ENGLISH
We encourage talking and listening in a wide range of situations. Reading is given high priority in our
community. We believe the home has an important role and we encourage this partnership. We use
Storyworlds, a structured programme and also a wide range of books and materials, which is organised to
meet the needs of the children. Writing is done in a variety of formats, and children use the computer for
publishing their writing, if appropriate. We follow the Primary National Strategy for Literacy.

MATHEMATICS
A broad-based practical approach towards mathematics develops the children’s concepts within the
framework of the National Curriculum. We follow the Primary National Strategy for Numeracy.

SCIENCE
Science is a core subject in the National Curriculum. The understanding of physical and material phenomena
based on observation, investigation, experiment and deduction are taught in a practical way using a variety
of resources. We aim to develop an interest in and enthusiasm for science whilst providing essential skills
and knowledge. Our extensive grounds are a rich resource for the observation of plant life.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY
These are taught through the regular programmes of study, according to the National Curriculum. Local trips
and visitors to the school are important resources.

MUSIC
Music plays an essential part in the life of Livingstone Lower School, ranging from the popular whole school
singing assemblies to individual and group playing of a variety of instruments. All of the children are
encouraged to participate both as listeners and performers in their classes, assemblies and concerts. Great
efforts are made by staff to make these experiences as enjoyable as possible. Livingstone children have
performed at several local events and community groups in recent years.

PERSONAL & SOCIAL EDUCATION
We follow the SEAL programme throughout the school. Circle time is an important feature in every class
where children can discuss topics. We listen to children and take them seriously. We encourage them to
take responsibility for their own progress. We include children’s active participation in all school activities.
We believe sex education will be taught informally and will also have parents’ support. We expect and
achieve high standards of behaviour based on mutual respect.

ART & CRAFT
The children’s skills are developed by the use of a wide variety of media. Techniques are taught whilst the
children are also encouraged to use their creativity.

P.E. & Games
Our Physical Education programme is wide-ranging and includes gymnastics, games skills and dance. We
also have visits from the Life Education Bus. Children are encouraged to join in vigorous activities such as
multi-sports, basketball, marathon club and gymnastics. The school has been awarded the Active Mark
2007/2008 because we have 90% or more pupils doing at least 2 hours high quality PE and school sport
every week. In addition to this we have swimming lessons. The children participate in local inter-school
competitions.

TECHNOLOGY
Planning and design are seen as important elements in supporting many areas of the curriculum. The use of
a variety of media, tools and resources helps develop a range of important skills. Models are made by the
children for use in practical activities and for display.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
At Livingstone we encourage each child to become familiar with all the technological aids we have available
to us. There are computers in each teaching area with a variety of software to complement all aspects of the
curriculum. We are connected to the Internet which is often used with the interactive white boards to support
and enhance learning. Television and video provide children with visual experiences, which they might not
otherwise have had. Calculators are available on a large scale for maths and science work.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
As required by law Religious Education is provided in all schools. However, parents may withdraw their
children from such education by making a request in writing to the Headteacher. If you wish to make such a
request, please discuss this matter with the Head Teacher informally first. We aim to develop the
spirituality of our children through our caring ethos.

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
We consider all our children to be “special” with individual needs and abilities. However, we have an
established reputation for catering for children with special educational needs and incorporate strategies to
assist them in the classroom. Statemented children may receive additional help from non-teaching
assistants. Some children also receive additional support from our Learning Support staff. The School has
regard to the Code of Practice when meeting the specific needs of children.

ABLE AND TALENTED
Where children have particular abilities or talents, these are recognised and incorporated into our provision
wherever possible. Where it is not possible to include provision ourselves we can direct parents to out of
school opportunities