English

Literacy is considered a high priority. We aim to promote enjoyment and knowledge of language. Pupils’ participate in a daily Literacy hour where a variety of books – both fiction and non-fiction are used. Training in the use of language spans the whole curriculum, through discussion and personal experiences, listening to stories and poems and through drama. Spelling, punctuation and vocabulary also arise naturally from these activities. We encourage parents to help us teach their children to read by sharing books with them.

Mathematics

Numeracy is taught according to the National Numeracy Strategy. The maths lesson is taught daily and lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.
The main subject strands of the Numeracy Strategy are number, algebra, shape and space and data handling.

Science

Science is taught in line with the National Curriculum. Children are encouraged to observe, discuss, question and predict, with plenty of ‘hands-on’ experience. We aim to help children realise the role and importance of science in daily life and the effect of human activity on the environment.

ICT

Information & Communications Technology (ICT) are part of the normal curriculum. We hope all children will experience writing with a word processor, data handling, graphics and simple robotics during their school career.  We are fortunate to have an ICT suite on each site as well as at least two computers in each classroom for every day use.

Design & Technology

Design and technology is a practical subject which involves children in developing their own personal skills and their knowledge of a range of materials and equipment. Children are also encouraged to work independently, and in co-operation with other members of their group.

Music

During music lessons children are given the opportunity of enjoying and sharing in a wide range of activities, all of which enable them to participate fully in making and appreciating music of different types and from different sources. From the very early years children are given the opportunity of composing their own music, of listening to and appreciating music of a variety of styles and from different cultures, and of learning and singing songs both for their own enjoyment and for performance to parents and friends.

Art

Art is a valued part of the curriculum and children are encouraged to observe all aspects of the world around them. They explore different materials and techniques and are taught to appreciate works of well-known artists.

R.E.

Religious Education is taught in accordance with the agreed syllabus. Assembly is an important part of the school day. Children both take part in and produce their own class assemblies to which parents are invited. Assemblies are also conducted by other visitors to the school, for example; the local vicar, the consultant for minority ethnic education, Salvation Army. If parents wish to withdraw their child from these activities, then please let the school know. We can make alternative arrangements, but are unable to offer other forms of Religious Education.
It is stressed that our approach to this aspect of the curriculum is non denominational and mainly Christian in content, and we try to offer a respect for moral values, an understanding of different forms of worship, and a      co-operative and caring attitude towards others, that is suitable for all, including those with non-Christian beliefs.

Health Education

Health Education is about physical health, growing up, feelings and related issues. Within this area sensitive issues such as drugs and sex education will be covered by the older children, mostly in a scientific or social context. It may be that other professionals, such the School Nurse, will lead such studies. In other year groups these matters are handled in an honest, natural and open way as questions or subjects occur during the normal school day.

P.E.

P.E. & Games are curriculum subjects and all children are expected to take part. The games programme covers a wide variety of activities with equal access for boys and girls.

A complete change of clothing is needed – shorts, T-shirt etc. A thicker top or tracksuit is a good idea for colder days.

A written note should accompany any child to be excused P.E., Games or swimming for health reasons.