At St Columba’s School we offer traditional values combined with a modern curriculum which equips children with the skills necessary for living and learning in the 21st Century. We believe that school should provide an environment where each child is valued and where standards of effort and participation are expected.
There are 2 parallel classes in each year group from J1-J6 and maximum class sizes are 24. Classes are taught using whole class, group and individual methods. A sound grounding is provided in Maths, English and Environmental Studies with French, Music and Physical Education being taught by specialists. Children are encouraged to be active participants in their learning by developing sound thinking skills.
Computers are widely used in school and are seen as an integral tool for learning. Each class has access to laptops to allow for further flexibility. A wide variety of extra curricular activities are offered, including sports, music, chess and computer clubs.
Our aim is to develop children who are confident and inquisitive, able to take initiatives and to see beyond the obvious.
Nursery
Aims: To develop social skills, such as sharing-taking items to allow the children to explore their enviroment through play.
The nursery class is available for children who will reach 3 years of age by February. The class meets every day from 1.30 - 3.30pm. Up to 16 children can be accomodated under the care of nursery teacher and nursery nurse. Children from this class are guaranteed a place in Prep for the following year.
The children are encouraged to explore new concepts through role play and practical activities such as sand and water play and art & craft activities.
After School Care
After school care is provided by Home Time, based at Junior School. The facility is for school children up to the age of 16 years and is registered to operate Monday to Friday from 3-6pm however, with current demand, is open Monday to Wednesday from 3.30-6pm. The cost is £10 per child per day on a regular basis and £12 per child per day on an ad-hoc basis.
Regulated by the Care Commission and Investors in People recognised, staff at Home Time are disclosed and hold childcare qualifications. A range of activities and resources are in place and a visit to the project is welcomed before a child starts.
To arrange a visit please contact Susan Paton between 3-6pm on 07951 573049 or for any further information contact Denise Ferrier: 07974 384964 or FerriDeni@aol.com.
Parents Evenings
Parents evenings are an opportunity for parents and teachers to discuss progress and attainment. Dates for all parents evenings are published in the School calendar. Parents evenings begin at 6.00pm and the last appointment should be at 9.30pm. Parents will be given a letter asking them to indicate their preferred time and date. Children are not expected to attend these parents evenings. If a discussion would appear to require further time and another appointment will be made for a future time.
Information evenings are held for all stages at the beginning of the school year.
Coffee Afternoons
The Head and Deputy Head of Junior School hold a Coffee Afternoon on the last Friday of the month from 3.00-3.30pm in the Livingstone Hall. These sessions are ideal for an informal chat and provide an opportunity for Mrs Cook and Mrs Hecht to get to know parents better.