Overview and Exam System
Learner Pathways
At QVS our aim is to ensure that each and every one of our young people fulfil their academic potential. We offer a rich curriculum that allows all of our pupils an individualised pathway through the senior phase. We strive to develop our pupils academically but also to enrich life skills which are so important beyond QVS.
As a P7- S2 pupil, a broad range of subjects are studied, narrowing to seven subjects in S3. This allows pupils breadth in their curriculum, however, enables a more focused approach to individual strengths as they approach the senior phase of education. Seven subjects are studied in S4, generally at National 4 and National 5 levels.
In S5 all pupils must study five subjects from a wide range of options, we offer Scottish Highers as well as additional qualifications at SCQF levels 4, 5 and 6. As a small school, we are able to tailor bespoke pathways for our pupils to ensure they are able to study the subjects desired. S6 pupils have the choice of studying Advanced Highers in many subjects in addition to the S5 options.
QVS Curriculum
We offer a broad range of traditional subjects with recent additions such as Cyber Security, Travel and Tourism, Media Studies, Classical Studies, Horticulture, Bagpiping, Drumming, Exercise and Fitness Leadership, Practical Woodwork and Metalwork to enable more bespoke experience for our learners.
Many of our senior students take advantage of our close links with Forth Valley College, in Stirling. Our learners are able to study a variety of courses at many levels by attending college one day per week. This is generally for S6 students, however, each learner’s needs are looked at individually, giving a truly flexible pathway through the senior phase.
The QVS curriculum is further bolstered by the Ceremonial aspects of the school, where we place high importance on Piping, Drumming, Dancing and Drill as well as CCF and Sport. Tuesday afternoons give way to Wider Achievement for the Senior Phase students where they have personalisation and choice within the curriculum, choosing to take part in a range of different activities such as Rugby, Hockey, MTB, Volunteering, and The School Newsletter.
Attainment Levels
Academic attainment is far beyond the National average at QVS. In 2024, 87% of our leavers gained three or more Highers (A-C), with 60% leaving with five or more Highers or Advanced Highers (A-C). 83% of our S4 pupils gained five or more qualifications at SCQF Level 5.
In 2024 we have 100% of our leavers in a positive destination, with 68% at University and 11% at college. The remaining leavers are either in employment, an apprenticeship, the Armed Forces or the Merchant Navy.
Academics
