The 1998 Education Act brought in a compulsory National Curriculum. In primary schools, the subjects that all pupils must study are art and design, design and technology, English, geography, history, information and communication technology, mathematics, music, physical education and science. Religious education must also be provided.
At Gorran we try to deliver the requirements of the National Curriculum in an exciting and innovative way. Each term topics are planned that integrate the National Curriculum subjects, the five outcomes of the government’s Every Child Matters initiative ( Be healthy, Stay Safe, Enjoy & achieve, Make a positive contribution, and Achieve economic well-being), and the eight sustainable schools doorways (Food & Drink, Energy & Water, Travel & Traffic, Purchasing and Waste, Buildings and Grounds, Inclusion & Participation, Local Well-being and Global Dimension)
We feel that offering an integrated curriculum in this ways teaches the links between subject areas and makes learning more effective.
Religious Education
Religious Education taught in the school reflects the fact that Christianity is the main religious tradition of Britain but takes into account the teaching practices of other religions represented in our country. Our collective worship is a daily act of a broadly Christian character which is non-denominational. All pupils take part in Religious Education and Collective Worship, however parents have the right to withdraw their children if they so wish by putting this in writing to the head teacher.
Special Educational Needs
It is our policy to support every child in our school, from those experiencing learning difficulties to those who need a more challenging curriculum. We aim to identify special learning needs as early as possible and all staff contribute to this process. The school follows the agreed Code of Practice for SEN. Children are given Individual Education Plans from the early stages and regular meetings are held to review progress and learning needs. We work closely with various external agencies, which provide advice, resources and expertise. Parents of children with special needs are kept fully informed of progress at all stages. Our full S.E.N. policy is available for inspection in school.
We also keep a record of higher achieving pupils, and track their progress. Some will be identified as being gifted or talented. We will try to provide activities that will encourage these children’s abilities.
The school is accessible to wheelchair users, with ramps to at least one doorway on both buildings. The school uses a range of teaching techniques and resources to allow access to the curriculum. In 2010 we were awarded the Inclusive, Dyslexia Friendly Schools Mark.