Lower School

Years 1, 2 and 3 make up the Lower School.

In Lower School we study Mathematics including arithmetic and reasoning skills and English which includes phonics, writing, reading, grammar, spelling and handwriting throughout the week.

Science is taught weekly and follows the National Curriculum objectives.

The foundation subjects of History, Geography, Art and D&T are taught through themed topics enabling children to make links between these subjects. Teachers always ensure these lessons are creative and hands on. The children are also encouraged to work independently to improve their retention of knowledge and their ability to apply key skills appropriately.

The foundation subjects of Music, Spanish (Year 3 only), Computing and Physical Education (PE) are all taught discretely following nationally published schemes of work.

Religious Education is taught discretely following the nationally published Plan Bee Scheme for RE.

PSHE/RSE (Personal, Social and Health Education) is taught every week and is a key focus for our work dealing with feelings, emotions and behaviour as well as helping our pupils learn about personal freedoms, human rights, and our place in the world. We follow the 'Jigsaw' Scheme for this subject.

Year 3 go swimming every week for one hour a week for twenty weeks (this is later followed up with a further 20 one-hour lessons in Year 5) this is to ensure that our pupils reach the expected standard of being able to swim 25m unaided by the end of their time in primary school.

Our parents and children enjoy 'Inspire' and 'Team Read' sessions, where they work together in school to plan and make something linked to their current topic or come in early to read together in class at the start of the day.

We have further enrichment activities through themed weeks, visitors to school and year group visits to places of interest. We are able to take advantage of the many local historical features within walking distance of our school.