- Swimming Lessons (14.11.2007)

The Study Group follows the English National Curriculum. This provides teaching in the 'core' subjects of English, mathematics, science and I.C.T. (Information and Communication Technology).

We also teach all the 'foundation' subjects of history, geography, design and technology, art and design, music and physical education.

Children are assessed by using our own regular tests and the national tests for children in England.

Throughout all our teaching, we aim to develop skills of both excellence and self-confidence, with a balance between the academic and the creative. We wish all pupils to develop as independent learners, within a structure that is clear and supportive.

Curriculum Evenings are held during the year, in order to give parents the opportunity to see how certain subjects are covered in the study group. These are interactive evenings, where participation and questions are encouraged.

Subjects covered include Maths, English, Science and Information and Communication Technology (known as ICT). In addition we sometimes hold open afternoons where the work of the study group can be seen.

For more information on the English National Curriculum please refer to website www.nc.gov.uk. Another helpful site is www.parentscentre.gov.uk, which also has information in other languages including Turkish.

In addition to our normal music lessons, the study group has provision for peripatetic music. This is provided as an optional extra, and takes place through the school day. Currently, we provide teaching for individuals or small groups. The instruments are piano, clarinet, flute and recorder at this time. Other requests will be considered.

Homework is set as a valuable extension of school learning. Times for homework vary according to age.

Click here for the Study Group's complete homework policy.

The ways in which children learn to co-operate, to be considerate and responsible and to value truth and honesty are parts of school life, and a vital part of growing up. The study group promotes this by establishing a caring community which is seen to both fair and just for everyone.

Children behave badly from time to time, as they struggle to control their feelings and build relationships. Normally these incidents are dealt with by the staff in their role 'in loco parentis'. However, with any more serious incidents parents will be contacted and invited to discuss the matter.

What we hope is that during their time at the study group all children will gain a clear understanding of what is expected of them, a sense of right and wrong and a sense of their own personal worth, both individually and to the community.

In order to keep up the latest curriculum developments, the staff are given various opportunities for in-service training. Twice a year consultants visit the study group for developmental training. These visits usually last two or three days, during which time the study group may be closed for one day (see the calendar / year plan).

At the start of the school year staff hold a meeting for all parents. This meeting introduces the work of the class and general matters of organisation. Later in the first term an evening consultation is held. This is also provided in the second term. At the end of the school year a report is sent home and an opportunity to discuss this provided.

Parents are able to discuss their child's progress at other times, by prior arrangement with the class teacher or Head.