We believe the most effective learning environment is achieved when the best of traditional methods are combined with tested and proven modern approaches; where children are happy, motivated, challenged and inspired. Children possess varied styles of learning: our staff seek to adapt their teaching methods to suit individual needs.
Children in the Pre-Preparatory Department (aged 3-7) are taught in small classes. There are two parallel forms in each year group. Each class has its own experienced teacher with a full-time classroom assistant as well as additional welfare and special educational needs support. The children are taught according to the framework of the National Curriculum, taking Key Stage One SATs at the end of Year Two. In addition, they pursue a range of subjects and activities designed to provide a broad and balanced curriculum. The curriculum for the Preparatory Department (aged 7-13) is based on the requirements of the National Curriculum and, where applicable, Secondary School Entrance to the age of 11+, and of Common Entrance and Scholarship through to the age of 13+. All children sit Key Stage Two SATs at the end of Year 6, and Scholarship or Entrance Exams during Year 8.
The School believes strongly in the benefits of a broad education through which individual strengths can be discovered and nurtured. Hence, the use of Information Technology is encouraged throughout the school, and taught from Year 3. French is taught from Year 2, Latin from Year 5, and History, Geography, Religious Studies, Music, Drama, Dance, Art, DT, Games, PE and Swimming are all taught within the timetabled curriculum.
For the next stage of their education, pupils have entered a variety of Secondary Schools in the Midlands, many with the benefit of valuable academic, music, art, drama or sports scholarships. Now that the Cathedral School is developing its own secondary education, most children will continue right through the School to 18. The Headmaster and Director of Studies give presentations and advice to parents and children on all aspects of future education which in the future will include work experience and careers. From the age of 7, children are divided into four Houses for sports and other competitions, through which they receive rewards for effort and industry in all aspects of school life. All children in Year 8, currently the final year, gain positions of special responsibility and leadership. Great importance is attached to good manners. Rules are deliberately kept to a minimum. However, everyone is expected to hold high standards of behaviour.