Juniors
The confidence of the students grows enormously in their time in the Great Walstead Junior School which is the department that covers our 7-9 year olds, in Years 3 and 4. They become more independent socially and academically and many older pupils look back fondly on this time as a magical two years.
The children in are mainly taught by their form teachers. This gives teachers opportunities to nurture each individual effectively, and it makes it possible to build and maintain cross-curricula links. However, specialist teachers teach some of the subjects (music, games, French, ICT, art).
To underpin the strong academic rigour, there are many themed days during which we use our excellent facilities and expertise to ensure that the learning becomes more experiential. One example of this is the Year 3 Anglo-Saxon Day, which is held in our school woods. Activities include making pottage, dipping candles, making ink, plaiting dough, making balms, carving soap, listening to stories and spreading ancient rumours(!). Another example is the Year 4 Egyptian Day, during which the children paint on papyrus, make mud and straw bricks, paint plaster scarabs, make pectorals, “mummify” soft toys, make authentic potions and balms, dress up, and taste foods of the period.
The children in the Junior School are old enough to do all manner of things and they have an incredible zest for life and learning. The teachers have high expectations of their students and work hard to ensure that lessons are stimulating, creative and differentiated to suit particular needs. The teachers view the students in their care as individuals, each having something to bring to the learning environment.
We work hard to help the children to develop their social skills. We try to model clear and friendly communications ourselves and we always encourage considerate behaviour. We use stories, PHSE lessons, RE lessons and assemblies carefully to help individuals and groups to interact positively and to encourage the children to consider the needs of others. We encourage older children to come alongside the younger ones. Above all, we listen to the children and we value their contributions.
We have a lot of fun in the Junior School and it is an incredibly busy place. The children make the most of their lessons and we are proud of the way we maximise the potential of every student.
James Skillicorn
Head of the Junior School
