‘Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.’ ― Benjamin Franklin
Children learn in many different ways and at different rates. With today’s technology on hand to assist, learning is fun, enjoyable and memorable. Our goal is to give each child an opportunity to realise that they might not know how to do something ‘yet’. This makes every lesson a challenge and gives our children a determination to keep practising and experimenting.
In Reception classes the children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, where they learn personal, social and emotional skills, improve their communication and language skills and develop physically. Reading, Writing and Mathematics are taught as dedicated lessons and are extended through imaginative and purposeful play. The beautiful, historical setting helps children to understand the world around them and modern technology opens doors of discovery. Learning is not confined to inside the classroom but is enhanced through exploration in the Forest School and getting stuck into jobs on the Farm. The natural talent and curiosity of each child is allowed to develop as they express themselves artistically, musically or dramatically.
In Years 1 and 2 the children are taught in dedicated lessons of Literacy, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Computer Science, French, Music, PE and RE. Practical activities, group learning, reporting and recording are all ways that children can share what they have learned with others and consolidate their own understanding. Taking their learning outside allows the children to put into practice their knowledge and helps them to solve everyday problems, recording the number of eggs laid this week or deciding on the best angle at which to lay the logs when building a shelter in the Forest School.
Getting the learning right for each individual depends on experienced, highly-qualified class teachers and teaching assistants, working together with parents and specialist staff. The family atmosphere helps children to feel confident to aim high academically, musically and on the sports pitch. Music, PE and French are specialist taught subjects.
By the time the children have finished Year 2, they are ready to begin the next exciting journey through the Prep School. Time is spent preparing them for this transition and children leave the Pre-Prep with a greater independence and confidence in their own abilities, socially and emotionally equipped for the challenges ahead. They are curious, imaginative, able to actively problem solve and think critically. All children are academically tracked from Nursery onwards and achievement is above the nationally expected levels.
The essence of the Nursery and Pre-Prep curriculum is one of care, continuity and careful planning of lessons; delivered within a department which values each individual child’s efforts to achieve the best that they can.
My children changed schools in yr 2 & yr 4 and they settled in instantly. The school has a lovely family feel, the staff do a brilliant job inspiring the children. Both my girls weren't particularly sporty when they arrived but both grew to love sport and my eldest has carried that through into senior school. The music is also exceptional, you really feel your children come away with a well rounded education not just academic. Both my girls have got into their senior schools of choice and I am sad to say farewell to Saint Ronan's but thank you for all you have done for my children. Highly recommended.
Hayley S
This is a real gem, right at the top of its game. The children are loved and cared for by the entire staff. I wish I had had the opportunity many years ago. They achieve so much by example, gentleness and kindness. Floret St Ronan's and long may you continue to flourish.
Terry D
Saint Ronans is quite unique and magical.. the children work hard and play equally hard... the teachers are approachable and your child will flourish... our daughter has taken every opportunity and through all her own self motivated hard work turned herself into an amazing all rounder who is thriving in sports, academics and music. What’s not to like.
Sharon B
