Curriculum and beyond
The curriculum in the Junior School is wide and varied, and is designed to engage and inspire pupils. We believe learning should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience through which everyone can achieve their potential and exceed expectations. The majority of our children progress to the senior school and achieve great success in higher education and in their chosen careers. Modern teaching methods and ICT are used widely to stimulate young minds.
View examples of work from Junior School pupils.
The Timetable
All pupils study in 40 periods of 30-35 minutes per week:
| Art/Design | Games | ICT | Physcial Education | Science |
| Design & Technology | Geography | Mathematics | PSHE | Spanish |
| English | History | Music | Religious Studies |
In addition to the main subjects, all pupils will have the opportunity to be involved in lots of other activities during the years in the Junior School:
- Courses in German, French, Cookery, First Aid, Golf , Drama
- Optional overseas trips
- Residential Adventure course
- Primary Maths Challenge Competition
- Cathedral services at the end of each term
- Visits outside school
- Visiting workshops e.g. Shakespeare and History workshops
- Music - private lessons are available on a large number of instruments
Music plays a large role in the life of the school and is extremely inclusive. From the popular choir (no auditions required) who sing at all the major school events to the orchestra which is open to all pupils who have had at least 2 terms lessons. Music is specially written for the pupils, so all standards are catered for. - Drama - The Junior School plays are renowned for their professionalism. All pupils take part in at least 2 productions in J2 and J4. Pupils are able to take part in the Chester Festival and canalso take Trinity Guildhall Examinations.
Numbers of weekly lessons per subject shown for each yeargroup
| subject | year J1 | years J2, J3 & J4 |
|---|---|---|
| English | 8 | 8 |
| Mathematics | 8 | 8 |
| Science | 2 | 3 |
| History | 2 | 2 |
| Geography | 2 | 2 |
| Technology | 2 | 2 |
| ICT | 2 | 2 |
| Art | 2 | 2 |
| Music | 2 | 2 |
| Modern Languages | 1 | 1 |
| PE | 2 | 2 |
| Games | 2 | 2 |
| PSHE | 1 | 1 |
| Religious Studies | 1 | 1 |
| Handwriting | 1 | |
| Activities | 2 | 2 |
Activities and Opportunities
In addition to these core subjects, all pupils have the opportunity to be involved in a wealth of other activities during their years in the Junior School. Opportunities include;
Information technology
Activity courses in German, cookery, First Aid, golf, kite-making, story-telling, playground games, folk art, textiles, book-making.
Optional overseas trips
Residential Adventure course
Primary Maths Challenge Competition
Theatre visits
Bi-Kingly – the school newsletter produced by our pupil editorial team
Educational visits around the region
Visiting Shakespeare and history workshops, poets, a judge, wildlife experts.
View a list of extra-curricular activites for Lent Term 2012
The Spiritual Dimension
In a secular age, King's is a school where spiritual life matters and where the curiosity of students is encouraged. Assembly is held every morning and is one example of the exploration of spiritual life within school. Through assemblies and Cathedral services, our pupils are encouraged to consider religious and moral issues that may confront them in everyday life.
This spiritual dimension strengthens the sense of community within the school and encourages each student to respond individually to the dual challenges of sacrifice and service.