At Folly Hill we aim to provide a broad and balanced education giving children first-hand experiences and encouraging independence and creativity.

The children in the Reception Class follow the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage to achieve the Early Learning Goals. Each child has an Individual Pupil Profile, which is shared with the parents once a term.

Children in Years 1 and 2 are working at Key Stage 1 of the National Curriculum. At this stage the curriculum is divided into core and foundation subjects, as follows:

Core subjects

• English
• Mathematics
• Science

Foundation subjects

• Information Communication Technology
• History
• Geography
• Music
• Art
• Design Technology
• PE
• RE

Children experience many areas of the curriculum through our own Schemes of Work, which are carefully planned to allow for continuity and progression through the age range attending the school. The basic skills of reading, writing and mathematics are taught both within topic work and separately as considered appropriate.

English and Mathematics are introduced formally and developed carefully, using the Primary Strategy, which incorporates the national Numeracy and Literacy Strategies, alongside our own Schemes of Work.  In mathematics we use concrete materials and practical experiences alongside formal work so that children gain real understanding.

We aim to encourage children to be flexible in their thinking, to develop an ability to observe, reflect, enquire and come to rational conclusions with self-confidence, and to express themselves in a variety of ways.  We believe that it is important for the children to discover the joy of learning through first-hand experiences and the mastery of skills through their own endeavour.

With today's rapid technological advances, children need to become skilled independent learners from an early age. Children at Folly Hill School have frequent access to equipment such as computers, interactive whiteboards, calculators and tape recorders as well as other recently introduced technological equipment such as a video and digital cameras. They are taught to use these carefully and effectively.

Opportunities to explore and investigate topics based on environmental, mathematical, scientific, historical and geographical ideas are provided. Creative activities such as technology, music, art, drama, cooking and sewing are also included.

Through assemblies and RE lessons, an awareness of the needs of others and a sense of community are fostered and attitudes of tolerance, sympathy, sensitivity and self-discipline promoted.