Learning in Junior School

A virtuous circle

We believe that success is the most motivating force for young children when it comes to learning.  Achievement and recognition build confidence and self-belief which encourages perseverance and determination.  It’s a virtuous circle that really fosters a love of learning and is central to our teaching approach.

In the classroom, teachers are constantly observing and monitoring progress and setting girls work that challenges their ability level.  It’s a personalised approach that allows girls to develop at their own pace; to feel good about their individual achievements. 

We expand upon the national curriculum as the girls progress through the school; starting with the  building blocks of reading, writing and maths in Reception and introducing academic subjects beyond the national curriculum including French towards the end of Reception and Latin once they join year 5 at the age of 9.

Workshops and visits every term bring lessons alive and energise the girls as the timetable is put aside for a few hours or a day.  Sometimes these are run by teachers and we also have specialist, visiting organisations who entertain and educate.  It might be a session with the Mini-Beast Man, a Shakespeare4Kidz workshop or Rude Mechanicals theatre production at the Senior School….  they all add to the excitement and experience of learning.

Class teachers teach the core curriculum, really know each girl intimately and are the main contact point for parents.  Class teachers are supported by specialist teachers in subjects like languages, PE and music where virtuosity and excellence take experience and a trained eye.