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Mathematics |
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Expressive Arts |
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Social Studies |
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Language |
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Religious & Moral Education |
All courses are being linked to the new Curriculum for Excellence final outcomes. The levels at which the various subjects in the curriculum are studied depends on the individual child's ability.
Teachers generally apply the group system (normally three groups per class) to allow pupils to study at a level at which they can work comfortably. Achieving successful work which may be slightly easier than the work the rest of the class is undertaking is far better for a pupil than failure at a higher level and, of course, groups are not permanent.
Basic subjects taught are as follows:
We use the most widely used maths scheme in the UK, Heinemann Maths. The emphasis is on
understanding through use of practical/ structural material. We cover the four basic processes of number - addition, money, measurement, shape, position, movement and information handling. We also aim to foster and develop problem-solving and enquiry skills.
The school has visiting specialists in Art, Drama, Music and PE who along with the class teachers develop suitable programmes of work for the pupils.
Social studies is concerned with the child's knowledge of the world about him, his place in history and the people and factors which influence his life.
The study normally takes the form of a class topic which is developed round a central theme concerning some aspect of history, geography, science, health, language or technology.
Much of the teaching is aimed at developing useful skills like researching, observing and assembling information. In this area of the curriculum, classes often visit places of interest (sometimes accompanied by parents). Visitors are invited to the school and pupils have the opportunity to listen to experts in their own fields and to ask question.
The language programme consists of basic skills of reading, writing, listening and talking.
The reading programme consists of basic readers and group readers (sets of paperback novels read along with the teacher). There is also a reading corner in each classroom and a well stocked school library which is used for borrowing books and/or private research.
The writing programme develops skills in composing functional, personal and imaginative pieces of work along with spelling and formal exercises on punctuation and grammar as the need arises. Emphasis also being put on handwriting and presentation.
Many opportunities arise for listening and speaking throughout the curriculum. These include listening to stories, poetry and tape recordings as well as group discussion of all ongoing work.
There are computers in every classroom and each
child gets to use them for designated tasks. We have recently installed interactive whiteboard systems in every primary classroom. These have been partially funded by the parent council.
This programme follows fairly broad lines allowing as many children as possible to participate. Lessons vary from Bible stories or other world religions to situations which concern the children themselves on a personal basis. This "moral education" may cover topics such as helping those in need or fair play.
School services are conducted in all departments by Rev. P. Park. The Head Teacher also conducts weekly assemblies in the Infant Department and Upper Primary Department.
Pupils who are withdrawn from RE assemblies at the request of their parents are supervised by parent volunteers in the Infant Department. The Upper Primary pupils may use the time for private study in the library or elsewhere.