Teaching and Learning

We believe that children make the best progress when they are fully engaged in their learning. Through precise and thorough planning, high quality teaching and informative assessment children progress well, become confident thinkers and achieve high standards. With excellent subject knowledge, teachers ensure that lessons are meaningful, stimulating and challenging. St Mary’s children love difficult work. When they find something difficult they do not get anxious – they have a go and use what they know to take the next step. St Mary’s children are resilient, resourceful and reflective. During their time at school, children are continually assessed, both formally and informally, so that their attainments and achievements can be recorded and the next steps in their learning planned appropriately. At the age of 7, the end of Key Stage 1, teachers use tests to support their own assessment of your child’s level of achievement. At the age of 11, which is the end of Key Stage 2, all children sit National Curriculum tests known as SATs (Standard Assessment Tests). These show how your child is doing and where he or she may need extra help. An outline of the programme of study for each child is sent to parents each term. This enables parents to support their children’s work. Parents receive an annual report on their child’s achievements and progress at the end of each academic year.