DEFINITION

Key Stage 1 - Years 3 and 4

Key Stage 2 - Years 5, 6 and 7

INTRODUCTION

Children in Key Stages 1 and 2 build upon and develop the experiences provided at the Foundation Stage. Continued emphasis is placed on personal, social and emotional development as well as an explicit emphasis on the development of skills in Communication, Using Mathematics, Using ICT and Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. Children are provided with opportunities to develop these skills through a range of worthwhile, challenging, relevant and enjoyable learning experiences.

THE AIMS OF KEY STAGES 1 AND 2

Learning at Key Stages 1 and 2 continues to foster the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, cultural, moral and spiritual development of children by:

• providing opportunities for children to continue to develop the transferable skills of Communication, Using Mathematics, Using ICT and Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities through the opportunities provided;
• developing self-confidence and self-esteem;
• developing the skills necessary to enable children to participate as contributing members of groups;
• providing opportunities for children to engage in exploration, problem-solving and decision-making;
• promoting, in children, positive attitudes to learning to help them make informed and responsible choices and decisions;
• continuing to develop children’s creativity;
• using a range of strategies, including thematic approaches, in a wide range of contexts which are worthwhile, challenging, relevant and enjoyable;
• developing a greater depth of knowledge, understanding and skills through a wide range of contexts;
• providing opportunities for children to express their individual needs and to make realistic choices.

THE CURRICULUM IN KEY STAGES 1 AND 2

Children at Key Stages 1 and 2 will have explicit emphasis on developing skills in Communication, Using Mathematics, Using ICT and Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities.

The following Areas of Learning will be followed:

• Language and Literacy including Talking and Listening, Reading and Writing;
• Mathematics and Numeracy focusing on the development of mathematical concepts and numeracy across the curriculum;
• The Arts including Art and Design, Drama and Music;
• The World Around Us focusing on the development of knowledge, skills and understanding in Geography, History and Science and Technology;
• Personal Development and Mutual Understanding focusing on emotional development, social skills, learning to learn, health, relationships and sexuality education and mutual understanding in the local and global community;
• Physical Education focusing on the development of knowledge, skills and understanding through play and a range of physical activities.
• Religious Education in accordance with the core syllabus drafted by the Catholic Church and specified by the Department of Education.