Year 4

Although still primarily taught by their class teacher, the children have more lessons with specialist Prep School teachers who work with pupils to develop their independence. The four key areas of focus are: collaboration, perseverance, questioning/curiosity and resilience. A weekly interactive problem solving session is added to the Mathematics programme. Homework extends to 20-30 minutes most days.

Children are expected to work together whilst also being asked to carry out daily tasks independently and to take responsibility for their learning. They are asked to rely less upon adults and to speak to the teachers themselves if they have any issues.

Outside the classroom, pupils are expected to try new things and to assess and take risks; making mistakes is accepted as part of children’s learning.

School trips play an important part and each term Year 4 visits local places of interest relevant to the curriculum, adding to their learning and understanding. Trips may include Arbeia Roman Fort and the Centre for Life. In addition, the children have the chance  to take part in a residential outdoor activities trip.

Year 4 pupils have more opportunities to join in the extra-curricular activities, to play in sporting fixtures against other schools and to perform publicly in drama and music, taking a leading role in the Lent Term Year 3/4 play.