Lower School
For Years 1 to 6 Curriculum Overviews This is intended as a general guide and some topics/texts may change depending on teachers’ choices, current interests and the children’s interests and needs.
Lower School Expectations
At The Independent Grammar School: Durham, we believe that high expectations, excellent behaviour and strong routines are essential in helping pupils achieve their full potential. In Lower School, we encourage pupils to develop independence, resilience and pride in their learning as they progress through Years 1–6. We expect all pupils to: • Be respectful, polite and kind to others • Listen carefully and follow instructions promptly • Always try their best and take pride in their work • Demonstrate excellent behaviour and positive attitudes to learning • Be organised and prepared for lessons • Show resilience and perseverance when learning becomes challenging • Take responsibility for their actions and behaviour We aim to create a calm, purposeful and supportive learning environment where every child feels safe, valued and encouraged to succeed. Readiness for Learning Pupils should arrive at school each day: • On time and ready to learn • In full and correct school uniform • With the correct equipment, including reading books, homework and any resources required for the day • Prepared to participate positively in lessons and school life As pupils move through Lower School, we encourage increasing levels of independence and responsibility to help prepare them for Upper School and beyond. Homework and Reading Regular reading and home learning are important parts of a child’s education. Pupils are expected to: • Read regularly at home • Complete homework to a high standard and on time • Practise key skills such as spelling, times tables and handwriting • Develop good study habits and organisational skills Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children’s learning and helping to establish positive routines at home. Behaviour and Attitudes We expect pupils to show excellent behaviour both in and outside of the classroom. This includes: • Respecting staff, visitors and other pupils • Looking after school property and resources • Demonstrating good manners at all times • Working cooperatively with others • Representing the school positively By maintaining high standards and encouraging positive attitudes from an early age, we help pupils develop the confidence, character and academic foundations needed for future success.
Lower School Expectations
At The Independent Grammar School: Durham, we believe that high expectations, excellent behaviour and strong routines are essential in helping pupils achieve their full potential. In Lower School, we encourage pupils to develop independence, resilience and pride in their learning as they progress through Years 1–6. We expect all pupils to: • Be respectful, polite and kind to others • Listen carefully and follow instructions promptly • Always try their best and take pride in their work • Demonstrate excellent behaviour and positive attitudes to learning • Be organised and prepared for lessons • Show resilience and perseverance when learning becomes challenging • Take responsibility for their actions and behaviour We aim to create a calm, purposeful and supportive learning environment where every child feels safe, valued and encouraged to succeed. Readiness for Learning Pupils should arrive at school each day: • On time and ready to learn • In full and correct school uniform • With the correct equipment, including reading books, homework and any resources required for the day • Prepared to participate positively in lessons and school life As pupils move through Lower School, we encourage increasing levels of independence and responsibility to help prepare them for Upper School and beyond. Homework and Reading Regular reading and home learning are important parts of a child’s education. Pupils are expected to: • Read regularly at home • Complete homework to a high standard and on time • Practise key skills such as spelling, times tables and handwriting • Develop good study habits and organisational skills Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children’s learning and helping to establish positive routines at home. Behaviour and Attitudes We expect pupils to show excellent behaviour both in and outside of the classroom. This includes: • Respecting staff, visitors and other pupils • Looking after school property and resources • Demonstrating good manners at all times • Working cooperatively with others • Representing the school positively By maintaining high standards and encouraging positive attitudes from an early age, we help pupils develop the confidence, character and academic foundations needed for future success.
