Learning and Support
The school is organised into four classes. Teaching takes place in mixed age groups or in year groups depending on the lesson and context. . Where possible, we have a creative approach to learning making links between subjects as we believe that's how children learn best.
Parents are sometimes concerned when children are taught in split age classes, typical of smaller schools where the admission number is not high enough for one class. All pupils are St Mary's are taught to meet their potential with an often high level of challenge within the appropriate Programmes of Study. There is an emphasis on deepening learning so that children become proficient at using their knowledge and skills in a variety of ways and across different subjects. Our classes are small enough so that every child has plenty of teacher/pupil interaction. We also plan for opportunities where split year groups work together.
CURRICULUM INTENT
St Mary's aims for every child to achieve their potential at each stage of their school career; academically, socially, emotionally and physically. We provide a broad and balanced curriculum rich in 'real world' learning experiences, equipping our children with the skills and knowledge to become lifelong, confident individuals, effective contributors, successful learners and responsible citizens. Our curriculum is ambitious but also reflects our rural situation and the Christian distinctiveness of our school.
Where possible, our curriculum makes strong links between subjects so that children can make sense of the world around them. It provides progression that is consistent with pupils' learning needs and prior achievements. Please click on the individual subject tabs to find out more about each subject.
TRULY GREAT TEACHING CHARTER
This forms the bedrock of our provision and is the entitlement for all of our children.
We are very proud of our strong results overtime. Our children leave St Mary's as happy, confident and independent learners who are well placed to have a successful transition to secondary school. Parents report high levels of satisfaction with our provision.