E-Prospectus
Educational Policy: Extra Subjects
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGYInformation and communication technology is part of the regular timetable for all classes, and use is made of the school's wireless-enabled computers to practise specific skills with individual children. In addition, all classes have access to their own computer and the school also has a bank of laptop computers which can be used anywhere in the school building. The school uses a modern server-based network of Apple Macintosh equipment, extensively supported with relevant educational software. ICT at Orchard House School begins in the Den, where children are introduced to computers, learn
to manipulate the cursor and use games which enhance their knowledge of the Early Years' curriculum.
In each school year, children are introduced to an ever more challenging curriculum, where great
importance is attached to learning important life skills such as being able to When appropriate, there is supervised broadband access to the internet through a leading cyber-patrolled specialist educational ISP. We are proud to be at the leading edge in ICT and all classrooms are fitted with interactive whiteboards. This allows teachers to use the most up-to-date technology and resources to supplement their lessons. More information on ICT at Orchard House School can be found here. |
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FRENCHAll children are taught French. Through songs, games and pictures, children learn to listen to instructions in French and to express themselves in the language. Older children use text books. |
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SCIENCEThe school ascribes great importance to the teaching of science. The school has a well-equipped dedicated science laboratory. Science is taught as a specialist subject within Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6) but all children from Lower 1 (Reception) onwards are introduced to general scientific principles. The subject is often taught in close co-ordination with ICT (see above) |
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PHYSICAL EDUCATIONChildren in the Den and Lower 1 use the Vihara, a local hall, for their indoor PE. Children in Form 1 and above are taken once a week by coach to a local gymnasium where, under the guidance of our specialist teachers, some of their lesson involves working for British Amateur Gymnasts' Association awards. For the youngest children ball skills are taught in the play ground; for Form 1 and above children are taken to Rocks Lane Complex at Chiswick Back Common, with matches being arranged from time to time against other preparatory schools. Children in Form 1 and above are taken by coach to Acton Pool for a weekly swimming lesson. A swimming display, held in the summer term, gives parents an opportunity to see their child's growing confidence in the water. |
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MUSICThere is a full time Director of Music and this subject plays an important part in the school curriculum. Every child has two music lessons each week. These lessons include singing and the playing of percussion instruments. In Form 2 every child learns the recorder. Children may as an option learn the piano, violin, clarinet, 'cello, flute, oboe or brass instruments and/or take additional recorder lessons. Every child takes part in a musical performance at Christmas and several concerts are held during the year. |
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MUSIC, MOVEMENT and DRAMADalcroze eurhythmics are taught in a weekly session to the younger children. Drama is taught throughout the school. Ballet is also offered as an option after school. |
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RELIGIOUS EDUCATIONOrchard House has a broadly Christian philosophy but religious education is non-denominational. The children are introduced to the major world faiths from Form 1 and visit a variety of places of worship. An assembly is held each term in the local parish church of St. Michael and All Angels and weekly assemblies are held in the London Buddhist Vihara nearby. Every child attends assembly. |
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