Overview of the Lower Primary Department

The Lower Primary Years uphold principles based on an educational philosophy designed for young children and focus on those first entering the academic environment. These years offer a Foundation programme and the first two years of primary education (Saltus Years 1 and 2) for students between the ages of four and six.

The curriculum for the Foundation Year reflects internationally identified areas of Early Years Learning. Each learning area has Early Learning Goals. These set out the skills, understanding, knowledge and attitudes, which it is anticipated children will reach or exceed by the end of their Foundation Year. The Early Years education is based on the following principles:

• It builds on what our children already know and can do

• It ensures that no child is disadvantaged

• It offers a structure for learning that has a range of starting points, content that matches the needs of young children, and activity that provides opportunities for learning both indoors and outdoors

• It provides a rich and stimulating environment

The curriculum for Saltus Years 1 and 2 consists of core academic subjects: Maths, Reading and English, including Spelling, Verbal Skills and Writing. Music, Physical Education, Art, Crafts, Life Skills, Science and Thematic Work supplement it. There is also an emphasis on learning through play. Extra learning support in the areas of Reading, Spelling, Maths and Writing Skills is provided in small groups by two Centre for Learning teachers dedicated to this section of the school. School work is individualised to cater to the differing needs of each student wherever possible and appropriate. Parental involvement is encouraged during the school day, both in and out of classrooms, and many parents assist the teaching staff, turning the educational ideal of cooperation between the home and school into a dynamic reality.

Students remain with their classroom teacher all day, with the exception of P.E., Music and Centre for Learning services. Teachers’ aides help in the Foundation Year, Year 1 and 2 classrooms and with play and lunch supervision.

During the school year, students are encouraged to participate in as many events outside of school as possible. These include such things as colouring competitions and Island-wide sporting events. Also, students go on a variety of field trips and are made aware of those less fortunate than themselves. They are encouraged to raise funds for various charities. An annual sports afternoon involves every child in a variety of events, including novelty and team races and those in which parents and younger siblings participate. Highlights of the year also include the Christmas concerts to which parents are invited, Easter egg-rolling, class assemblies and finally, at year’s end, a Leavers’ Concert marking the children’s final week in Lower Primary and their move to the Upper Primary Years.

You may access a copy of the Parent Handbooks for Lower Primary using the links below:

Foundation Year Parent Handbook

Lower Primary Parent Handbook

Whole School Policies