Upper School curriculum

(click here to download curriculum as pdf)

The Upper School at St Winifred's includes Forms 3, 4, 5 and 6.

The teaching timetable for the Upper School takes into account the requirements of the National Curriculum Key Stage 2. The progress of pupils is monitored and their performance measured to encourage the best potential in every child.

The pupils are assessed through internal examinations and tests and through the use of the optional SATS of the relevant year group.

Pupils in Year 6 sit internal examinations and are given standardised tests. They are also assessed though the Standard Assessment Tasks and Tests in May. These tests are marked externally.

Pupils in Years 5 and 6 are prepared for entrance examinations for entry into the secondary schools of their choice.

Upper School pupils are provided with ample opportunities to develop and reinforce their knowledge and skills in the following subjects:  

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Information, Communication and Technology (ICT)
• History
• Geography
• Religious Education
• Music
• Drama
• Art
• Design and Technology
• Physical Education, including gymnastics, swimming and games
• French
• German, in Year 6
• Personal, Social and Health Education

Pupils also develop their library and research skills, and their ICT skills are gradually being incorporated as a tool throughout the curriculum.

Pupils' experiences are enhanced by the option of various extra curricula activities which are on offer. Individual and group lessons can also be arranged for musical instrument tuition at an extra cost.

Before and after school sessions are available on a regular basis in term time.

Pupils' specific needs are continually monitored to identify any weaknesses, in order to develop strategies of teaching, appropriate to each child and learning support is given by a specialist support teacher where necessary.

Specialist subject teachers are used to teach various subjects in the curriculum and there are a number of specialist subject rooms used by pupils in the upper school.

Pupils' experiences are further enhanced by their participation in various special events throughout the school calendar e.g. the School Sports day, the Swimming gala, the School Speech day and musical play etc. Children in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 are also provided with many challenges, personal and group, through house competitions, individual projects and competitions, and through the Trinity College Effective Communication Examinations

Above all, the Upper school pupils are taught citizenship skills, encouraging them to show respect and consideration to others, to develop good behaviour and a sense of  responsibility and to respond to the demands of today's society effectively.