Information for Parents - Curriculum

The school is a Church of England voluntary controlled co-educational primary day school, with a Foundation Unit.

Most of the formal teaching takes place in small groups or on an individual basis. The system is very flexible and children are encouraged to progress at their own rate.

We have a firm belief that, if children are to learn to respect their environment they should be surrounded by a rich and varied school environment which demonstrates a respect for the work of the child and which expects them to respect the efforts of others. Displays of interesting objects, living things and children’s work are presented whenever possible. Our team of students, Caretaker, Lunch Supervisors, Teaching Assistant and Secretary also assist with this, making a contribution to the overall appearance and orderliness of the school.

Classes follow the whole school approach, introducing concepts and skills as the children progress and develop through the school. The National Curriculum Foundation Subjects are included in project work or receive individual attention, as with Music, Religious Education, Physical Education and Swimming.

In order to consolidate learning and give structure to Mathematics, the Heinemann Mathematics for Key Stage One and Two, are used and related to the programmes of study in the National Curriculum. We also follow the National Numeracy Strategy.

Reading is introduced using several integrated reading schemes, concerning both visual memory skills and phonic work. Pupils are introduced to sounds through ‘Jolly Phonics’. Children are encouraged to develop a keen interest in books and a good choice of reading material is offered to the early independent reader. Much time is devoted to encouraging creative writing, from the emergent writing of the reception children, to independent recording and story writing in later years. We refer to the guidance of the National Literacy Strategy.

Reading nightly at home is encouraged, as is the reinforcement of tables and spelling.

Children are encouraged to participate in discussion and express their ideas, gaining a sense of value in their own and others’ contributions. Our aim is to provide a well balanced and stimulating approach where the foundations of learning are established with care for the individual child and the special needs they present.

On occasions children may be given homework, particularly in English and Mathematics, especially in the Juniors.

Project work is planned to cover the requirements of the National Curriculum.

Parents are always welcomed to visit and assist in activities. They are also welcome to help as escorts on school trips.

Knowledge and interest in the environment are further extended through educational visits. When possible and relevant, visitors are invited to the school to contribute to the children’s experience.

We invite parents into school during school hours to half-termly sharing assemblies presented by the children. This allows parents to see for themselves the work the children are doing and be involved in school life.