Curriculum for Years 1 to 6

Children in Classes 1 and 2 (Key Stage 1, infants) and 3, 4, 5 and 6 (Key Stage 2, juniors) follow the 2014 National Curriculum. We aim for a broad and balanced curriculum. National curriculum subjects are taught through a mixture of cross curricular topic work and subject specific lessons. All classes have interactive whiteboards connected to the internet and we have invested in two suites of laptops, video cameras and iPads to further enhance the children’s computing skills.

We seek to provide an environment which ensures that children attain the necessary skills needed to become independent, well-motivated and confident learners. From the early years, children are also encouraged to develop and use a range of important social skills.

Literacy and numeracy remain high on our list of priorities. These subjects are taught both as separate subjects and integrated into topic work so that new skills can be applied. Our children perform well in national tests; however, we are not complacent and strive to further raise the achievement of our pupils in all areas.

Through residential, enterprise activities and outdoor learning we aim to provide an environment where children feel safe to take risks and challenge themselves. In the classroom we strive to create interesting and creative learning experiences which motivate and engage pupils.

We also recognise the vital importance of the creative arts. Many of our children take up the opportunity to learn to play an instrument in school or sing in our choir.

Our greatest resource is an experienced and motivated staff. Through regular discussion and monitoring we seek to ensure equal opportunity in all its forms for all of our children. We promote a respect for different cultures within the school through topic work, personal and social education and special events. This adds richness to the educational opportunities provided.

Foundation stage

Children in the Nursery (F1) and Reception (F2) classes make up our Foundation Stage (now called F1 and F2). These classes have their own shared indoor and outdoor space. Children are admitted for part-time places from 3 years old and full-time places in the year that they are 5. Recently, some children who have been attending F1 part-time for a while have been offered a full-time place – please speak to a member of the team about this.  We encourage visits before starting in Foundation so that children are familiar with the adults, routines and other children. We understand that this is a big moment for many families so F2 parents will be invited to attend a ‘Welcome’ meeting with the Head Teacher and Foundation Leader during the summer term before their children start full-time education. Within Foundation we aim to provide a clear programme of structured activities that will enable the children to approach learning with enthusiasm and confidence. We follow the government’s Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Prior to leaving Foundation, pupils will have opportunities to visit Class 1 and participate in a range of focused activities, ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible.