Play and exploration are key components of learning in the Prep School, supporting every child’s curiosity, social development and creativity. Our curriculum is broad and engaging to develop independence, resilience and a love of learning.
Our teachers build strong partnerships with families, communicating openly and collaborating on a child’s learning journey. This way, our staff come to understand each child’s learning style and any challenges, and their learning can be personalised within the curriculum.
Common to all the stages and embedded through all learning and play are the St. Julian’s Shaper Profile and the 6Cs. From Reception to Year 4, we nurture pupils’ care for the environment through Forest School, building on what they started in Pre-Prep.
Transition from Foundation to Key Stage 1 (Year 1 & 2)
We broadly follow the National Curriculum for England with a subject-based structure, together with the international outlook of St. Julian’s. We emphasise reading, writing, listening, phonics, grammar and a love for books and language. English and Mathematics are taught separately but are also integrated into cross-curricular themes. This learning across the curriculum connects subjects such as Science, History, Geography, Art, DT, Computing, Music and PE. Topics are often inspired by pupils’ interests to make learning feel even more meaningful and relevant.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6)
In Key Stage 2, we focus on building upon the skills, knowledge and understanding developed in previous stages. Pupils are encouraged to think for themselves and make decisions about their learning. Topic lessons integrate Science, History, Geography, Art, and DT, encouraging independent research and creative presentations of learning.
Portuguese as a compulsory subject
Naturally, Portuguese is a compulsory language subject for all pupils and is taught by a specialist at different levels. In Year 6, students can also start learning German and French.
Mathematics, Science & Technology
Mathematics is taught using the White Rose Scheme with an approach that uses physical and visual aids to develop conceptual understanding and real-life application. Science learning is practical and inquiry-based, encouraging children to ask questions, experiment and explore the world around them. Technology integration includes weekly Computing lessons with a specialist and class use of iPads to enhance digital literacy.
PE, Art & Music
Specialist teachers for PE, Art and Music give pupils the highest quality experiences. Pupils enjoy a range of opportunities to foster physical development, artistic awareness and musical understanding, often connected to broader learning themes.
