FRENCH

ART AND CDT (Craft, Design and Technology)

Art Display

LATIN

Children begin to learn Latin in Form 4, following the popular 'Minimus' programme. Amply illustrated and humorous, the course introduces basic vocabulary and grammar, scenes from Roman life and several well-known Latin quotations. The lives of famous Romans are also studied and placed in relevant modern context.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Information and Communication Technology is part of the regular timetable for all classes, and use is made of the school’s computers to practise specific skills with individual children. In addition to the use of laptop computers for every child during an ICT lesson, all classes have access to their own computer. The school uses a modern server-based network of Apple Macintosh equipment, extensively supported with relevant and appropriate educational software.

When appropriate, there is supervised broadband access to the internet at a leading cyber-patrolled specialist educational ISP. This provides links to the National Grid for Learning and thence to other teaching resources. We are proud to be at the leading edge in ICT and all classrooms other than the Den, ie for children aged 4 and older, are fitted with interactive whiteboards. This allows teachers to use the most up to date technology and resources to supplement their lessons.

Mr Ross Gilmour

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Children in Lower 1 and above are taken once a week to our own gymnasium where, under the guidance of our specialist teachers, a part of their lessons involve working for the British Amateur Gymnasts' Association awards.

General ball skills are taught at the all-weather pitches of the Westway Centre nearby. Matches are arranged regularly against other preparatory schools.

Ms Daniela Dueck and Miss Zoe Holborough

MUSIC

Each child participates in 2 class music lessons each week. Lessons focus on pulse, rhythm and pitch. There is a strong emphasis on singing, composing and improvising.

In Form 3 all children are given the opportunity to acquire some basic piano keyboard skills, which includes learning about chord structures, notation, composition and improvisation.

Performance is strongly encouraged with group productions every term. Children may also play individually in assemblies.

We have a thriving choir and an established school orchestra.

Individual tuition in various instruments as well as voice is available from a team of qualified peripatetic staff.

Mrs Miranda Parr

Piano lesson - optional extra

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Dalcroze eurhythmics are taught once a week to the younger children. Ballet is also offered as an option after school.

Music and Movement

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Bassett House has a broadly Christian philosophy but religious education is non-denominational. Every child attends assembly twice a week.