"Relationships between pupils and teachers are warm and friendly, which enhances pupils' motivation and leads to very positive attitudes to learning." Ofsted, 2007.

Curriculum

Our aim for formal education is to nurture in our pupils a love of learning and a healthy work ethic. This aim profits from small class sizes which allow the teacher to attend to the particular needs of each pupil and for pupils to be fully engaged in the lesson. Pupils are frequently encouraged to offer their opinion and discuss their work, promoting self-esteem.

Our curriculum is based on the National Curriculum, key stages 1 and 2†. We use a variety of modern commercial schemes to develop skills systematically, appropriate to age. Through a combination of these schemes and a traditional teaching approach based on practised examples, pupils can expect to exceed key stage targets, particularly in English and maths.

We are proud of the variety offered within our curriculum. For example, although not required, we teach French to Preps 1 to 4 and Prep 4 receive lessons in society. This variety not only stimulates interest in the wider world but also aids concentration in traditional subject lessons and, we think, produces well-balanced and adaptable young people.


"Pupils are thoroughly prepared for the next phase of their education when they leave the school." Ofsted, 2007.

"[The school] prepares its pupils so that they transfer to their secondary schools as happy, well-adjusted young people who are a credit to themselves, their parents and their school." BRES, 2007.

Achievement

To encourage your child to perform at his or her best, we assess their work twice a year. Home work is set every night.

Typically achievement is high. Our programme of timed work ensures that pupils are well prepared for a competitive academic life. In particular, we test in English, maths and verbal reasoning. Results are outstanding: Many pupils go on to grammar schools, such as King Edward VI Grammar School and the Chelmsford County High School for Girls. Others take places at Brentwood School, the Ursuline, New Hall or St. John Payne School.

We believe that an education at St Philip's provides a child with the skills to succeed in life, whatever his or her destination.


†The National Curriculum is a government prescribed programme of study for primary and secondary schools. Key stages 1 and 2 are programmes designed for age groups, 5-7 yrs and 7-11 yrs, respectively. Each specifies skills targets that pupils should aim to achieve before the next stage. For more information see the National Curriculum online.