This same concern drives the need for constant development and improvement and there are important changes in train. Inevitably the British National Curriculum has the disadvantage that while the targets for attainment are valid, the associated content is not always appropriate to Bermudian needs. This is dealt with through careful, thorough and systematic adaptation. In the primary school the three core subjects of mathematics, English and science constitute the bulk of what is taught. There are also some additions to the range of subjects.
Students study the three separate sciences of biology, chemistry and physics from the fourth year.
This is a particularly challenging form of the examinations and students have to be very able to gain the highest marks. These examinations are well regarded internationally and give a sound start to the preparation for university entrance. Specialist music students have three periods of music per week up to and including S5. The sixth form course begins at age 16 or 17. It can either be a one or two year course depending on university entrance requirements.