The School Curriculum
'The school provides a curriculum that is broad, balanced and relevant to the ages, needs and interests of the pupils.' OFSTED 2000 Teaching and learning at Shefford Lower is based on detailed schemes of work that ensure appropriate coverage of the National Curriculum. Members of staff work in teams to plan the curriculum for each year group thereby ensuring equality of opportunity. Twelve subjects are taught at our school as part of the National Curriculum. The following summary provides only a brief description of the content, organisation and aims of the school's curriculum. Greater detail about the teaching and learning undertaken may be obtained from the school. |  |
 | Literacy This subject encompasses children's development in the following areas: Speaking and Listening Reading Writing Spelling Handwriting English is taught following the structure and progression of the National Literacy Strategy. Speaking and Listening Children are encouraged to express themselves effectively and communicate appropriately with adults and their peers. These skills are an important part of their social development and are developed through a range of discussion and group activities, role play and drama. Reading The ability to read is fundamental to learning and our aim is for children to become competent and enthusiastic readers. We use a shared approach to reading that values children, parents and teachers working in partnership to foster an enjoyment of books. Reading record books provide an important link between home and school. There are opportunities for reading throughout the day, across the curriculum. Children are encouraged to read and discuss a range of books together, in groups with an adult and individually. They choose books to read at home each week from our library. The school promotes reading through participation in national events such as World Book Day when children are encouraged to dress as a character from one of their favourite books and opportunities are given to children to purchase new books through book sales and the PTA run Book Club. Writing Children are taught to join letters once they are able to correctly form them individually. Children are given opportunities to express themselves through writing for a variety of different purposes and audiences. They are encouraged to take pride in their work and apply the grammar, punctuation and spelling skills they have been taught. Spelling All children in years 1-4 are taught the 'Look,Say,Cover,Write and Check' method for learning spellings. Spellings are taught in groups of most commonly used words and similar sounds or letter strings. Children use dictionaries and word books to support their spelling in the classroom. Spelling is taught following the National Literacy Strategy's phonic progression and linked to handwriting exercises. Spellings are sent home weekly and tested in school. |
| Numeracy Mathematics is a core curriculum subject and is taught daily at Shefford Lower. It is important that children learn and understand the processes and are able to apply them to everyday situations with confidence. |  |
 | Science Through scientific activities the children acquire and develop skills, knowledge, understanding and attitudes to help them understand themselves and the world around them. Science teaching is topic based to motivate and interest the children. We provide opportunities for scientific enquiry through practical investigations and observations. Science is also involved in technological activities so that children may have the opportunity to solve real problems and apply their skills. |
| Information, Communication Technology We have a new computer suite of fifteen computers. Presently all classrooms are equipped with two computers. Staff make use of ICT as a resource for teaching and learning across the curriculum and children are taught specific ICT skills for communication and presentation. Children are able to use the library computer for research, to find books and to scan their books in and out of the library. Four classrooms and the ICT Suite have interactive whiteboards and plans are in place to install this technology in all classrooms. |  |
| Foundation Subjects |