Key Stages and Curriculum

Key Stage 1 - Years 1 and 2

A positive, safe and nurturing environment exists at Key Stage 1, where an enthusiastic team of teachers and teaching assistants provide a stimulating and enriching learning journey for all pupils.

There are usually two or three classes in each of Years 1 and 2. The children are encouraged and supported to become independent, responsible and resilient young citizens, giving them the confidence and skills to co-operate and work with their peers and adults within the school community.

In Key Stage 1 Literacy is broken down into Phonics, Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing. Phonics is fun and encompasses all areas of the curriculum.  This is an important focus within the New English National Curriculum Framework and is the stepping-stone as children become successful readers, writers and communicators.

Mathematics is an enjoyable experience as the children are encouraged to use a wide range of strategies and practical experiences.  Mental Maths, problem-solving and investigations are areas of strong focus in this curriculum area. 

Music and Physical Education are taught by specialist teachers and in Year 2 the children begin Italian lessons at various levels.

Key Stage 2 - Years 3 to 6

To enter Key Stage 2 is to enter a world of possibilities.  Discover, explore, create and learn! The journey from Year 3 to Year 6 enables children to unlock the potential scientist, historian, author, mathematician or artist that they may become.  Travel in time from the gladiators of Ancient Rome to Tudor England.  Voyage across the globe exploring rivers, reading maps and analysing weather systems.

The Key Stage 2 curriculum offers a diverse range of specialised areas of study following the English National Curriculum in an international environment.  The emphasis is on active learning through scientific experiments, mathematical investigations and performances.  English skills are developed through drama, discussion, role-play and debates.   Year 5 and Year 6 pupils have opportunities to work in Senior School laboratories dissecting hearts, identifying microbes or making rock salt.

As well as developing their academic ability, pupils are encouraged to strengthen their interpersonal skills and become excellent team players through our comprehensive sports programme.

Children are actively involved in charity work, environmental projects and house teams. This promotes a culture of collaborative learning, tolerance, respect and integrity.

The learning journey continues outside the classroom through websites, class trips and homework tasks, which are an integral part of the programme.