English
We attach great importance to the teaching of English. Children are taught to listen carefully and are encouraged to develop fluency and confidence in talking by discussion and drama. Many opportunities for speaking to an audience are provided.
Children are taught carefully and systematically to develop the skills and vocabulary they need
to read with fluency and understanding. The children learn the sounds of letters and the
basic words. Each child has an individual reading programme and is encouraged to take
the reading book home when they are 'reading ready'. A homework diary enables parents
and class teacher to communicate and comment on their child's home reading. A core reading scheme is used in the school and additional reading books are also used to support and develop children's reading skills. Each class
has its own stock of library books in addition
to the two libraries. Children have a library time weekly. |
Visits from writers and poets are arranged and these encourage children to enjoy writing.
Handwriting is taught from the reception class onwards using the Nelson Handwriting Scheme, which begins with simple letters, then adds an upward flick, which later develops into a clear legible cursive style.
The school follows the National Literacy Framework for teaching English as its scheme of work and the planning is in line with the framework |
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Mathematics
A large part of mathematical work is practical, especially in the early stages. Computation in the four rules of number is important and is linked to work in measurement, sets, shape, problem solving and graphical representation. As problem solving and investigation work draws all these skills together meaningfully. A variety of commercial materials are made available to give flexibility and different opportunities of learning for the children. Applying mathematical skills to real life situations is very important throughout all age groups.
Provision is made for those children who need extra support or extension work. The National Numeracy Framework is covered in the daily numeracy lessons.
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Information and Communication Technology
ICT is a continually developing area in school. The ICT suite houses 16 computers, a projector and a whiteboard for whole class teaching. All classrooms are now equipped with interactive whiteboards.
Pupils use either the suite or the classroom computers to develop skills outlined in the QCA scheme of work. Children are taught the basic skills on a progressive plan using software packages which enable development to take place |
This involves:-
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using information sources and ICT tools to solve problems
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using software packages to support learning in a variety of contexts
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understanding the implications of ICT for working life and society |
Science
Children are offered a planned, progressive range of scientific experiences beginning with things familiar to them from everyday life and in the school environment. They are taught to approach problem solving through scientific methods and to understand the application to everyday needs and situations. We encourage children and parents to work together with a variety of projects, for example,Science Week.
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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
As a Catholic school, we attach the greatest importance to Religious Education in the life of our school. This not only applies to specific RE lessons, but in the everyday activities of school life - assemblies, meal times and play times. We try to help children to find a personal faith in God and to enjoy a sense of awe and wonder at His creation. We teach tolerance and respect for other faiths/races to prepare our children to become good citizens.
In common with other schools in the Diocese, the school follows the 'Here I Am' Religious Education Programme. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from RE Corporate acts of worship and from sex education which does not form part of National Curriculum Science. It should be understood however that Religious Education and Personal Social and Health Education are not confined only to formal Religious Education and science lessons within the Catholic School.
Sacramental Preparation
Preparation for the Sacraments is the responsibility of the Parish and so this takes place in small groups organised by the Parish Priest and his team of catechists. The school supports this preparation in the religious education programme.