Junior Department

In the Junior Department the curriculum, based upon the foundations laid in the Infant Department, is widened and extended. Although the core subjects of English, in all forms - written, spoken and aural - and Mathematics continue to play a large part, Science, History, Geography and Religious Education are all time-tabled. Cross-curricular themes are often used to emphasise the interdependence of knowledge and learning. French is introduced in Year 5, and Latin in the final terms of Year 6.

Pupils are encouraged to produce an independently researched piece of written work based upon studies covered in class in order to prepare for the "course work" required later in their careers.

In their final year pupils hoping to gain entry into local Public Schools are prepared to meet the requirements of external examinations, both written and oral.

Standardised tests are administered annually and from the results parents and staff can discuss the best route forward for their children. From the bi-annual internal exams a pupil's progress in all areas can be measured and informative termly reports and parents meetings give an opportunity to plan strategies and improve areas of weakness and maintain standards in strong subjects.

In the final term the Year 6 pupils take K.S.2 SATS in Maths, English and Science. Results regularly indicate standards above the National Average, with many reaching Level 5, a standard usually attained in Secondary School.

A Newsletter keeps parents informed of school activities. Academic, improvement and effort prizes are awarded annually on Speech Day. The House System which operates throughout the Junior Department enables all children to contribute to the "team spirit" as competitions in music, general knowledge, cross country, swimming, chess and team games are all keenly contested. A House Shield, presented on Speech Day, is awarded to the House gaining the most points throughout the year.