Lynams Curriculum

At Lynams the foundations are laid for the Dragon tradition of combining hard work with fun. Academic skills are developed through carefully planned Schemes of Work, which follow and extend the National Curriculum.

Teaching and learning, at any stage of education, needs to be stimulating. One of the Dragon's hallmarks is its recognition of what childhood is about. The curriculum is based upon calm focus and relaxed rigour, underpinned by a strong pastoral ethos.

The curriculum is planned with traditional subjects in mind as a framework around which children can enjoy learning. As they progress from year to year subjects become more obviously discrete and from the beginning we are aiming to develop the particular skills and knowledge of each discipline.

Most subjects are taught by class teachers. However, there are specialist Music, French, ICT, and Art teachers. Computing skills are taught throughout the school, with computers freely available to all children, both in class and in a modern ICT suite.

Homework

Children work hard at school and often have a busy programme of activities outside school hours. This may include music, which needs regular practice, or sporting activities and clubs, which take up time after school. They also need time for relaxation with family and friends and time to pursue other hobbies.

Nonetheless, there are some aspects of schoolwork, which can be reinforced very usefully at home, e.g. learning to spell, practising 'tables' and handwriting skills, practical maths and science assignments, sharing a book or learning a poem. When it is useful for children to bring home such activities they will do so and details will be noted in their home/school diaries.

In Year 3 each form has a regular pattern of homework. Assignments are given with deadlines so that each family can work out when it is easiest to do them in relation to the children's other out-of-school commitments. Homework needs to be kept relaxed and fun but it is important to instill a routine where homework is part of a normal evening as it will pay great dividends later on.