We are confident that the majority of pupils will, without forcing, progress at a faster pace than is indicated by National Curriculum Attainment Targets.
In the Lower School [ages 4-7], a secure foundation of basic skills is laid. Particular attention is given to numeracy and all aspects of literacy - reading, spelling, handwriting and comprehension. Oral and listening skills are also developed. These essential skills are fostered across the whole curriculum. At the same time, individual and creative expression is nurtured and encouraged. Pupils have the same class teacher for the majority of lessons, with subject specialists visiting where appropriate, e.g. for Music. Early diagnosis of any special learning difficulty brings help from a teacher qualified in meeting Special Educational Needs.
Upper School pupils aged from 8 to 11 also have a class teacher, but many lessons are given by subject specialists. For all age groups the maximum class size is 18 pupils.
At all stages of development we aim, via a rich curriculum, to broaden and deepen our children's awareness and understanding of the world around them and of their place within it. Academic learning is related, wherever possible, to the real world beyond the classroom and is supported by visits and off-site explorations.
We expect all pupils, as they pass through the school, to acquire skills
in Word Processing, Data Management and Graphic Design, and software
is constantly reviewed with this in mind.
The use of the computer as a tool for learning is an integral part of the curriculum. We have a computer room equipped with a network of 18 laptops, which allows each child to have their own workstation during computer lessons. In addition, stand-alone computers with associated printers are dotted around the school. Pupils may use these under staff supervision.
Music is an important area of the curriculum. In addition to class lessons pupils are encouraged to join the Junior or Senior Choir and the School Orchestra. Peripatetic teachers offer individual tuition in a wide range of musical instruments and it is possible for singing lessons to be arranged. Group tuition in recorders is also available.
The school provides religious instruction that is broadly Christian in nature, but we welcome children from families of all denominations and faiths and from those where no faith is professed. Regular assemblies provide opportunities to develop awareness of world religions and of important humanitarian and spiritual issues of both topical and permanent relevance.
A residential experience is available for years 3, 4, 5 and 6. Year 3 enjoy a two-night stay at a centre in Surrey and other years attend a residential centre in Dartmoor for a week of activities. In addition, we take pupils to chateaux in Normandy where they spend a week taking part in adventurous activities and having French lessons.
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