Curriculum & Learning

English

Mathematics

Mathematics is a tool for everyday life. It is a whole network of concepts and relationships which provide a way of viewing and making sense of the world. It is used to analyse and communicate information and ideas and to tackle a range of practical tasks and real life problems. It also provides the materials and means for creating new imaginative worlds to explore.

Using the Programmes of Study from the National Curriculum and the Renewed Framework for Teaching Mathematics (2006) it is our aim to develop:

• A positive attitude towards mathematics and an awareness of the fascination of mathematics
• Competence and confidence in mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills
• An ability to solve problems, to reason, to think logically and to work systematically and accurately
• Initiative and an ability to work both independently and in cooperation with others
• An ability to communicate mathematics
• An ability to use and apply mathematics across the curriculum and in real life
• An understanding of mathematics through a process of enquiry and experiment

Science

Science experience is presented to children in a practical and relevant context. They acquire knowledge systematically, developing skills and understanding of the world in which we live. Analysis of problems and testing of ideas is encouraged through investigative work.

R.E.

We follow the Bishops Conference recognised syllabus, ‘Here I Am’. The ‘Here I Am’ themes support the church’s liturgical year and sacramental preparation as well as providing the children with the word of God and the experiences of Catholic Christian values. R.E. is celebrated by the whole school in a weekly assembly and in daily collective worship which takes place in each class.

History

Children are given the opportunity to explore a wide range of sources from the past. We encourage first hand experiences through handling real artefacts and wherever possible arranging field work visits to relevant sites of historical interest in the region or bringing in specialists for in-school workshops.

Geography

We study the local area and extend these studies into the wider world. The children learn to use maps to locate cities, countries, mountain ranges, rivers, seas and oceans. They use atlases, photos and the internet to explore the environment.

Art

Design Technology

The children are encouraged to research, disassemble, design and make products, using a variety of methods, materials and tools.

PE

As well as P.E. lessons within classes we have football clubs, a golf coach, tennis coach and judo coach, who all come into school to teach the children.

Music

Music is significant in the overall development of the pupils and because of this it is given appropriate prominence in the curriculum – the soul of a primary school. It is seen as a holistic subject as it provides children with the opportunity to develop socially, emotionally and creatively.

The children are given opportunities to learn to play the recorder, guitar, keyboard and African drums as well as joining the school choir. In the new term, the school will begin its journey for ‘The Sing Up Awards’ – the aim being to recognise, celebrate and promote singing at the heart of school life.

Modern Languages – Spanish

Children begin to learn Spanish in Nursery and develop their skills throughout the school up until Year 6. They learn alongside a native Spanish Foreign Language Assistant covering areas such as parts of their body, animals, colours, numbers and the differences in culture from the UK.

PSHE and Citizenship

PSHE and Citizenship is currently divided into seven areas:

• Safety and personal safety
• Competence and confidence in mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills
• Sex and relationships education
• Drug awareness
• Physical activity
• Eating and healthy lifestyles
• Emotional health

Most of these areas are developed through cross-curricular activities although some are covered as a wider PSHE topic in order to cover them effectively. Children are encouraged to participate in national initiatives by undertaking organised activities within school.