The Curriculum

The Early Years classes build upon the Nursery's provision for the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the children, consolidating and extending the foundation begun in the home. The children acquire skills and experience in many areas of learning, such as Language and Literacy, Mathematics, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Creative Arts, Physical Development and Spiritual, Personal and Social Development, which will provide them with a sound base on which to build.

The school curriculum is wide and varied, and whilst concentrating on the basics of Language Development, Mathematics and Science, it also includes History, Geography, Art and Craft, Physical Education, Music, Speech and Drama, Information Communications Technology, French and Religious Education.

Religious Education:

The "Here I Am" religious education programme is followed throughout the school.

The English Policy aims to help children:

   to improve standards of communication through the spoken word

   to listen with concentration and speak clearly and audibly in ways which take account of their listeners

   to read fluently and accurately with understanding and enjoyment

   to write legibly, with accuracy, and to achieve high standards in spelling, grammar and creative writing

   to use planning, drafting and editing to improve their work

The Mathematics Policy aims to teach children:

   to apply computational skills with speed and accuracy

   to understand the application of various mathematical ideas in the home, classroom, school and local environment

   to develop mathematical language effectively for practical application

   to have enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning through practical activity, exploration and discussion

   to develop the ability to solve problems through decision-making and reasoning in a range of contexts

   to develop a practical understanding of the ways in which information is gathered and presented

   to teach them to explore features of shape and space and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts

The Science Policy aims to teach children

   to ask and answer scientific questions

   to plan and carry out scientific investigations, using equipment, including computers, correctly

   to know and understand the life processes of living things

   to know and understand the physical processes of materials, electricity, light, sound and natural forces

   to know about the nature of the solar system, including the Earth

   to evaluate evidence and present their conclusions clearly and accurately.

The ICT Policy aims to teach children

   to employ ICT as a cross-curricular tool throughout the school

   to access ICT resources, whenever appropriate, in order to develop their work

   to be aware of ‘'safe practice' when using computing equipment, covering both health and safety issues

   to use and develop their ICT skills in contexts appropriate to their current needs and experience

   to take full advantage of prior learning, knowledge and understanding enabling them to progress appropriately

Specialist Teachers are employed to teach the following subjects:

   Physical Education

   Information Communications Technology

   Music

   Speech and Drama

   French

Annually, children of both Key stages, are prepared and entered for LAMDA examinations, in Spoken English and Choral Speaking. These internationally recognised examinations provide an invaluable forum and platform for improving standards in communication through the spoken word and fostering an appreciation of literature and drama.

School Session

There are three terms in a school year. Dates of school holidays and terms are sent to all parents and posted on the website, when available.

The school session times are as follows:

8.50 a.m. –- 12 noon and 1 p.m. –- 3.05 p.m. (Infants)

8.50 a.m. –- 12 noon and 1 p.m. –- 3.10 p.m. (Juniors)

School Lunch and Break Arrangements

Homework

We set homework for all children as a normal part of school life. Homework is compulsory - it is seen as an essential part of good education. It is work that children do, outside the normal school day that contributes to their learning in response to guidance from the school.

Homework encompasses a whole variety of activities, instigated by teachers and parents to support children's learning. We increase the amount of homework that children receive as they move through the school.

School Rules and Discipline

Children are expected to adhere to all school rules, whether given verbally or in writing. Discipline within the school is kindly, inculcating a respect for authority and a feeling of stability. A high standard of conduct, appearance and effort is expected.

School Fees September 2008 – July 2009

£1,985 per term for the first child.

£1,845 per term for the second child.

£1,765 per term for the third and any subsequent children.

AN INITIAL ONE-OFF PAYMENT EQUIVALENT TO A TERM'S FEE IS REQUIRED FOR THE BOND. THIS IS REFUNDABLE WHEN YOUR CHILD COMPLETES YEAR 6. ANY REFUND BEFORE THIS WILL BE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES.

Bond Scheme

A Bond Scheme is used as a means of generating additional funds. A single payment equivalent to one term's fees is required when the child commences school. This is an interest-free loan redeemable when the child completes Year 6 (any refund before this age is at the discretion of the Board of Trustees.)

Registration of Interest

Please telephone 01708 761220 or email: harepark@btconnect.com to request application form(s).

Deposit

(ALL PLACES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY)

PRE-SCHOOL NURSERY

Parental Involvement

Parents may visit the school at any time, although it is advisable to phone the Secretary first to make an appointment. Teachers may not be consulted when classes are in session.

Open Evenings and Parents' Meetings will be held during the year to which parents will be invited. Parents may request a meeting with Class or Specialist Teachers, at any time throughout the year, to discuss issues relevant to their child's welfare and education.

Parents are kept aware of what is happening in the school in a weekly newsletter as well as letters sent home relating to specific class-related issues, etc.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

We have a thriving, active and hard-working PTA, whose Committee meets on a regular basis, to plan a variety of events and social gatherings.

The aims of the Association are to:

    enhance the welfare, education and interests of the pupils

    encourage co-operation between staff, parents and all others associated with the school

    organise extra-curricular events for parents and children.