In all areas of the curriculum, we aim to engage, motivate and stretch each child. We do this by providing stimulating lessons that are purposeful, enjoyable and responsive to each child. Due to the small class sizes, we can adapt the learning to cater for each child to give them the best opportunities. Whenever possible, the children are active in their learning and we aim to give a wide range of real experiences to broaden the children’s thinking such as growing vegetables in the garden, visiting Porlock museum or writing poetry on Exmoor.

Sharing ideas is a core part of the learning process for all ages and the children are involved in questioning, explaining their observations and discussions with their peers and teachers. As they progress through the school, we encourage them to use their imaginations and to ‘have a go’. We believe that being self-reliant and flexible in their thinking will be a lifelong asset. 

In the early stages of their school life, the children explore their own interests as well as be guided in the skills and knowledge that lead to reading, writing, mathematics, science, etc.  As they progress through the school, we introduce a wide range of themes in history, geography, art, etc to give understanding of the world around them.  We provide a rigorous and stimulating English, science and maths curriculum which is often linked to other curriculum areas or real experiences so that the children are really motivated and can make sense of their learning. Due to the small numbers, we can keep a close watch on each child’s progress and can respond quickly if a child needs support. 

We use ICT to bring parts of the curriculum ‘to life’ – webcams to view other parts of the world, films and photos to take them back ‘to the past’, pictures and videos that show the natural world in its glory. The children’s own ICT skills are developed so that they feel confident to use the technology. We are fortunate to have interactive whiteboards in each classroom, an ICT suite and a Video conferencing facility to communicate with other schools and experts.

We are proud to be a ‘Healthy School’ and know that giving children a healthy style of life is part of our responsibility. For example, every day, each child takes part in ‘Take Ten’ – ten minutes of exercise to start the day. School lunches are cooked on site and give a delicious, well balanced, varied meal and the children are also encouraged to drink water and have individual water bottles at hand through the day.

A range of specialist teachers enriches our teaching; sports specialists teach PE and run after school clubs; brass and music lessons are taught to every KS2 child; French is taught and is part of their everyday experience. The children also benefit from regular contact with other children and other teachers through Federation events. We regularly welcome visitors into school to share new ideas, skills and experiences with the children and staff.