Teaching Support

Specialist teachers teach Science, French, Music, Art, Games and ICT. There are in addition a number of peripatetic music teachers.  Class sizes are small with a maximum permitted number of 22.

Classroom assistants are also employed in the early years and learning support is also available outside the classroom for the few children who need extra help. When appropriate, pupils in Years 5 and 6 are ability grouped for Maths and in these classes, the curriculum is mainly taught by subject specialists.

 At various times in the school year extra - curricular activities can include;: Chess, Gaelic Football, Drama, Choir, Rugby, Orchestra, Football, Coerver Soccer, Netball, Table Tennis, Verbal Reasoning, Cricket and Cross Country.

Homework

This provides all pupils with the opportunity to practise and consolidate work covered in class. It is set daily to a timetable and the amount given is appropriate to the age and ability of the child. Homework is recorded in Reading Record Books and Homework Diaries which also serve as effective channels of communication between home and school.

Assessments and Results

Examinations for Years 3 to 6 are held in November and June of each year. In addition, Years 5 and 6 are tested in English, Mathematics and Science in March. Years 3 to 5 take the Optional QCA tests in English and Mathematics. In May Year 6 take the Key Stage 2 (SATS) tests in English, Mathematics and Science and Year 2 take the Key Stage 1 (SATS) tests in English and Mathematics.

The school has maintained its highly successful record in all of these external tests. In the Year 6 pupils consistently achieve at least Level 4 (the nationally expected standard for 11 year olds) in English, Mathematics and Science with a large proportion achieving a level 5 (the nationally expected standard for 14 year olds).

Key Stage 1 results are also excellent with all children reaching at least the required level and a good proportion achieving Level 3 (the nationally expected standard for 9 year olds). The school obtained an excellent OFSTED report for Early Years Education in the last inspection.

Reports

Written reports are sent home in December, and July. They give parents information on academic effort and achievement. From Years 3 to 6 they include the exam percentage mark, effort and term grades, class average and a comment on the child's general attitude.

Parents' Meetings take place annually, although individual appointments can be made at any time and parents are especially encouraged to contact the school if they have concerns regarding their child's progress in any area of the curriculum.