JUNIOR SCHOOL PROSPECTUS Entry September 2021
2
WELCOME I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
WELCOME TO THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
‘Pupils develop convincing self-understanding and confidence from an early age. They have a positive outlook and are clear that they can become whoever they want to be in the school’s open and supportive environment’ Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2019
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I WELCOME
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
3
4
WELCOME I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL as individuals, supported in their endeavours within an incredibly nurturing and safe environment. Staff take time to get to know pupils: their likes, dislikes and interests outside of school. This enables them to tailor the curriculum to ensure that the needs of all pupils are met and that lessons are structured to inspire and engage the entire class.
W
elcome to the Junior School, where pupils make their first marks on the blank canvas of their St Dunstan’s shield as they begin their College adventure, learning who they are and discovering a love of learning from the earliest stages. Our highly skilled and dedicated Junior School team strikes the perfect balance between academic rigour, exploratory play and a personalised approach to learning. Pupils are at the heart of what we do and they are encouraged to develop the self-confidence to thrive
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
Themes are interwoven through a broad and balanced curriculum, and whether it is rocket-launches on the field, an environmental protest on the playground, or a West End-worthy performance in our Great Hall, no day is the same! Our pupils thrive from our forward-thinking and ambitious approach to education, where they are well-prepared for the unexpected of tomorrow’s world and ready to embrace any challenges that may come their way in the future. We are a coeducational Junior School integrated within a wider College community. Pupils in the Junior School benefit from both having a Form Teacher who will deliver the majority of the curriculum to them, as well as the expertise of specialist teachers in PE, swimming and games, music, art and languages. Enrichment
opportunities, a small-class setting and the first-class facilities we will access as we move to our new building mid-academic year 2020-2021, mean that all pupils are supported to be appropriately challenged, inspired and encouraged to achieve their potential and reach their goals. The best way for you to be able to feel the energy of the pupils and staff, and truly understand how exciting school life is here at St Dunstan’s College, would be for you to visit us in person. I strongly encourage you to come and see our school in action. We host several open mornings at various points in the school year (the dates and booking form are detailed on the College website) and these include tours led by our pupils, who are very proud of being part of the St Dunstan’s community, and who will happily offer insight on their own personal school journey. I look forward to welcoming you to St Dunstan’s Junior School soon.
Miss Laura Whitwood Head of Junior School
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I WELCOME
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
5
6
NEW BUILDING WORKS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
OUR NEW AMBITIOUS JUNIOR SCHOOL St Dunstan’s College is currently undergoing its most significant redevelopment since its foundation in 1888.
There is no better time to join St Dunstan’s College Junior School. True to our forward-thinking and ambitious approach to education, we are absolutely delighted to share with you the building development currently underway on our main College site. We are transforming the west side of the College, building an architecturally stunning Junior School, a Sixth Form Centre and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) block.
complete in summer 2021, will provide bright, modern and stimulating state-ofthe-art working environments, as well as dedicated specialist spaces for art, music and performances. In addition, a specific focus on outdoor learning spaces is featured on all three floors and whether your child is in Nursery or Year 6, they will have their own dedicated outdoor learning space. Redesigned Junior School playing fields and two multi-use games areas (MUGAs) will also ensure pupils have unrestricted access to age-appropriate, exceptional sporting facilities.
Our new Junior School, due to
In addition to this, the building of a new
3
2
woodland classroom is already complete ready for September 2020, complete with a pond, campfire and bug hotel! With the new Junior School building as the first phase of a five phase project, your child will reap the benefits of our first-class facilities from their very first day in school, through to their final day of Sixth Form. We continue to actively fundraise for three additional projects: a new Performing Arts Centre (PAC), a Plaza which will be both a CCF parade square and an outdoor performance venue, and an expanded and enhanced Sport and Leisure Centre.
6
1
4 7 5
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
KEY 1. STEM Block 2. Sixth Form Hub 3. Junior School MUGA 4. Junior School 5.’The Plaza’ 6. Sport and Leisure Centre 7. Performing Arts Centre
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I NEW BUILDING WORKS
‘This represents the most significant re-development of our College sites since the very first bricks were laid’
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
7
8
PRE-PREP EARLY YEARS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
PRE-PREP : EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE NURSERY & RECEPTION Pupils are directors of their own learning. Using the Early Years Curriculum as a basis for our planning, each child is stimulated and challenged through a personalised and bespoke curriculum.
We are a community of learners: teachers undertake investigations with pupils, encouraging curiosity and wonder in order that they can discover the excitement of learning whilst modelling positive learning behaviours such as asking questions, taking risks and making mistakes. Pupils develop key skills through experiences, which are based on their personal interests, where they feel safe and secure asking questions at this critical stage of development.
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) staff at St Dunstan’s understand the importance of developing the key social, emotional, communication and physical skills that underpin all areas of the curriculum and which children need in order to experience academic success throughout their school career. Teachers have a high level of knowledge and regard every moment and observation as a teaching and learning opportunity. Spontaneous moments such as playing in the snow, a child’s new pet or observing our school construction site are used
as a basis for planning rich learning experiences. In essence, our curriculum is bespoke to a particular cohort and their needs; it is ever-evolving and we respond to what we see and know about the children in order that everyone is able to achieve their very best. Our highly experienced teachers and teaching assistants provide children and families with a continuity of care throughout the foundation stage, in preparation to begin Key Stage 1. The strong communication between
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I PRE-PREP EARLY YEARS
‘Nursery children are enthusiastic when sorting different shaped blocks, learning numbers and developing their communication skills by playing imaginative games with each other’ Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2019
teachers ensures that our pupils are well supported and prepared for their transition from Nursery to Reception and Reception to Year 1. Pupils who attend our Nursery enter Reception confident and ready to learn because their emotional and social needs are considered and catered for from the very first day they join us. Our EYFS pupils benefit from the wonderful resources on offer at St Dunstan’s, including science laboratories, visits to our kitchen, the sports hall and the swimming pool, providing our Nursery pupils with a variety of rich experiences outside of the classroom setting. Each week our children receive lessons from specialist staff in PE, swimming, languages and music, as well as optional after-school activities such as football, multi-skills and drama. Pupils relish the opportunity to share their learning and positive experiences with their families throughout the year at assemblies, performances and on Sports Day. We really see the EYFS as the first stepping stones of what will be an exciting and individualised St Dunstan’s College journey. With experienced and knowledgeable staff, who engender a culture of discovery, achievement and cement a love of learning at the very first stages, every pupil is able to thrive in the safe and secure environment we create.
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
9
10
PRE-PREP I   S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
PRE-PREP : YEARS 1 & 2 Our children have a wide variety of exciting experiences during their time in Pre-Prep. We believe that we have a very important job to nurture curiosity and independence from an early age. Academic and pastoral needs are of equal importance: a kind word to your friend is valued and celebrated as much as effort made during classroom tasks and activities. Children in Pre-Prep are taught phonics through daily sessions using
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
a range of memorable and interactive programmes. Pupils reinforce their phonological awareness through spelling and handwriting lessons, where they learn to read and write using a cursive, joined script. Using high-quality texts as a stimuli, pupils are given the opportunity to write in a
variety of styles and genres. In the first instance in mathematics, there is a strong emphasis on developing the children’s core number and calculation skills. Pupils engage in practical tasks to cement their understanding using concrete
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I PRE-PREP
resources, before moving on to more formal calculation methods. In Year 1, pupils begin weekly lessons in reasoning, where they are taught skills and strategies to support mental maths and problem solving. During their time in Pre-Prep, pupils benefit from weekly lessons delivered by specialist teachers in music, languages, ICT, PE, swimming and games. From Year 1, art is taught as a skills-based discrete subject in our well-equipped art room, as well as creatively through topic based learning and thematic projects linked to core curriculum subjects. As our pupils grow and develop, so too do the challenges they face, as they reach Years 1 and 2. They begin their journey into the world of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and are able to understand and appreciate links between the humanities and science through exciting and thought-provoking topics. They also begin their Skills for Life lessons. These give the pupils the space to question and explore the world beyond their set subjects, looking at issues such as relationships, physical and mental health, and developing a greater understanding of the wider world.
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
11
12
PREP I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
PREP : YEARS 3 - 6 Prep consists of Years 3 to 6 and with increased independence comes further opportunities to take part in many areas of Junior School life.
Pupils benefit from a greater variety of subjects and specialist teachers. The curriculum is tailored to the values, ethos and expectations of our College by subject coordinators and then further adapted by Form Teachers to ensure that they provide a consistent yet personalised learning experience, meeting all the needs of the pupils. We ensure that pupils are appropriately challenged and able to develop higher order thinking. This is particularly evident in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). As well as developing knowledge, skills
and understanding about a particular concept, pupils are also encouraged to make links across subjects and contextualise their learning to the real world. Pupils have the opportunity to learn in a variety of different ways to cater for a range of learning styles.
range from calligraphy to sporty statistics, coding to mindfulness – all pupils are given the opportunity to delve into topics and skills that truly interest them. Forder activities are also available to pupils before, during and after school.
They can also take full advantage of the vast co-curricular offering. The Forder Programme, (named after one of our first visionary Headmasters, Revd Forder), enables each pupil to select an activity that interests them during timetabled lessons. These
Pupils are encouraged to take more responsibility for their academic progress through their Learning Scores, and they are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school community. At St Dunstan’s College, we believe in encouraging positive learning behaviours which are then reflected in the Learning Scores. Pupils are actively supported to consider their subject engagement, response to feedback, organisation, independence and collaboration. Ownership and development in these areas are pupil driven to build a foundation for a positive attitude and outlook towards lifelong learning. Pupils who demonstrate strong learning behaviours are also selected to be Learning Mentors for the class as role models to others. There is always an air of excitement in the Prep and never a dull moment: from an array of specialist workshops and educational visits, to pupils taking part in many sporting fixtures and performances. The learning journey for each pupil is individual to them and enhanced through our holistic approach to education.
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I PREP
‘I love the weekly challenge of the Year 5 Estimation Station. All the different activities we do help me to consider different strategies and approaches to problem solving’ Year 5 Pupil
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
13
14
THE IPC I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
THE INTERNATIONAL PRIMARY CURRICULUM In the Junior School, history, geography and science (and art in Pre-Prep) are taught using the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Through exciting, cross-curricular thematic units, such as Temples, Tombs and Treasures, Space Explorers and Saving the World, Junior School pupils begin to recognise the independence and interdependence of history, geography and science, which, in turn, enables them to make purposeful links and connections throughout their learning. Embedded within each unit is the development of international mindedness which allows children to develop their understanding of different cultural and global perspectives on current issues. Pupils launch into a new unit each term or half-term through an entry point activity. The activity, be it a trip, a workshop or a themed day at school, fires the imagination and gets everyone
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
excited and engaged in the theme. It also provides a common platform so that every pupil has an experience to draw from as they progress through the unit. Over the course of the topic, pupils develop their knowledge, skills and understanding and become fully immersed in their studies through rigorous, collaborative and memorable learning activities that appeal to all learning styles and are relevant for all children of all abilities. Each unit culminates in an exit point. From space exhibitions and rocket launches to historical parades, children take great joy in sharing their learning with members of the St Dunstan’s community.
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I THE IPC
‘In IPC, we learn about really fun things like Ancient Greece. My favourite was designing a Greek pot with a story on and making it out of clay’ Year 1 Pupil
‘I really enjoy IPC because every lesson and topic is different and always interesting. I really like the fact that sometimes the lesson is in the classroom, sometimes in the playground or even on the field!’ Year 5 Pupil
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
15
16
THE FORDER PROGRAMME I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
THE FORDER PROGRAMME In the Junior School, we truly value and recognise the importance of an exciting and extensive co‑curricular programme. Pupils benefit from an allencompassing co-curricular offering, which enables them to develop their skills, broaden their understanding of the wider world and discover new passions and talents. It allows all pupils to immerse themselves in creative, physical and often
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
challenging activities, alongside various opportunities to develop leadership skills and work on team-building. In addition to a wide range of sport, music, art and drama activities, we offer an extensive range of clubs,
which change on a termly basis. These include activities such as debating, philosophy, current affairs, calligraphy, yoga, code breakers, LAMDA and chess. All pupils are expected to fully engage with all areas of the programme to
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I THE FORDER PROGRAMME
ensure they establish a breadth in their co-curricular programme from the outset of their time at St Dunstan’s. Activities take place before school, at lunchtime, during Form Time and after school. In Prep, two additional timetabled lesson times are devoted to our co-curricular programme. Activity options are available to pupils from Reception to Year 6 with over 60 clubs available to pupils every week – there is so much to look forward to! Where an activity is particularly popular, we repeat it over multiple terms to ensure that all pupils who are interested are able to sign-up. The breadth and range of options available aims to cater for the needs, tastes and interests of all our pupils.
‘I like the Forder Programme because you can choose your activities at least twice a week. It is really special that we use lesson time to learn a completely new skill’. Year 6 Pupil
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
17
18
THE JUNIOR SCHOOL I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
19
20
SKILLS FOR LIFE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
SKILLS FOR LIFE Pupil wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do in the Junior School. Our Skills for Life curriculum enables pupils to develop their spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical understanding. In their weekly lessons, pupils learn about community, their role within society and the opportunities and responsibilities they have as citizens and individuals within a broader life context. We encourage pupils to consider the positive impact of adopting a growth mindset: embracing and not fearing challenges, developing resilience and learning strategies to have awareness of and be able to regulate their emotions.
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
Whilst these lessons are integral to our Skills for Life curriculum, they also form the core of our whole-school aims and values. We aim to help pupils develop attributes and characteristics that will enable them to thrive as individuals and members of society and to contribute positively to the communities in which they belong. We also include ethical and philosophical debate, as well as an introduction to Mindfulness.
‘It’s good for helping us to speak openly and honestly about our beliefs, emotions and feelings’ Year 4 Pupil
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I COMMUNITY OUTREACH
COMMUNITY OUTREACH In the Junior School, we aim to instil a sense of commitment and responsibility within our local community.
Meaningful opportunities offered to pupils allow them to understand the role they play not only within their home and school community, but also locally and within the wider world. From small acts of kindness to larger scale charity projects, we host many events and run programmes to deepen pupils’ understanding of the role they play in supporting others and the community within which they live. We hope that in doing so, they are developing their sense of empathy,
gratitude and compassion towards others. Junior School representatives take part in a whole-school Charity Committee, deciding each term who should be supported by the College in our various charitable events, for example supporting the ‘Hello Yellow’ Young Minds campaign on World Mental Health Day or Save the Children on Christmas Jumper Day. In addition, our Forder Programme includes pupils venturing into the local community
to learn more about our environment and fellow-citizens within it. We endeavour to host events within the local community and invite the public to various performances, presentations and workshops within our St Dunstan’s Festival in the Trinity Term. We also make the most of our local environment by hosting the Junior School Harvest Festival and Carol Service at St Laurence’s Church, Catford and instrumental concerts at St Bartholomew’s Church, Sydenham.
‘Pupils show compassion and kindness for each other and have a discernable appreciation for their community and the world beyond’ Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2019
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
21
22
PUPIL VOICE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
TOMORROW’S LEADERS PUPIL VOICE Pupils are provided with a range of opportunities to contribute towards the strategic vision of the College and there is an emphasis on ‘pupil voice’ throughout their school experience.
Each year in the Junior School, the College endeavours to increase the roles and responsibilities available to pupils, as their awareness of whole-College matters develops alongside their ability and confidence to articulate their views. The Junior School actively seeks opinions, ideas and suggestions from pupils; their decision-making contributes directly to school improvement and target setting. The pupils are at the heart of our school community and it is therefore essential that their voice is heard by enabling them to partake in roles and duties where they feel their contribution is valued, welcomed and has a wider whole-College purpose. Our Pupil Council representatives meet on a weekly basis, comprising of one pupil per class from Year 2 to Year 6. The Junior School Pupil Council form part of a wider wholeCollege Pupil Parliament (including representatives throughout the College from Year 2 to Sixth Form), who meet on a termly basis at our G8 Summit at the Council Chamber in Catford to report to one another the progress they have made working on
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
particular projects and celebrate the differences they have made to the College community. Their ideas from these meetings also feed into our wider College Development Plan. Playground Pals are selected in Year 6 following an application process and they then take the lead in training our Year 2 representatives. This role is taken incredibly seriously by the pupils involved who actively seek to promote positive play, inclusive friendships and generally have an overview of pupils on the playground to ensure that everyone is happy and enjoying their experience during playtime. When pupils are in Year 6, additional responsibilities are introduced and these include: Sports Captains (selected by the Junior School sports staff), House Captains (voted for by the pupils in their House) and a Head Boy and Head Girl (voted for by the Junior School staff). The Sports Captains are involved in the organisational elements of their sport (both as part of the Forder Programme and within lessons), lead
warm-up activities for others, keep score at certain events, represent the College at all fixtures for their age group within their particular sport and model the values of teamwork, sportsmanship and playing fairly. The House Captains are expected to take pride in their House, showing both dedication and commitment to the team they are leading. The pupils take a lead role in organising key House events, meeting on a weekly basis with the staff Heads of House. They are positive role models and ambassadors for the College, celebrating the success and achievements of others. The Junior School Head Boy and Head Girl are representatives of the Junior School, working closely with the Head of Junior School. They are responsible for giving feedback about life in the Junior School, as well as assisting with some essential duties as part of the daily routine. They will also be expected to attend key events and functions, including regular opportunities to speak to a large audience.
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I PUPIL VOICE
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
23
24
SUSTAINABILITY I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
SUSTAINABILITY Pupils in the Junior School explore the benefits and importance of sustainability through the taught curriculum, co-curricular programme and general day-to-day action taken within the College. They are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and understand the significance of them both in regard to the school community, but also the wider world.
Our sustainability education includes: •
Taking part in the Travel for London Sustainable Travel: Active, Responsible, Safe initiative
•
Running Cycle Confident Levels 1 and 2 training
•
Holding ‘Walk to School Week’
•
Inviting our Head Boy and Head Girl to the Lewisham Council Air Quality presentations
•
Running Forder Programme activities with an environmental focus, such as ‘Recycling Rocks’ and ‘Eco Club’
•
Learning about environmental topics as part of the International Primary Curriculum
•
Taking part in environmental competitions e.g. creating an air quality banner and writing poems about food wastage
•
Engaging in topical discussions as part of the ‘Skills for Life’ curriculum
•
School Council representatives monitoring air quality and logging results on a daily basis across different areas of the College site
•
Pre-Prep Scooter Training
•
Holding a ‘Car Free Day’ and ‘Car Sharing Day’
•
Learning about road safety
•
London Underground route planning
•
Whole-school step count
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
Sustainability is integral to every aspect of our lives and parents are heavily involved in reiterating the message that we must all be aware of our environment and that strategies should be implemented to look after the planet as much as possible for our own wellbeing and future. We were delighted to be awarded a gold accreditation for Air Quality by the Lewisham STARS programme. Junior School staff and pupils across the College are active members of the Green Society, who are instrumental in delivering current information regarding environmental issues to pupils in assemblies and also work towards initiatives to ensure our environmental contribution is the best that it can be.
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I SUSTAINABILITY
‘Pupils are able to engage with the great issues of our time, such as climate change and inequality, in an intelligent way’. Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2019
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
25
26
PASTORAL I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
PASTORAL At St Dunstan’s College, the pupils are at the heart of what we do and we understand that it is only when pupils are happy, settled and feel safe in school that they are able to thrive and achieve their true potential.
Pastoral care is the responsibility of all members of staff, who take time to develop trusting, positive relationships with pupils, understanding that pupils are individuals with their own qualities, skills and characteristics. We pride ourselves on the strength of our community and adopt an ‘open door’ policy with all parents and pupils. Every form has a Form Teacher, who will teach the majority of lessons to their class, plan Form Time sessions every morning and afternoon, as well as at the end of the school day. The College motto – Albam Exorna – translates to ‘Adorn the White’. This
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
phrase is connected to the white shield that serves as three quarters of the school’s crest. The white is the blank canvas onto which will be adorned the as-yet-unwritten story of each St Dunstan’s pupil: each individual journey through school and life beyond. This is reflective of our appreciation that each pupil has their own unique qualities and attributes.
We strive for a school of individuals who have the Courage to be who they are, the Creativity to develop new ideas and shape their own futures, the Confidence to try, succeed and respond positively to failures, the Compassion to understand and appreciate others and the wider world, and the Curiosity to always to want to discover more.
We believe that the principles underpinning the narrative of our motto are reflected in the values we foster in our young people and embed in our school community and culture today.
Before School Care starts at 0745 and After School Care runs until 1800. Pupils attending wrap-around care will be supervised by a qualified member of our teaching support staff.
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I INCLUSION & ENRICHMENT
27
INCLUSION & ENRICHMENT
Inclusion & Enrichment encompasses those pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL) or Gifted, More Able & Talented (GMAT).
The Inclusion and Enrichment team works across the Junior School, providing support to identified pupils who may need additional intervention. We aim to work closely with families to ensure that plans put in place support the child with appropriate strategies and measurable targets. Pupils may receive additional support from a Teaching Assistant or members of the Inclusion and Enrichment team in class, or be invited to intervention groups to help them meet their targets. Our high-achieving pupils are consistently challenged both inside and outside the classroom and benefit from high-quality differentiated teaching, enrichment groups and the opportunity to compete against their peers in competitions at a local and national level.
‘When you join St Dunstan’s, you feel like everyone is a friend to you and they help you when you are in need. We celebrate each other’s differences and value everyone in the school community’ Year 6 Pupil
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
28
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
‘You can go on a residential trip with your friends and you get to learn in a different way, away from your classroom and your school. You learn what your life will be like if you don’t have parents organising your things all the time!’
Year 5 Pupil
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
From Year 2 to Year 6, pupils are offered a range of opportunities to experience the benefits of learning in an out-of-school context with high‑quality, overnight residential trips. We believe that these experiences enrich the taught curriculum, foster deeper and often new relationships with peers, develop resilience, teamwork skills and increase independence, as well as a sense of belonging. Pupils form new friendships, confidence and self-awareness through the variety of experiences they encounter. The memories made on these trips are invaluable and pupils speak about their trips and the adventures they have experienced with fondness and delight. In Year 2, pupils camp on the school grounds overnight and take part in team-building activities, enjoy a
summer barbeque together and spend time around a campfire. In Year 3, pupils spend two nights and three days on their residential trip, following a ‘From Field to Plate’ theme. They learn all about the importance of farming, take part in the daily farming routines and the processes needed in order for us to be able to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Activities also include pupils preparing their own food to further embed their understanding of the final stage of the farming process. Year 4 journey to Sheringham, Norfolk to spend three nights away
at the Hilltop Activity Centre. There, the pupils experience a variety of activities, the picturesque location and the opportunity to develop their teamwork and collaboration. Pupils also journey to the British coastline to enjoy the beach, examine rock pools and explore the effects of erosion. The activities during the day include assault courses, problem solving activities and even the high swing. In the evenings, pupils enjoy games in the woods, an evening walk and fun swims. Year 5 pupils embark on four nights away, completing team-building activities at Manor Adventure, Shropshire. From canoeing, to raft building, abseiling to high ropes, all pupils confront a challenge and face their fears in a fun, safe environment on their action-packed adventure week away. When pupils are in Year 6, they travel further afield for five nights to Maison Claire Fontaine, in Burgundy, France. This visit is part of the Modern Foreign Languages curriculum and the focus of the trip is a completely immersive French-speaking experience. All lessons and activities are led by teachers who are bilingual native French language speakers and the increased confidence pupils have when speaking French upon their return is quite remarkable.
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
29
30
FESTIVALS & CELEBRATIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
FESTIVALS & CELEBRATIONS In the Junior School, pupils are provided with many opportunities to join together as a community to celebrate a key date, event or particular festival. Often these events involve parents joining us and we embrace any opportunity to bring our whole-College community together, including events taking place both in and outside of school. In addition to this, we have a main ‘Theme of the Week’ as a whole-school, where we place an emphasis on a particular topic during a time of celebration, for example the theme of Light during Diwali, World Mental Health Week and Anti-Bullying Week. We focus on that topic in assembly time, during Form Time and at various additional points in the week.
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
Examples of key Festivals and Celebrations in the Junior School:
• Harvest Festival • Remembrance Service • Carol Service • Anti-Bullying Week • World Mental Health Day • E-Safety Day • World Book Day • Commemoration Day • Science Week
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I FESTIVALS & CELEBRATIONS
‘I think it is good that we have different celebrations because I find it fun and you get to practise singing songs. You are learning a lot when you find out more about different celebrations’ Year 4 Pupil
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
31
32
ADMISSIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
ADMISSIONS Nursery (3+) and Reception (4+) Entry We accept registrations for our Nursery from birth, and early registration is advised. Children are considered for entry to the Nursery provided they have reached the age of 3 by the start of the Michaelmas Term. The deadline for online registration on our website for both Reception and Nursery entry is mid-October of the year before entry. Our 3+ assessments take place on Tuesday mornings and our 4+ assessments take place on Wednesday mornings, both in November and early December. Our 3+ assessments are relatively informal, last 1 hour and take place in small groups. Our 4+ assessment is designed to help the children show us what they can do and all tasks are undertaken in a thoughtful, caring and friendly manner. Please refer to our separate Junior School Admissions Booklet for more detailed information and exact dates.
All pupils who apply are invited to attend an assessment day at the College in early January. The day consists of assessment of their academic ability as well as their learning behaviours during lessons. Please refer to our separate Junior School Admissions Booklet for more detailed information and exact dates.
Other Points of Entry Occasional places do become available from time to time in all year groups. Assessments are arranged as appropriate and will involve your child spending part or all of a school day with us. They will experience a mixture of time in class and formal academic assessments. We will also contact your child’s current school to ask for a reference or recent school report. If you have any further questions concerning your child joining the Junior School, please contact our Admissions Team.
Year 3 Entry (7+) The deadline for online registration on our website is early December of the year before entry.
Admissions Team Key Contact Information Director of Admissions Mrs Isabelle Blake-James Head of Admissions Ms Anika Kothari Admissions Assistant Ms Georgina Morrison Junior School Admissions Coordinator and PA to the Head of Junior School Miss Deborah Jackson jsadmissions@stdunstans.org.uk 020 8516 7309
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I ADMISSIONS
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
33
34
ADMISSIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S
DISCOVER ST DUNSTAN’S VISITING THE COLLEGE The best way for you to be able to witness the energy of the pupils and staff, and truly understand how exciting school life is here at St Dunstan’s College, would be for you to visit us in person. We strongly encourage you to come and see our school in action.
Junior School Discovery Mornings We will be hosting a series of onsite small group Discovery Mornings between September and December 2020. The Head of Junior School, Miss Laura Whitwood, will welcome all prospective parents in person for bespoke Discovery Mornings, specific to our different entry points. This will be followed by a tour of the College in small groups, with information shared by our Junior School pupils. Parents will also have the opportunity to ask any questions in a Q&A session with key staff, who will be delighted to tell you all about life in the Junior School. More details are available on our separate Junior School Admissions Booklet as well as our website at: www.stdunstans.org.uk/admissions/visiting-the-college All Discovery Mornings require pre-booking online, from our website. Please sign up to a Discovery Morning for your specific area of interest.
‘The visit was very informative, and it was lovely to be given a tour by one of the junior pupils’ Year 3 family
w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
S T D U N S TA N ’ S J U N I O R S C H O O L P R O S P EC T U S I ADMISSIONS
j s a d m i s s i o n s @ s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k
35
Ju n i o r S c h o o l O f f i c e 0 2 0 8 5 1 6 7 2 2 5 C o l l e g e O f f i c e 0 2 0 8 5 1 6 7 2 0 0 St D u n s t a n’s C o l l e g e , St a n s t e a d Ro a d , Lo n d o n , S E 6 4 T Y Charity number: 312747 w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o r g . u k w w w. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k An ambitious, forward-thinking community that inspires and supports individuals to thrive