Great emphasis is laid on acquiring the skills of Literacy, Numeracy and Science. The school has developed an individualised system of reading backed by phonics, and children progress at their very own speed through levels of reading appropriate to their ability. There is a wide choice of reading books at every level. Children use various Mathematics schemes, some by Heinemann, Nelson and Target, as the main spine upon which activities are based, whilst for Science we use the Collins scheme. These are nationally known schemes which ensure progression from one year to the next and are supplemented by materials from other sources ensuring a breadth of mathematical and scientific experiences.
We believe that children should be exposed to a broad curriculum and this is reflected in the variety of subjects on offer including: History, Geography, Religious Education, P.E. and swimming, Games, French, German, Music, Information Technology, Art & Design, and Dance and Drama.
The curriculum is under constant review. Additional instrumental tuition is also available at a separate cost.
In the early years children are with their form teacher for most of the time. As they get older they may expect to receive specialist teaching in some subjects as a preparation for senior schools, where all teaching is in the hands of subject specialists.
The children are taught in small classes and groups of their own age and ability range. Teachers with additional qualifications are available to meet the needs of dyslexic and dyspraxic pupils.
Homework
Homework is integral to the learning process and provides a communication link between home and school. It has been shown to be beneficial to children’s learning as part of the curriculum. Children bring work home from the infant classes onwards. In the early years this may be words to learn, number work, tables and reading.
From about 7 years children bring work home in other subjects and are expected to complete the assignment set and within the time allowed. Clearly they will need support and help in completing some tasks. Older pupils follow a planned homework timetable which is made available to parents for information. Homework often includes revision of work already learned.
Nursery and Young Infants
Children are accepted for entry in the academic year in which they become 4. Nursery and young infants are called Sunbeams and learn both social and academic skills. They learn to read, write and manipulate numbers and participate in various activities. Sunbeams integrate with the whole school through assemblies, music and play. The school closely follows the themes for Early Learning Goals desired by the Department for Education and Skills namely: - Personal and Social Development, Language and Literacy, Mathematics, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Physical Development, and Creative Development.
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