Curriculum

Classes throughout the school are small with a friendly yet purposeful atmosphere. The curriculum is centred on a thorough grounding in English and mathematics with due emphasis on science, technology, art, music, history, geography, ICT, PE and Spanish. In the Infant Department (Reception to year 2 inclusive ) children are mainly taught by their form teachers, but they also benefit from specialist teaching in ICT, Spanish, music and PE. In the Junior Department (years 3 to 6 inclusive ) children are increasingly introduced to a wide range of specialist teachers which ensures high academic standards and prepares pupils well for their transition to secondary education. Avalon has an impressive pass rate in 11+ examinations for entrance to local grammar schools and in entrance exams for local independent schools.

In addition, we remain committed to a broad and balanced programme of study for every child. Where children have particular gifts, we strive to develop them. Where children need additional support for their studies, we make professional provision for it.

We are proud of our sense of community and the excellent working relationships we have between pupils and teachers. Every child is treated as an individual with different skills and with different targets to attain. We believe strongly in the role of parents in helping children fulfil their potential in their school life and we believe that homework is just one area where parents can constructively support their children’s work. Regular reporting from school to home is important but not as important as the day-to-day contact with parents that we welcome wherever possible.

Teaching at Avalon is supported by a wide range of resources including well-equipped specialist rooms for science, art and ICT. However, as well as modern resources, we still believe strongly in the key role of effective teaching and in the maintenance of high standards of effort and behaviour.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral care is a keystone to ensuring a child’s happiness and successful academic and social development. The role of the form teacher on a day-to-day basis is pivotal but the Senior Leadership Team are also actively involved and available to talk to individual children and parents whenever necessary.

We believe that our task is to prepare our children for their future role in the world and this means ensuring that they have the confidence, interpersonal skills and awareness of the needs of others to be the citizens of tomorrow. Our PSCHE programme, our system of inter-house activities, our school council and our work for worthy causes in the community all further our pupils’ development. We are very proud that our children are articulate, polite and sociable. They are encouraged by us from an early age to take responsibility for themselves and to be considerate to others.

Science principles at Avalon:

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