Within Key Stage 2 the children enjoy a challenging and broad curriculum which is language rich. Literacy and numeracy form a strong basis to the curriculum and children are taught at their own level with additional support being given to those children needing consolidation whilst challenge is provided for the more able children through differentiated activities and extension work.

“All pupils make good progress and their attainment is above and sometimes well above that expected for their ages and abilities”. (Ofsted 2008)

Where possible the curriculum follows a thematic approach with foundation subjects being taught by specialist teachers. Activities are planned using a multi sensory approach and the children respond particularly well to a more kinaesthetic and practical style of delivery. Work is further enhanced through trips and visits in the local area and further afield. Special importance is placed on the standard of recorded work and we expect them to feel proud of the work they produce.

“All work is carefully marked and tells pupils what they have achieved. The best marking, of which there is much also tells pupils what they must do to improve”. (Ofsted 2008)

The children’s formal curriculum is supplemented through music, drama and physical education. Our Key Stage 2 children enjoy a total of four hours of sport each week taken by our sports teachers and a number of coaches in cricket, rugby and swimming. They can further develop their sporting interests and skills through our extensive and varied extra curricular programme.

Children also enjoy an exciting musical syllabus. Lessons cover all aspects of the National Curriculum for music which is evident in the quality of the productions that are put on during the year. Children also have the option to develop their skills further through peripatetic teaching in brass, singing and piano.

“The spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils is outstanding. One parent said ‘the school is a magical place of learning’. The school has a family atmosphere and, like a family, the boys learn to take care of each other”. (Ofsted 2008)

As the children move into Form 6 regular practice of and support for entrance exams is given and traditionally children move to the secondary school of their choice. Following the completion of the entrance examinations a more practical and project based programme is implemented. The curriculum is less structured and is implemented with the aim of developing their life and social skills whilst developing their independence and leadership qualities. As an example the children will have the opportunity to iron, sew buttons, cook meals, plan trips, budget for events as well as taking part in a variety of building and making projects. This is a time that the children thoroughly enjoy and helps them to make a lasting contribution to the school before they leave.