The areas of learning in the Northern Ireland Curriculum are:

Language & Literacy

This area focuses on Talking and Listening, Reading and Writing, It develops the skills that enable children to interact effectively in the world around them. Our recently extended school library gives children the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction books that will help foster positive reading habits.

Mathematics & Numeracy

Teachers enable children to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in: Sorting, Patterns and Relationships, Number, Measures, Shape and Space, and Handling Data and Processes in Mathematics. Children have the opportunity to explore a range of computer packages and internet sites to enhance their understanding of mathematics.

The Arts

The contribution of Art, Drama and Music to the development of every child is highly valued in our school. Children experience a wide range of enjoyable and challenging activities. Children also have the opportunity to participate locally in shows, competitions and festivals.

The World Around Us

This Area of Learning has combined to provide a balance of experiences across the areas of History, Geography, Science and Technology. This provides opportunities for children to develop an awareness of themselves, their place in the world and their environment.

Physical Education

The development of movement skills is nurtured, not only because they are important for the child’s long-term health and well-being, but because they support the child’s physical development. Children experience a sense of fun, enjoyment and achievement through a variety of progressively challenging and innovative activities.

Religious Education

The Department of Education’s Core Syllabus for Religious Education is delivered as is statutory for each Key Stage. This syllabus focuses on three learning objectives –

> The Revelation of God

> The Christian Church

> Morality

In addition to this, preparation for the Sacraments is offered, as appropriate, to children of the Roman Catholic faith.

Personal Development & Mutual Understanding

Personal Development and Mutual Understanding focuses on encouraging each child to become personally, emotionally and socially effective. This should encourage children to lead healthy, safe and fulfilled lives and become confident, independent and responsible citizens. The ability to make informed and responsible choices and decisions in the future is promoted.

In today’s curriculum, there is less emphasis on gaining knowledge and a greater emphasis on gaining skills.

Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities have become an intrinsic part of classroom practice across all Areas of Learning. They highlight the processes of learning and not just the products and therefore engage pupils in active rather than passive learning.

In developing personal capabilities children are encouraged to experiment with ideas, take initiative, learn from mistakes, work collaboratively and become more self-directed in their learning. These skills will be encouraged through the areas of learning.