Children
Our children join us from a variety of nurseries and pre-schools, while some begin their education with us having not attended a formal setting beforehand. We work closely with parents and carers to ensure every child feels happy, secure and ready to learn from their first day. By getting to know each child as an individual, we provide the support and challenge they need to settle quickly, make excellent progress and flourish throughout their time at Itchen Abbas.
Our school is divided into four classes: Otters, Squirrels, Foxes and Hedgehogs.
Squirrels – For year R. The children start Year R at the beginning of the academic year in which they are 5 years old. They follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, which is based on learning through play and exploration. Their learning is tailored to ensure that the interests of the children form the basis of our planning.
Hedgehogs – for years 1 and 2. In Year 1 and 2 the children follow the National Curriculum and we ensure the children benefit from a continued more hands on, practical approach to learning through 'Explore and Learn'.
Otters – for years 3 and 4 and is our lower Key Stage 2 class. Children in this class begin to take responsibilities across the school to help them develop their maturity and independence.
Foxes – for years 5 and 6 and is our upper Key Stage 2 class. We prepare the children for their transition to their choice of secondary school through our close links with our local secondary schools.
Our children move on to a variety of secondary schools, including local state and independent schools, and leave us as confident, well-rounded young people ready for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Supporting a successful transition is something we take seriously, and I make a point of keeping in touch with many former children as they progress through their secondary education. One of the greatest pleasures of being Headteacher is welcoming former children back through our doors and hearing about their achievements, experiences and ambitions for the future.