A broad-based common course of study is pursued in Senior I and II, allowing pupils to develop a wide range of knowledge before they begin the process of specialising in Senior III. They then have the choice of three Modern Languages, as well as the Sciences, Classics, Technology, Expressive Arts and Humanities. With advice from trained pastoral staff, as well as from their teachers - and, of course, parents - pupils choose the subjects which will lead to external Scottish Qualifications Authority examinations. In Senior V pupils focus on four or five subjects at Higher grade from a choice of 19 subjects. Senior VI students study up to three Advanced Highers or opt for a mixture of Advanced Highers and Highers. At Advanced Higher grade, 15 subjects are available, taught in small classes, ensuring a very high level of individual attainment.