Curriculum

Science

Skills in observation, prediction, investigation and research form the basis of our Science programme of study. Through the range of topics we cover, children are encouraged to use logic, pose questions, form theories and draw conclusions from their findings.

Information Communication Technology

As well as having a computer suite and computers in every classroom, there are interactive whiteboards throughout the school. Our network of PCs run a wide variety of programs, include word-processing, graphics, presentations and data handling. Working with computers gives children the opportunity to learn skills which can further enhance their ICT capability and learning across the curriculum.

Music

Our musical tradition is a particular strength of the school and one which we highly value. The Music curriculum offers a balanced programme of activities with an emphasis upon listening and performance. Children learn about pitch and rhythm and will learn to read music in Year 2 when they are taught to play the recorder. We have a number of visiting peripatetic music teachers and musicians teaching a range of orchestral instruments. Many children learn a musical instrument and work towards graded examinations. The choir and orchestra are well established ensembles that give a number of performances during the year.

Art

Bootham Junior School encourages artistic expression by using different projects to enable the children to develop their individual, creative abilities. We teach different artistic techniques and styles and help children to appreciate and understand the work of famous artists in different periods of history. A wide range of materials are available for their work, to create both 2D pictures and 3D models, collages and friezes. We always display our children’s work of which they are quite rightly, very proud.

Physical Education

A broad and balanced programme of activities incorporating elements of games, gymnastics, dance, swimming, athletics, and outdoor and adventurous activities are provided throughout the Infant and Junior years. Our school provides numerous sporting experiences for children both within the curriculum and as extra curricular activities. Children can participate in a variety of sporting fixtures throughout the year. Our many sporting extra curricular activities include: netball, football, judo, short tennis, basketball, ballet, running and swimming. Our aim is to develop the full potential of each individual and to encourage their knowledge, skills and understanding of personal fitness and in sport out of school. Children in yrs 2 – 6 have weekly swimming lessons throughout the academic year.

Latin, French and German

Children undertake a programme of Latin in Years 5 and 6, German in Year 6 and French from nursery onwards. We provide a range of activities which develop their language and communication skills.

Sex Education

The school presents a programme of sex education teaching, appropriate to the age of the children. The approach we use is as follows:-  

Years 3, 4 & 5: Children’s questions relating to reproduction and sexual development will be answered sensitively according to the context in which the questions arise.

Year 6: There will be more direct teaching by Bootham School nursing staff to discuss reproduction and the sexual changes that lead to maturity in males and females. Children will be reassured about the changes that occur at puberty. At all times, nurses and teachers will strive to share only that amount of information which is appropriate to the majority of the children

Homework

We encourage children to undertake additional work and activities which will support their school work. More regular, formally set homework, begins when children reach the end of the Infant stage (Year 2).

Finally…

We hope this information is useful to you. Please do not hesitate to call or visit us if you have further questions. We will always be very happy to help you.