Small Class Sizes, Big Opportunities
One of the distinctive features of our Junior School is its commitment to small class sizes. Our classes are intentionally kept small to ensure an unparalleled level of student-teacher interaction. This approach fosters an environment where every child receives personalised attention, allowing their academic abilities to flourish as they are known and understood. With high student/teacher support ratios, we create a nurturing space for young minds to grow and explore.
Empowered Learners, Relevant Topics
Students in the Junior School follow a topic-based approach to learning. Each term, for each class, there is a focused topic from which much of the curriculum is derived. Topics are carefully chosen to reflect the contemporary world, ensuring that learning is not only engaging but also applicable to the challenges of today and tomorrow. Recent topics have included India; Space; Vikings; Africa; Communication; Migration and Rainforests.
Our topic-based approach facilitates learning that is centred within a context from which literacy; maths; science; art; humanities and personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education is developed.
Our Junior School has also recently undertaken work to diversify the curriculum. Our students become empowered learners, equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
Our curriculum is regularly reviewed, and changes are made when necessary to ensure that we are employing the best possible methods and providing the best education.
Education at St Chris extends beyond traditional subjects. Our Junior School students regularly participate in Forest School sessions, immersing themselves in nature and fostering a deep connection with the environment. Music lessons, alongside PE, games, swimming lessons at our on-site swimming pool and French lessons, all delivered by specialist teachers, provide a holistic approach to education, nurturing not only academic excellence but also physical wellbeing and creativity.
Trips That Bring Learning to Life
Education at St Chris extends beyond the classroom walls. Our Junior School students enjoy multiple opportunities to embark on enriching day trips throughout the year, all included in the school fees. These excursions are carefully curated to enhance their studies and bring learning to life. Whether it's exploring historical landmarks, delving into nature, or engaging in cultural experiences, these trips create lasting memories and broaden the horizons of our young learners. Each class takes part in at least one class trip per term.
Students from Year 3 also undertake at least one residential trip each year (which we call LSP – or Late Summer Programme) which increases in duration and in challenge level as the children progress through the school. For many students, this is the first time they have been away from family for such a length of time, so is a great personal development opportunity for our students.
Recent LSP residential trips have included:
- Year 2 – Woburn Safari Park for day trip overnight camp out at St Chris
- Year 3 – Thriftwood Camp in Essex – camping, kayaking, climbing wall, axe throwing, ropes course – two nights
- Year 4 – Bawdsey Manor Adventure, Suffolk – multi activity trip – three nights
- Year 5 – Isle of Wight – multi-activity trip - five nights
- Year 6 – York (to support Vikings and civilizations topic) - five nights
Beyond the Classroom
In our Junior School, learning is not just a curriculum; it's a holistic experience that shapes the character and future of each child.
We have a thriving extracurricular programme of activities to inspire and empower children to play, work and have fun together. There is a wealth of activities on offer in the Junior School as well as the longer trips and off site visits each term.
At St Chris we believe that the skills learned, and fun had within the extracurricular programme are fundamental to a fulfilled school life, and that they lead to happier, more well-rounded and confident children.
After School Clubs take place each day from 3.20 to 4.30pm, and the vast majority are included in the school fees. There are a wide range including aqua-play, drama, cooking, computing, Italian, Sign Language, Gospel choir, fencing, football, netball, yoga, First Aid, gardening and comic drawing. The programme is varied each term, and we take on board requests from pupils and their families.
Junior School children participate in a variety of sports fixtures throughout the year. Regular fixtures include football, netball, rounders, cricket and swimming galas.
St Chris has a thriving music scene. The very popular Junior School Musical Production, a real highlight of the year, is run as an After School Club with final performances in the School Theatre.
Most students enjoy taking instrumental and singing lessons provided by our large team of outstanding visiting music teachers, and we also offer LAMDA training and exams.
Celebrating Collective Success
In our Junior School, the emphasis is on building a community where classes are not divided by competition but united by collaboration. Rather than fostering internal competition, we celebrate whole-class successes. This approach creates a supportive environment where students delight in each other's achievements, enhancing friendships and creating a positive atmosphere for learning.
