Learning
In Lower Primary, students experience an inquiry-based curriculum, wonderful teaching and powerful, and enriching learning opportunities. Our practice builds from the excellent foundations of Early Years, balancing a play-based approach with the demands of the English National Curriculum so that children are prepared for their transition to Upper Primary.
Children’s days are rich and varied, with joy and wonder placed at the very centre of our curriculum. A nurturing environment and carefully planned learning allows all our children to thrive.
We believe that good practice builds on excellent foundations from Early Years. We balance a joyful, play-based approach with the demands of the English National Curriculum so that children are well prepared for the transition to Upper Primary. Our practice builds on the strong groundwork laid in Early Years education, serving as a natural extension of the Foundation Stage. We blend this play-based approach with the essential components of the English National Curriculum, ensuring children are equipped for Upper Primary. Our practitioners excel in welcoming and supporting learners who are new to the UK National Curriculum.
Each year group from Year 1 to Year 6 has a bilingual class taught by both English and French specialists. English lessons are led by the English specialist, while Units of Discovery and French lessons are conducted by the French specialist. Children in bilingual classes, like other classes, also receive specialist lessons.
Both Lower and Upper primary follow the White Rose Maths scheme, designed as a mastery model to sequence mathematical concepts and understanding. In Lower Primary, this sequenced provision is enhanced by interactive, playful investigation, allowing children to embed key concepts and maintain enjoyment of Maths.
Units of Discovery aim to create a sense of wonder while developing independent research and inquiry skills. They cover subjects such as Science, Art, History, Design Technology, and Geography, with elements of Computing, PHSE, and English supporting the learning. These units follow the English National Curriculum and include elements of PHSE education. Additionally, they encourage questioning, critical thinking, and active citizenship, with an emphasis on community links and real-world applications.
Our book-based approach to teaching English immerses our young learners in high quality literature and helps to foster a love of reading and language. Alongside these approaches, children have daily synthetic phonics learning.
A clear mathematics programme of study supports children to learn through talk, discovery and play as they build their understanding of mathematics.
Children investigate multi-disciplinary inquiry questions to learn about concepts in Science, Geography, History, Art and Design Technology and are encouraged to take action to make a difference. For example, talking to experts to understand more about endangered species in the rainforest.
Continuous learning provision enables children to play, explore, create and innovate their learning through guided choices. This approach provides opportunities for the children to embed their skills and knowledge.
Play is essential for children’s social, physical, emotional and cognitive development. Every day the children have plenty of time to relax and have fun with their friends in the Tintin Playground and the Wild Garden.
Children in Lower Primary benefit from from specialist teachers in French, Music, PE, Library and Learning Without Walls, with these lessons spread across the week.