Our thematic, skills-based curriculum covers all requirements of the National Curriculum as well as focusing on life-long learning skills. Children are individuals who bring a wealth of experience and interest into the classroom. We talk to the children at the beginning of each theme and ask them what they would like to find out about. Teachers and Teaching Assistants then plan to ensure that the children's ideas are incorporated, and so that they achieve their potential.
Our children are lucky in that they benefit from close attention and contact with adults in the school. Each member of staff supports and challenges each child individually, focusing on developing and challenging them as appropriate.
We introduced the creative, thematic curriculum in September 2008 which gives children access to the skills and curriculum content as indicated by the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2:
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Children in our Reception Group (aged 4) follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum;
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Children in Years 1 to 4 (aged 5 -9) follow the thematic, skills-based curriculum.
During the 2009/2010 Academic Year, the children in our school will be learning through the following themes:
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Autumn Term - Storm Stories
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Spring Term - Castles and Palaces
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Summer Term - The Sea
Our children enjoy all learning opportunities, and take part enthusiastically when we arrange special activities such as our Healthy Schools Week, village walks, regular visits from Toe Tapping Music, etc. Every other year we also take part in the Shine Festival which is an excellent opportunity for us to celebrate our children's talents and interests. We have started to enjoy learning new songs for the annual World Record Breaking attempt called "Big Sing" where primary aged children from across the country are expected to sing the same song at the same time. Last year we learnt "You Gotta Be" by Des'ree.
The rich and varied context we provide for our children's learning helps them develop their imagination and creativity, as well as independence, confidence and strategies for problem solving. It also helps to develop their physical skills and encourages them to recognise the importance of pursuing a healthy lifestyle and keeping themselves and other safe. We regard these as valuable skills, which will enhance the contribution they make not just to school life but also to their families and the wider community.