Upper Primary (Year 4 - 6)
In Primary at Warwick Academy, we follow the UK National Curriculum in all subjects. We have integrated other supporting curricula that have been written based on UK learning goals and offer great advantages. In mathematics we use a Singapore teaching model that emphasises the use of concrete materials and abstract reasoning. We adopted the International Primary Curriculum in Science and Humanities for the benefits of a cross curricular approach and a focus on research skills and global awareness.
In Upper Primary, Year 4 follows the same classroom teacher model as Lower Primary. Then we move to three classes in Year 5 and Year 6 (from two in Year 1 – Year 4). The children experience the same specialist-taught subjects; however, at this point, the Class Teachers also specialise in subject areas. For example, one teacher specialises in teaching all the English across the year group, one all the mathematics and the third teacher focuses on science and humanities. This same approach is used in Year 6. We believe this supports our pupils towards a smoother transition into the secondary section of the school, where they will have different teachers in different rooms for all their subjects.
Each year group covers five units of study a year. Units are studied for approximately five weeks. Each unit of study aims to integrate the curriculum areas where possible. Every year group has a dedicated Bermuda unit to cover the island's history, geography and culture.
Assessment in Primary is based on criteria from the UK National Curriculum. We use this structure to ensure greater consistency within subjects. The use of these criteria to assess means that achievement can be qualified against a set of specific attainment targets as opposed to "homespun" standards.
Learning enrichment in Primary is provided through the effective use of assistant teachers allocated to all year groups across Primary. Students in Upper Primary will have access to a Learning Support programme and a Learning Extension programme. You can read more about our robust Learning Enrichment Department under the “Learning Enrichment “ tab.
Homework in the Primary section builds gradually. Once children move into Years 4, 5 and 6, the daily reading expectation remains; they continue to practice their times tables and complete spelling tasks. They may also receive an English and Math assignment. Occasionally, children may be expected to complete more complex tasks such as research presentations. When this happens, they will always be given plenty of notice and time to complete the work set.