Junior Level
We aim to provide a positive learning experience in a Christian environment, for pupils from ages 3 to 11 years. The school day for all our age groups begins with registration at 0830 followed by an act of collective worship. There are seven 40 minute periods in the day, and school finishes for Kindergarten, Reception, Years 1 and 2 pupils at 1530, while pupils in Years 3,4,5, and 6 finish at 1555. On Tuesday and Friday mornings Years 5 and 6 join in with the senior school pupils for a whole school assembly.
The children are taught in small classes by friendly, highly qualified staff. We hope to encourage all our pupils to reach their full potential as individuals, in order to prepare them for the next stage of their education.
We firmly believe that the educational process should be enjoyable, taking into account all four areas of a child's development: i.e. academic, emotional, social and spiritual.
In accordance with current Government guidelines, the department is organised into three sections; Foundation Stage (Kindergarten and Reception), Key Stage One (Years 1 and 2) and Key Stage Two (Years 3, 4, 5 and 6).
While broadly following the National Curriculum, our independent status allows us the freedom to provide a wider range of educational experiences, aimed at enriching and extending the pupils' abilities and understanding. A carefully planned programme of both on and off site visits is arranged each term to support learning.
Teaching within the Department takes into account the individual needs and learning styles of each child with suitable differentiation where appropriate.
Assessment is an integral part of our pupil's learning experience. It is a continual process, which takes place both formally and informally throughout a child's time at the school. It documents a child's progress with us as an individual, whilst also monitoring their progress as a member of the school community. It effectively informs teacher's planning and has as much a diagnostic role as one of measuring levels of attainment.
Homework is set every day according to age. Each class teacher will give out a homework timetable at the beginning of every year. All children will be expected to practise their spelling and read aloud in addition to their set homework.
As well as the formal programme of lessons, extra-curricular activities are an important part of school life. Children have the opportunity of taking part in additional activities such as Art Club, Computer Club, Chess Club, Sports Clubs (seasonal), Drama Club, First Aid Club, Junior Christian Union and Junior Orchestra.
Christmas Play: Hosanna Rock
The Park School's Christmas play in the Junior School is called Hosanna Rock, a nativity musical based on bible passages. The songs range from rock and roll to lilting folk music. The whole play is an exuberant celebration of Jesus' birth as told by the gospels.
Picture: back row left to right – Nicola, Joseph, Erin, Oliver, Lauren.
Centre – Joshua, Esmee. Front – William, Erin, Thomas.
