Upper School

Building a foundation of accelerated success

Le Fort combines STEM project-based learning with English National Curriculum taught by skilled native English teachers offering the most dynamic secondary education in Moscow, RF.

Project-Based Learning

The Upper School syllabus at Le Fort uses a process-oriented approach to help students establish connections across the disciplines and attain objectives for each course. Students learn to collect and analyze data, conduct literature searches, and prepare essays and presentations through long-term independent scientific research.

Science Studies

The Science introductory course equips students with a strong basis for advanced studies at the A Level course while offering personalised guidance and support.

Laboratory centered, the Science courses expose students to methods of scientific inquiry and elementary analysis. Course design requires students to develop a solid background in the conceptual basis of Physics, Biology and Chemistry as well strong critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Physics – thesyllabuscentres onthe topics of mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves and oscillations.

Biology - the syllabus focuses on cellular processes found in living organisms, (metabolism, cell cycle, cell structure and function), genetics, biological basis of evolution and ecology. A number of laboratory works is an integral part of this course.

Chemistry – the syllabus focuses on the study of the structure, behavior and properties of matter, and is based on laboratory works and problem solving.

Algebra, Geometry, Statistics

The Foundational mathematics course is divided into separate blocks of Algebra, Geometry and Statistics. Algebra topics include operations with sets, the logic of quantified statements, valid and invalid arguments, proof by contradiction, proof by mathematical induction, operation on algebraic fractions, powers, equations and inequalities, linear equations, systems of linear equations etc. Geometry topics include deductive reasoning, angles, lines, polygons, circles, congruent and similar figures, congruence and similarity theorems etc.

English and Language Arts

The course includes the subjects of English and English Literature, and two modern foreign languages - French and Russian. For Russian nationals, Russian is delivered according to the state Russian curriculum.

Students have a daily English lesson which includes a balance of whole class experiences, small flexible group instruction, paired work and independent practice opportunities. Students are formally and informally assessed throughout the year which allows for specific learning needs to be met.

Students improve their understanding of grammar and punctuation, spelling, sentence structure, and paragraphing in varied and frequent writing assignments. Through essay writing, students build on their understanding of writing as a process. They are taught the stamina and skills to write at length across a range of genres including explanations, narratives, descriptions, comparisons, summaries and evaluations. Writing across all subjects provides students with opportunities to consolidate their skills and knowledge.

Students are provided with the opportunity to develop their speaking and listening skills across all subjects and are taught to speak clearly and convey ideas using subject appropriate vocabulary. Communication skills are further developed through listening to and practising oral presentations, drama sessions and various project works.

Students read and analyse a balance of classical literature and nonfiction texts, exploring the characteristics of different forms and techniques which authors use to achieve their intended purpose. Students are encouraged to read books of their choice from the comprehensive school library where they may find a range of fiction and non-fiction books at different levels.

Children can also access the online library in school or at home.

Humanities: World History and World Geography

The LF Upper School World History syllabus surveys the global human experience from early civilizations to the modern era, emphasizing historical thinking, analysis of primary sources, and global interconnectivity. Core Course Objectives are to develop historical thinking, build skills in analyzing evidence, evaluating source credibility, and constructing historical arguments.

The LF Upper School World Geography syllabus explores the physical and human systems of the earth, focusing on how environment, culture, and economies interact across global regions.

Core Course Topics:

• Physical Geography: Study of landforms, climate patterns, ecosystems, plate tectonics, and water cycles.
• Human Geography: Examination of world population distribution, migration trends, urbanization, and cultural landscapes (languages, religions, and traditions).
• Economic and Political Systems: Analysis of natural resource distribution, global trade links, industrialization, and political divisions.
• Regional Studies: Detailed investigation of major world regions, including North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.

Core course objectives are to develop the students in map and spatial literacy, ability to read topographic maps, analyse global data charts, and understand geographical terms, use digital mapping tools and internet data, assess human impact on the environment and contemporary global issues.

Information Technology and Computer Science

ICT includes an advanced level of robotics and computer coding. Students will also be introduced to computer graphics, Graphical User Interfaces (GUI), data storage and data processing.

GCSE Course

Year 9 (age 13–14) serves as a transition year to GCSE course. Students finalise their studies in a broad secondary school curriculum and choose their specific GCSE option subjects (such as foreign languages, design and technology or arts) during the spring term.

Years 10 and 11 (ages 14–16) form the core two-year linear study programme where students intensely focus on their their (i)GCSE examinations. These worldwide recognised exams cover the whole curriculum and form fundamental stages before A-level studies.