Curriculum

Curriculum

Heriot’s is known for its academic standards, with learning and teaching firmly rooted in the Scottish tradition

Heriot’s pupils sit Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) exams at National 5 in S4, Higher in S5 and Advanced Higher in S6. SQA qualifications are internationally accepted for university entrance, including by world-leading institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge universities. 

Pupils start in S1 and S2 with a deliberately broad curriculum designed to show them what the world of academic study is all about, giving them the opportunity to find their passions. In S3 and S4 pupils study eight subjects at National 5, sitting their exams at the end of S4. 

The process of  specialisation continues in S5 and S6. Higher and Advanced Highers are studied over one year each, as is typical. We ask pupils to view S5 and S6 as a coherent programme of study that should meet their aims for further study or work after Heriot’s. Most S5 pupils take five Highers. Pupils can often choose subjects not studied at National 5 level as ‘fresh start’ Highers. 

Heriot’s has a unique approach to S6, with a flexible curriculum that lets pupils study a wide range of subjects at a variety of levels. Most Sixth Years study two or three Advanced Higher courses – we strongly encourage all to attempt at least one. Pupils supplement their academic studies with a selection from a very wide range of Interest courses. We also expect and support Sixth Year pupils to participate in Voluntary Service. 

Our Subjects 

The table below shows the subjects currently on offer to Senior Phase pupils. 

Pupils at Heriot’s usually study: 

• 8 National 5 qualifications across S3 and S4. 

• 5 Higher qualifications in S5 

• A mixture of Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications in S6 (usually 4 courses in total). 

In addition, Games, Physical Education and Citizenship classes are taken from Senior 1 to 5. Critical Thinking classes are added to this list from Senior 3 to 5. In Senior 6, pupils follow the General Studies programme.

Choice of subjects

Subjects are organised by blocks in Senior 1 and 2, and chosen from columns for Senior 3 onwards. To see the range of subjects typically available, please see the Information Booklet 2025-26 below.