ENGLISH
Communication of all kinds is encouraged throughout the school; including mime, drama, conversation and the written word.
The school regards learning to read as a major priority. The assistance of parents is sought as children are asked to share their home readers. The school uses the Oxford Reading Tree, the Ginn Reading 360 Scheme and All Aboard as its main core readers. A variety of supplementary books is used for the children to take home.
Children are encouraged to write for a variety of purposes, eg labelling, note-taking, imaginative story-writing, factual reports, poetry etc. Handwriting, spelling and grammar are all regarded as important tools of the author?s trade.
MATHEMATICS
(i) To help pupils understand mathematical concepts, to develop their maths knowledge & skills and to use and apply these to problem-solving;
(ii) To make mathematics an enjoyable experience;
(iii) To help children master the language of mathematics, children readily respond to the challenge of learning technical information;
(iv) To help children to understand mathematical concepts;
(v) To appreciate that children in mathematics, as in any other area of human activity, work at different levels of ability, interest and attainment and that their assignments of work should cater for their individual needs.
(vi) To help children to appreciate that mathematics has a vital part to play in their lives.
NOTE:
(i) The National Numeracy Strategy and the three-part lesson are integral to the maths taught.
(ii) Practical experiences are provided wherever possible to reinforce a process.
(iii) Abacus is used throughout the school as our core Maths Scheme. A variety of other resources is used to reinforce the core scheme.
(iv) Children are encouraged to learn mathematical facts with help from home.
(v) Calculators are used where appropriate to supplement children's work in Years 5 and 6.
(vi) ICT is an integral part of maths.
SCIENCE
We endeavour to ensure a broad and balanced experience for all our pupils. Opportunities will be provided to develop skills and gain an understanding of scientific concepts through first-hand experience in a climate which encourages curiosity, perseverance, open-mindedness, critical reflection and co-operation. We employ a range of teaching methods including whole-class teaching, experiential learning, discovery methods, problem-solving and open-ended investigation.
HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY
Art is an important feature of the curriculum. It provides an enriching personal experience which enables children to express their ideas. Art has a major contribution to make to other curriculum areas and it is often linked to class projects. However, it is a distinct subject; techniques, appreciation and the study of artists are taught throughout the age-range.
Pupils from Year 3 upwards have an opportunity to develop their techniques in the pool at Aqua Vale.
Encourage him/her to share, to take turns sensibly and to respect others.