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Academic Approach

The curriculum at Woodlands  School Hutton Manor is tailored to the needs of the pupils and is delivered through Quality First Teaching. Taking the National Curriculum as our starting point, our staff adapt and enhance their programmes of study to ensure that every pupil is motivated, inspired and challenged in all areas. In addition to the core subjects of English and Mathematics our syllabus includes Modern Languages, Science, Music, ICT, Art, Drama, Design and Technology, Outdoor Learning and Bushcraft activities, PE and Swimming. Many of these subjects are delivered by specialist teaching staff. At all times we encourage our pupils to question freely within their learning to help them in their understand of the world around them.

Our small classes allow a very individual approach to be offered to every child so that the learning style and pace is appropriate. We recognise that emotional health and academic development are interlinked; this is supported with a commitment to wellbeing and mental health throughout our school community and is enhanced by regular events and initiatives such as yoga and mindfulness.

At every level, we strive to make our pupils independent learners, well-prepared for the next stage in their development. By Years 5 and 6 the curriculum guides our children towards the successful transition and transfer as required by the scholarship and entry requirements of the leading local independent senior, grammar and maintained schools.

Our provision spreads further than the academic requirements. We want our children to leave us as good citizens who are confident within their surroundings. Our approach therefore is designed to help pupils:

  • view the world through the eyes of a growth mindset and challenge failure
  • enjoy a happy and secure learning environment where they are valued
  • foster curiosity where they question rather than merely accept
  • acquire knowledge and understanding which will equip them for future challenges
  • obtain skills that they can transfer to other subjects or situations

Pupils achieve at high levels in response to highly engaging teaching in small classes which provides different activities to suit individual pupils’ needs

ISI educational quality Inspection Report 2017

Open Door Policy

We work very closely with parents and believe that communication between home and school is of paramount importance. 

Parents are invited to talk with teachers and qualified staff at drop-off (time permitting) and pick-up times whenever they need to.  We also provide work email addresses for all teachers. 

In addition to our termly formal consultations, parents are welcome to make appointments to meet with staff at any time during the term time. Information events are publicised in advance and recorded on the online school calendar.

Parents receive a regular newsletter; we use Parent Mail to text and email parents with any updated or urgent information.

Find out more about specific key areas of our curriculum using the links below: