Frequently Asked Questions
Do you teach them to read?
We use a variety of techniques ranging from look – and – say, word building and blending, to the constructive use of phonics. We also like our parents to get involved by listening to their child read at home, showing our belief in the importance of learning to read and the shared enjoyment of books. Our aim is to develop a real love of books and an enjoyment of reading.
For more information on helping your children to read, please click on the following links:
Y5-Y6 - Ways to support reading
Phonics and reading scheme
The phonics scheme we follow is Letters and Sounds. Information and DVD clips about our approach are made available to parents prior to their children attending school.
Reading scheme
The main reading scheme used is Oxford Reading Tree. Other reading materials are book banded to match the Oxford Reading Tree levels up to stage 16. Beyond stage 16 children are free readers.
We learnt our tables at school – do they today?
Yes, they are expected to learn their tables but also to understand them and the nature of number, their relationships with one another and the rules of application. Mathematics is more than number and this is addressed comprehensively in our structured approach throughout the school. This approach allows us to help the brightest to reach their full potential and to help those who struggle. The Numeracy hour is fully implemented in all classes. An emphasis is placed on the development of numeracy and mental arithmetic and many home work activities will relate to these two areas.
History and Geography – are they still taught?
These two subjects are seen as very important aspects of the curriculum and a great deal of time and thought goes into the planning and delivery of them through the topic-based approach of the school. We use a wide variety of practical as well as more conventional approaches to ensure that the children in our school have an opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful historians and geographers.
Children can’t spell like wot we can!
Children are encouraged to spell correctly through our special approach to spelling, through learning the rules of spelling, simple tests and through the use of dictionaries as a regular aid to writing.
Science isn’t that important is it?
Science is a vitally important part of the curriculum. Children need to grasp a clear understanding of simple scientific principles from a very early age. We have organised a system that allows each child to develop the skills necessary to succeed and fully understand scientific principles and address them on a regular basis to reinforce learning.
What’s all this topic work about then?
Much of what we teach is organised around a central theme or topic. This enables us to look at learning in its widest sense and address skills across subject boundaries and barriers. It enables us to undertake visits on a regular basis, which serves to develop children’s learning to function within the context of their own environment. What they see and do they understand. Having said this, we are not afraid to address subjects on their own if they do not fit in the pattern.
Do you have many computers?
Yes, we accept that computer education is a vital part of our children’s future. We believe we are not here to teach them games or jump through hoops, but to use computers as they are used in the world today to benefit and aid man. There are computers in every classroom and we have an air conditioned I.T. Suite. The children also have access to the internet.
How do I know how my child is getting on at school?
We have developed a fully comprehensive scheme for assessing children’s progress. This assessment informs us about what your child knows, what he/she has learnt and where he/she needs to go next. We of course report the results of Teacher Assessment at Key Stage 1 and S.A.T.s at Key Stage 2 and we report to you three times a year at formal parent’s evenings but also should problems occur we will ask to see you. You will, of course, receive a record of achievement at the end of each year. We are always willing to discuss any problems that should arise. After all, we should work as a team.
How can I help school?
Like you, we believe in your child and want her/him to do well. Come and help us in school, staff are always looking for willing hands.
If you haven’t found the answer to any questions you have, please contact school.