The CurriculumSt Michael’s emphasises the importance of academic work and our aim throughout is to stimulate interest and curiosity in the various subjects. Examination results are available but we are too small for percentages to make sense. We know each pupil’s potential and encourage them to realise it. In terms of examination results, an A or an E might represent the same excellent outcome, depending on the individual’s abilities. The nursery section (3-5 years), known as “Little Angels,” follows the national and local education authority’s programme. It is inspected by OFSTED and their reports are available. The primary school groups pupils aged 5-7 years in the infants’ class
The whole school wearing pink in aid of a breast - cancer charity.
The range of age groups works particularly well because of the high teacher/pupil ratio and encourages the understanding that everyone can be working very hard at different levels. The national curriculum is followed, and SATS are taken at ages 9 and 11. In the secondary school, classes are based on age for the core subjects of English, mathematics, science, ICT and religious studies. In other subjects, classes may be combined, particularly for art, drama, music and games. The school is not large enough for competitive team sports, but there are fortnightly swimming and gym sessions as well as games. The curriculum is traditional throughout. In the primary classes, there is an emphasis on literacy and numeracy. In addition to the core subjects, art, drama, geography, history, music and physical education are all included from 5-14 years. French begins in Year 7, and at the end of Year 9, pupils continue as above but choose either history or geography. Pupils take SATs at the end of Year 9 and GCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. The school is inspected by OFSTED and their reports are available. |
