Outline

St Mary’s Junior School embraces the framework of the National Curriculum Statement.

In the Intermediate and Senior Phase, called the Senior Primary at St Mary’s, our academic programme focuses on the core skills of Mathematics and language development. Two classes in each grade are split into smaller sets with specialist teachers to allow individual time for students to question and be extended or supported.

After extensive research both locally and abroad, we implemented Singapore Mathematics. This approach teaches fundamental number manipulation skills as well as routine and non-routine problem solving. It is structured and developmental with a successful learning spiral.

In all languages – English, isiZulu, Sesotho and Afrikaans, a focus on communication and successful comprehension of various texts and genres, good language development and visual literacy extend the girls’ skills while creative writing and poetry provides them with opportunities for intra-personal communication and time for self-reflection. These are valuable lessons to face a busy, challenging future.

We are members of the International Primary Curriculum, affiliated to Fieldwork Education, founded in the United Kingdom. This curriculum integrates learning across the sciences and technology and develops international mindedness from an early age.

In Natural Sciences the scientific approach to investigation and problem solving is taught, with a strong focus on environment and the sustainability of our practices and our world. We attempt to construct the right knowledge from very early learning experiences.

In Social Sciences the girls look at historical events and research how they have changed lives and countries – politically and economically. Current affairs form a great part of this learning and the teachers and girls use our fully-resourced Media Centre and laptop banks for regular research.

The use of technology, both information and design, and economic management science are integrated into many aspects of the curriculum and girls will have entrepreneurial skills, design ability and be computer literate before they leave Junior School. Classrooms are fitted with interactive electronic Promethean boards for digital, on-line learning and creative lesson development.

Visual and performing arts play a major role in the extension of creative abilities. Performance opportunities and Art exhibitions are a regular part of the school week.

The values of our school are non-negotiable and this is what you support when you are part of our wonderful community. Academic excellence, top sporting achievements and participation for all, a rich cultural program and a deep spirituality – teaching care, kindness, love and giving thanks for our lives, are what underpin all we offer. Your commitment to this ethos will ensure your daughter loves her School and is successful.