Curriculum
The Preparatory Department
The curriculum is developed and organised by curriculum coordinators. Each member of the Preparatory School Staff has responsibility for at least one area of the National Curriculum. They provide schemes of work, planning, resources, support and guidance for the teaching staff and children. They monitor their subject by carrying out book trawls and lesson observations. They aim to inspire others and ensure that the needs of all pupils are met. The coordinators enable consistency and continuity across the Key Stages. The curriculum is taught through separate subjects at both Key Stages, with good use of cross-curricular links.
Key Stage 1 – Years 1 and 2
In Years 1 and 2, all pupils study a broad range of subjects in which National Curriculum Guidelines and standards are followed. The main focus is daily Literacy and Numeracy sessions. The skills developed in these areas are used across the curriculum.
Other important areas of the curriculum are Science and ICT. Pupils are also taught Religious Education, Music, Physical Education, French, Art, Design and Technology, Topic (History and Geography) and PSHE. There is also the opportunity to take part in dance, swimming and singing.
At the end of Key Stage 1, our pupils are aware of others around them and are developing a sense of community. Organisational skills are actively encouraged to promote a more independent learner. They will have made important steps on the learning ladder, particularly in Literacy and Numeracy. By the end of Year 2 we hope to foster a love of learning, encourage pleasure in reading and a desire to learn more.
Key Stage 2 – Years 3-6
In Years 3-6, all pupils study a broad range of subjects in which National Curriculum guidelines and standards are followed. The main focus is daily Literacy and Numeracy sessions. The skills developed in these areas are used across the curriculum.
Other important areas of the curriculum are Science and ICT. Pupils are also taught History, Geography, Religious Education, Music, Physical Education, Art, Design and Technology and PHSE. There is also the opportunity to take part in singing. Dance is taught up to Year 4.
At the end of Key Stage 2, our pupils are becoming independent, self-motivated and confident learners. They are starting to be equipped with skills that will assist them in later life. They will have had opportunities to become involved in the needs of the wider community.
Learning Skills
Learning skills are supported through areas of the curriculum. Knowledge and skills learned in one subject are applied to others, thus reinforcing their learning and increasing their understanding and confidence. The aspects of subjects that bring them to life: enquiry, problem-solving and practical work is actively planned for. The curriculum model makes the best use of all available curriculum time to actively develop learning skills.
Curriculum Enrichment
Curriculum Enrichment is provided through the extended day programme where a wide range of activities is on offer. This includes a supervised homework session every day. Other activities have included golf, chess, origami, knitting, making Faberge eggs, Latin, French, Irish dancing, calligraphy, tag rugby, table tennis, ‘Fitness Fun’ and netball. The programme for these activities is changed every half term.
Extra curricular activities available to pupils include lessons in drama, piano, violin, singing, flute and guitar. When children have developed in these areas, they have the opportunity to take examinations and perform in competitions and at festivals. The choir performs in concerts and major theatre productions. We also offer school trips based on the curriculum covered.
Transition
To reinforce the pastoral system in school, we have a ‘Year 2 and 3 Club’. Pupils in this club go on trips to amusement parks, have parties and have an extended day activity together. These activities allow for a smooth transition between Key Stages 1 and 2.
Part of the timetable in Year 6 (as in other year groups) is taught by Senior School staff so that the pupils become familiar with the Key Stage 3 staff and have specialist teaching. Year 6 are also given the opportunity to socialise with Year 7 in a ‘6s and 7s Club’. This allows for a smooth transition through the Key Stages. Pupils in this club attend discos, go on trips to the theatre and amusement parks. There are yearly residential visits abroad or in the United Kingdom