Curriculum Page 1

 Curriculum

The curriculum is planned and developed by the Headteacher and staff. Curriculum 2000 is the focus of that planning, consisting of the three core subjects (English, mathematics and science) and seven foundation subjects (technology, history, geography, art, music, physical education and religious education). All are part of a broad and balanced Infant school education.

It is the school's aim to recognise each individual child's learning potential, by planning individual work programmes based on Curriculum 2000.

Curriculum 2000 is divided up into Attainment targets for each subject area, giving guidelines for the level where a child might be expected to be by a certain age. These are broad guidelines as every child is an individual and all work at a different pace. The guidelines are:

Level 1 - age 4-6 years
Level 2 - age 6-8 years
Level 3 - age 8-10 years
Level 4 - age 10-12 years

Each term or half-term the children study a particular topic, for example: "Material", "Growth", "Homes", "Transport", "Environment", "Movement". Each topic has been carefully selected and researched to ensure a balanced curriculum.

Through studying such a topic the children can enjoy a variety of experiences, including investigation and experimentation. Such topics can create a stimulating introduction to many learning experiences.

As part of the National Literacy Strategy, a 'Literacy Hour' is timetabled daily during the morning session. Literacy lessons involve the teaching of reading, writing and speaking and listening. The school regularly monitors the standards of literacy within the school, with the aim of raising standards.

English in Curriculum 2000 now puts more emphasis on debating skills, speaking and listening and role-play. A variety of media is used as a stimulus to learning, including audiotapes, drama, computers and outside speakers.
Reading is the key to all learning and great emphasis is placed on it. The children are encouraged to read for enjoyment and understanding, as well as for information. Reading books are sent home regularly with a child's reading booklet, which is completed by the teacher, parent and child. The school has a well-stocked library and each classroom has a variety of reading material including fiction, poetry, library books, dictionaries and encyclopaedias. The children take a library book home each week to enjoy with their parents. All children also participate in a guided reading session in the class, once a week.

Alongside the development of reading, the school has a structured approach to the learning of phonics. The sounds of single letters are learnt, as well as letter blends and digraphs, such as 'sh', 'oo', and 'cl'. Learning phonics gives children the confidence to tackle unknown words.

The children receive a series of key words, which need to be learnt for reading and spelling. These words are used regularly within reading and writing and, once learnt, they help children with their word recognition.

Speaking and listening are as important as reading. Children are encouraged to develop spoken language skills and to develop their ability to listen, respond, discuss and express ideas.

The school has a handwriting policy centred on a cursive script. Learning correct letter formation will begin in nursery and Reception classes.

There is now an increased emphasis on the understanding and correct use of grammar as it is an essential tool for developing children's writing abilities.