Curriculum

Junior School pupils at St Chris using virtual reality headsets in class
St Chris Junior School pupils playing football
St Chris Junior School pupil in art class
St Chris junior school pupil in class with teacher
St Chris Junior School pupil writing in her book in class with her teacher

Junior School Curriculum

In the Junior School, we embark on a journey with your child - a journey of curiosity, creativity, and continuous learning.

Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to foster not just academic excellence but to instil a love for learning that will accompany children throughout their lives.

Topic-Based Approach

Our Junior School adopts a topic-based approach to learning, developing a curriculum that encompasses literacy, maths, science, art, humanities, and personal social, health, and economic education (PSHCE). Recent topics have transported our students to places like India, the vast dimensions of outer space, the Viking era, Africa, and the rainforests.

Core Subjects and Beyond

In a typical week, our students delve deep into the core subjects—English, mathematics, and science. But the richness of our curriculum extends far beyond, embracing art, music, French, humanities, PSHCE, computing, and physical education. Each subject is an integral thread in the fabric of our well-rounded education, designed to nurture not just academic prowess but also holistic development. No matter what a child’s interests, they can find it or enhance it at St Chris.

St Chris Junior School pupil reading in class with teacher

Junior School Clubs

At St Chris, students are encouraged to explore all of their areas of interest, and we take extra care to ensure that we can facilitate the development of skills in a broad range of areas. Recent clubs have included the following:

English
English is a powerful tool for expression and understanding. Our focus is on instilling an appreciation for language in all its forms, creating an atmosphere where learning is both fun and informative. From mastering the structures of language to cultivating creativity in storytelling, our aim is to make English vibrant and exciting.
Maths
Our mathematics teaching is tailored to each student, aiming not only to impart mathematical skills but also to nurture enthusiasm and fascination for the subject. Daily discussions allow children to express their thoughts and reasoning, building confidence in using the language of maths with assurance. This ensures that the foundations of maths are embedded within each student, setting them up for a lifetime of problem solving.
Science and Technology
Preparing children for a scientific and technological world, our science curriculum is practical and challenging. Science Week immerses children in hands-on exploration, encouraging questioning, investigation, and collaboration. Beyond, computing lessons in the Senior School introduce programming fundamentals using Scratch, enhancing technological literacy. Not only is this a brilliant opportunity to enhance the curriculum, but these lessons also give Junior School students a flavour for life in the Senior School so that, if they choose to progress to the Senior School, they feel more confident in their environment from the offset.
Creative Arts
From art to drama and music, our curriculum celebrates creativity. Art sessions inspire children to explore various media and be inspired by a diverse range of artists, while drama performances become a dynamic showcase of their learning. Music is woven into the fabric of daily life, with singing, instrument lessons, and class presentations fostering a love for the arts. These opportunities allow students to truly express themselves, having the freedom to tailor their studies to their passions.
Languages and Humanities
French is introduced in a fun and engaging manner, providing cultural exposure from Reception to Year 5. Humanities classes extend beyond textbooks, incorporating Forest School sessions, seasonal celebrations, and discussions on environmental issues.
Physical Education
Understanding the connection between body and mind, physical education is a vital part of our curriculum. Specialist-taught lessons encompass a variety of activities, from invasion games to creative dance, making use of our extensive facilities, including our on-site swimming pool and sports pitches.
Forest School and Play
Forest School lessons offer hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment, building confidence and self-esteem. Play is an integral part of the day, with marked play areas, an adventure trail, and a quiet garden providing diverse opportunities for individual and group play.

Transition to Senior School

In Years 5 and 6, students spend time in the Senior School, receiving specialized teaching in art, science, and cookery. This aids their smooth transition, ensuring familiarity with Senior School facilities and staff. We guarantee all Junior School students a place in the Senior School without additional entrance tests or SATS, using Cognitive Ability Tests (CAT4) for baseline information.

At St Chris Junior School, the broad and engaging curriculum nurtures every child's potential in a dynamic and inspiring environment.

 

Download Curriculum Information

Nursery

Reception

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

Nursery

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Nursery Curriculum

Reception

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Reception Curriculum

Year 1

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 1 Curriculum

Year 2

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 2 Curriculum

Year 3

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 3 Curriculum

Year 4

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 4 Curriculum

Year 5

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 5 Curriculum

Year 6

Our youngest learners focus their learning on developing skills for life. Child Initiated Learning aids children to develop gross and fine motor skills, learn how to interact in social settings, and gain an improved awareness of themselves and the world around them.

Download the 2024-25 Year 6 Curriculum

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