Charms, Choices, and Curriculum - Designing Your Magical Classes
By Harry Potter
Before you hire your professors—or start auditioning for the next eccentric Potions Master—you need to decide what your students will actually be learning. Every magical school has its own personality, and that begins with the curriculum.
When I think back on my time at Hogwarts, I realize how much the subjects shaped who we became. Defense Against the Dark Arts made us brave, Transfiguration taught precision, and Care of Magical Creatures opened our eyes to wonder. The truth is, what you teach says just as much about your school as how you teach it.
So, let's talk classes.
Start with the core subjects. These are the pillars of magical education—nearly every wizarding school teaches them in some form:
Charms – For all spells great and small.
Transfiguration – Changing the shape of the world, one teacup at a time.
Potions – Brewing everything from healing draughts to temporary invisibility.
Herbology – The study of magical plants (and avoiding the ones that bite).
Defense Against the Dark Arts – An absolute must. Even in peaceful times, this class builds strength and wisdom.
Astronomy – It's more magical than you'd think, especially when the stars whisper secrets.
History of Magic – Preferably not taught by a ghost who drones on, but still important.
Once you've got your foundation, it's time to get creative. Think about your school's philosophy. Are you training battle-hardened spellcasters? Encouraging invention? Fostering harmony with magical creatures?
You might include:
Magical Theory – For students who want to understand the "why" behind spells.
Enchanted Engineering – For building magical objects and structures.
Runes and Ancient Languages – Unlocking the power of magical texts and symbols.
Magizoology – A deeper dive into magical creatures, possibly even with fieldwork.
Divination – If you're brave enough to tackle the mysteries of the future.
Elemental Magic – Control over fire, water, air, and earth, if your staff can handle it.
You could also offer regional or cultural specialties. For example, a mountain-based school might teach ice magic or stonecraft. A sea-based school might offer oceanic spellwork and siren-lore. Your classes can be tailored to your location, your vision, and the kind of wizards you want to send out into the world.
Don't forget to balance theory and practice. Spellcasting is learned with both wand and mind. Offer time for dueling, crafting, group projects, even magical art if you've got the staff for it. Remember: not every young witch or wizard will become an Auror—some will be Healers, Magical Historians, or creators of spellbound poetry.
Once you've settled on your curriculum, you'll be ready to find the right professors to bring it all to life.