In common with most primary schools, Ballacottier School has three distinct Key Stages. These are Foundation Stage, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
Foundation Stage
The Foundation Stage at Ballacottier School is the Reception Class - the first class your child will join when starting school. (Age 4-5 years)
Key Stage 1
This phase of schooling refers to Year 1 and Year 2. (Age 5-7 years)
Key Stage 2
Key Stage 2 incorporates Years 3 to 6 inclusive. (Age 7-11 years)
Infants – Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1.
Juniors – Key Stage 2.
EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE (EYFS) CURRICULUM
The Foundation Stage curriculum allows children to learn through play by being active, encouraging them to explore, to talk about their learning and to practise skills. It consists of seven areas of learning:
Three prime areas:
- Personal, social and emotional development
- Communication and language
- Physical development
Four specific areas:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding of the world
- Expressive arts and design
In Reception, the children do not follow a formal timetable as such. A significant amount of their learning activities will take place outdoors also.
Children’s learning will be assessed continuously throughout the first year of school and recorded on each child’s Foundation Stage Profile.
The National Curriculum at Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2 consists of ten subjects which all children must study at school. They are :-
Core Subjects: -
English
Mathematics
Science
Foundation Subjects: -
Geography
Music
Art and Design
ICT
History
Physical Education
Design Technology
PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) / Citizenship
All pupils also take part in Religious Education.
In addition pupils in Y4 ,Y5 and Y6 study the Manx language.
Throughout the school year these subjects are planned and organised in a manner that enables the school to provide a broad and balanced curriculum.