provision.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Health & Social Care

  Health & Social Care

  Health and Social Care provides students with the opportunity to acquire key knowledge whilst applying their learning to work related contexts, and to gain the skills they need for further study and employment.

  This is achieved through a course structure that allows students to build on and embed their knowledge and to grow in confidence when putting their learning into practice.  

  Read More

  X
• 

  Catering

  Hospitality & Catering

  The Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering has been designed to support pupils in schools who want to learn about this vocational sector and the potential it can offer them for their careers or further study.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Art

  Art

  In Art, we acknowledge and celebrate our distinctive place in the curriculum, providing pupils with a creative outlet to express themselves. We are proud to be a practical subject and emphasise the development and mastery of practical skills in our lessons and curriculum. 

  Read More

  X
• 

  Product Design

  Product Design

  Design and Technology looks to enable a new generation of pupils that can use creativity and imagination to problem solve for a more sustainable future. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Textiles

  Textiles

  Design and Technology looks to enable a new generation of pupils that can use creativity and imagination to problem solve for a more sustainable future. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.

  Read More

  X
• 

  Music

  Music

  The BTEC Level 2 Music Award has been chosen for the students at St Bernadette Secondary School as it equips them with the knowledge and skills to be successful in either further study or work. The range of taught content is applicable to the Music Industry and provides a knowledge base for students to continue on to A-Level, undertake apprenticeships or a Level 3 qualification. 

  Read More

  X
• 

  Drama

  Drama

  Drama at St Bernadette's is a creative and ambitious choice for students. The emphasis is on practical work, especially building confidence in performance. We are also preparing students to complete the AQA GCSE in Drama.

  Read More

  X

Our Facebook

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 4 days ago

Year 10 Food Tech Students Shine!
Look what we were gifted, Canned Alaska pink salmon from @AlaskaSeafoodUK, delivered by @dfdsgroup – thank you!
Our fantastic Year 10 Food Tech students put their skills to the test, making homemade salmon ravioli from scratch. With 12 cans to prep, cook, and enjoy, the results were absolutely delicious!
#FishHeroes #FoodTech #CookingSkills #SalmonRavioli #FoodTCentre New England Fishmongers
Wild Alaska Seafood 8 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 6 days ago

Photos from St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School's post Year 10 Climate Change Conference Trip
A group of Year 10 pupils studying GCSE Geography had the opportunity to embark on a trip to Bristol University to partake in a Climate Change Conference. The event was filled with insightful workshops and engaging activities that shed light on the pressing issue of climate change and ways we can combat it.
One of the key workshops focused on the importance of expressing emotions connected to climate change and its impacts, and expressing these thoughts and feelings to close friends and family. The pupils made collages from waste materials to highlight some of the most pressing issues. Additionally, another workshop focused on mining and the stakeholders involved. The pupils discussed the social, economic and environmental impacts of mining and how future innovation in technologies will lead to changes within the industry.
One of the key workshops focused on the importance of expressing emotions connected to climate change and its impacts, and expressing these thoughts and feelings to close friends and family. The pupils made collages from waste materials to highlight some of the most pressing issues. Additionally, another workshop focused on mining and the stakeholders involved. The pupils discussed the social, economic and environmental impacts of mining and how future technological innovation will lead to changes within the industry. inspired the students to consider pursuing careers in fields related to climate science! 1 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 6 days ago

Photos from St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School's post Innspiring the Next Generation of Green Leaders! with South Bristol Youth
A group of our students had the fantastic opportunity to meet professionals from AtkinsRéalis who work in various green roles, from Net Zero strategists to project managers and site surveyors overseeing major sustainability projects for multinational companies.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Green Leaders! strong presentation skills and high levels of engagement—standing out compared to other young people they have worked with.
Why does this matter? Green jobs are crucial to shaping a sustainable future. They drive innovation, protect our planet, and create solutions to the environmental challenges we face. By learning from industry leaders, our students are taking the first steps toward making a real impact.
Well done, St Bern’s students! #GreenJobs #FutureLeaders #Sustainability #NetZero 8 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: 6 days ago

Apprenticeships - Network Rail | Careermap POST 16 OPTIONS
Are you interested in kickstarting your career with an apprenticeship at Network Rail?
Network Rail currently has a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available
These apprenticeships offer a fantastic chance to gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills, and build a strong foundation for your future career.
Don't miss out—apply now before the opportunities close!
#https://careermap.co.uk/employers/network-rail/apprenticeships?keywords=&location=bristol&latitude=&longitude=##resultsresults" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://careermap.co.uk/employers/network-rail/apprenticeships?keywords=&location=bristol&latitude=&longitude=#https://careermap.co.uk/employers/network-rail/apprenticeships?keywords=&location=bristol&latitude=&longitude=##resultsresults

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Last week

Primary School Dance Festival
We’re excited to welcome local primary schools to our annual Dance Festival this morning!
It’s going to be a fantastic morning celebrating dance and talent!
#DanceFestival #PrimarySchoolEvent #CelebratingTalent 1 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Last week

Photos from St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School's post Swindon Dance Workshop
We were delighted to welcome Swindon Dance to our school, where they delivered an incredible street dance workshop for students from Key Stage 3 and 4!
The students had a fantastic time developing their skills and confidence through an energetic and engaging session. Swindon Dance also spoke to them about dance opportunities beyond school, sharing valuable insights into future pathways.
Additionally, the company offers free dance sessions and transport, ensuring more students can access amazing dance opportunities.
A huge thank you to Swindon Dance for inspiring our students and opening doors to new possibilities!
The students enjoyed developing their skills and confidence through an energetic and engaging session. Swindon Dance also spoke to them about dance opportunities beyond school, sharing valuable insights into future pathways.
#SwindonDance #StreetDance #InspiringTheFuture #DanceOpportunities 2 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Last week

1 Likes

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School

Posted: Last week

Load More

House Cup

• Charity1920
  
• Faith2125
  
• Hope2133
  
• Peace2091
  
• Verity1868