The Primary Education

Primary education is given in an institution for children aged normally 5 to 11 since the rest of the education system is built upon it, the primary level is the key to the success or failure of the whole system. This being the case, the general objectives of primary education are: -

• The inculcation of permanent literacy and innumeracy, and the ability to communicate effectively.
• The laying of a sound basis for scientific and reflective thinking,
• Citizenship education as a basis for effective participation in and contribution to the life of the society.
• Character and moral training and the development of sound attitudes.
• Developing in the child the ability to adapt to his changing environment;
• Giving the child opportunities for developing manipulative skills that will enable him to function effectively in the society within the limits of his capacity.
• Providing basis tools for further educational advancement, including preparation for trades and crafts of the locality. These objectives form the basis of primary education in both private and public schools.

 

Entry Requirements

Primary Schools
In the past most primary schools catered for pupils from 6-11/13, but today many accept pupils from the age of three upwards. Entry is usually dependent upon an interview with the Head and a satisfactory report from the previous school. Some schools also set verbal or written entrance tests in English and Mathematics, although pupils entering the primary department of a pre-school which they attend may be exempted from such tests.

Day schools are often highly oversubscribed particularly in schools that have existed for over 10 years, so it is advisable to register well in advance of the proposed entry date and to bear in mind that some schools are highly selective. Entry is normally in September, but is possible at other times depending on circumstances. Schools that prepare children primarily for the Common Entrance Examination may test older entrants more rigorously to ensure that they have capacity to pass at 11, 12 or 13. it is unwise to consider entry into the final year of a school’s age range, as a one-year stay can be academically difficult and socially disruptive. Places are offered at the discretion of the Head, whose decision if final.

Primary schools, which take pupils to 11, will prepare them for entry to senior schools through Common Entrance or the schools own entrance exam. The Head of your child’s school will want to know which senior school you have chosen when he or she reaches the last two years of primary school.

 

Curriculum and Teaching

Primary/Preparatory Schools

Most preparatory schools are preparing pupils for Common Entrance in anticipation of entry to senior boarding or day schools. The destination of schools leavers and the main academic thrust of the school may well be influenced by available provision at senior level.

Within the upper age range pupils are often based as a form with a form teacher but move to their various groups for all subjects teaching. Class sizes may be anything from 12 to 25 but normally average between 15 and 20.

The curriculum broadens as pupils progress through the school. subjects will include English, Maths, Science, History, Geography, religious Studies, Arts, Music, Games and Physical education. At some point a modern language, usually French will be introduced. Many schools also now offer Information Technology and DT (Design and Technology), which encourages the development of artistic, design and construction skills. Other elements of the curriculum might include current affairs and topical studies, group activities and projects as well as field trips and expeditions to supplement studies and all subjects. Computers are now an integral part of the curriculum and many schools have facilities, which are used across the whole subject spectrum.

Most pupils are set homework, 10-15 minutes for every young pupils increasing gradually to about an hour or more for older pupils and those preparing for Common Entrance. Many schools also offer excellent library facilities, which pupils are encouraged to use both for references purpose and to instill an enjoyment of reading and a spirit of enquiry. Reading is encouraged both for studies and for leisure.

The Arts are considered an important part of the curriculum. Many pupils take individuals music lessons in addition to class music studies and some schools have a variety of orchestral, choral and drama groups to give performances at school concerts and concerts outside school. Few schools also organize visits to art galleries, the theatre and concerts.

Games and PE are also important element. All schools offer a range of team games as part of the timetabled curriculum, together with other sporting and activity options to allow for all interest and abilities. Inter-house sports are regular options to allow for all interest and abilities.

Exams Testing and Assessment

Private schools use their own methods of assessment to monitor a pupil’s progress.

Primary/Preparatory Schools

Teachers keep a contact eye on their pupils. On a more formal basis pupils may be tested or assessed on a regular basis during the term to monitor levels of achievements and efforts made. Some schools operate a points system, with marks for good work contributed to a pupil’s record, which will include assessment of behaviour and efforts made in sports and other activities as well as academic performances. Formal exams are normally set twice a year or at the end of each term. Grades and position in the class are entered in the termly report for parents.