We are a one form entry school with a maximum of 24 girls in each class. However, the pupils benefit from having a number of half class lessons across the curriculum which enable the staff to do detailed work and address specific learning needs, whether through extension or support.
In the Early Years, science is taught largely as part of the specific area of ‘Understanding the World’ but is also integrated into many of the other areas. From Year 3, girls are taught by a subject specialist. Our large, well-equipped laboratory allows the girls to carry out experiments and to test their scientific predictions.
The girls are helped to connect the science that they learn in the laboratory with the world around them. They make bread, butter, ice cream, fizzy drinks and film canister rockets, as well as making and designing parachutes and rafts to investigate forces. Our Year 6 girls design and make toys with electrical circuits using motors and LEDs to allow their creations to move and light up.
Our pond and garden areas are invaluable for pond dipping and mini-beast hunts, as well as for growing our own fruit and vegetables. Every Spring, we incubate a number of hens’ or ducks’ eggs and the whole school watches their progress from egg to chick or duckling.
We participate in National Science and Engineering Week activities and the British Science Association CREST award scheme, with girls from Reception to Year 6 working towards Star and Superstar awards.