The Enrichment Years
Deepening and broadening the curriculum
In the Enrichment Years, the close link with the Class Teacher and the structure of the Main Lesson followed by subject lessons continues. There is a steady development in the curriculum and the children are challenged to learn and respond more independently. New subjects such as Biology, Zoology, Geography, Geometry and History are gradually introduced. As before, the children create their own unique Main Lesson book for each subject and these books form one of the records of their achievement which the children can be proud of, and the school and parents can use to assess progress.
For ages 9 and 10
At this stage of the child’s development their relationship to the world around them is reflected in the curriculum we offer. A developing self-awareness is responded to with practical lessons. For example Mathematics Main Lessons will include measurement of weight, volume, time and distance, also money. They will learn about the life and work of a farmer through the seasons. They will study housebuilding in the different regions of the world and there will be a practical house building project. Formal grammar appears for the first time as children learn to look at their own language in a more objective way.
The story content for the Literacy Main Lessons is Norse Mythology which abounds with colourful characters and humour. Whilst securing previous mathematical learning, fractions are now introduced. A new Main Lesson provides an introduction to Biology. Individual project work is now introduced into the Main Lesson themes. This enables children to follow their own particular interests and to find ways to present their work and ideas to their peers. Developing out of their earlier Nature Study Main Lessons, there will be a formal beginning of Geography with a Main Lesson focussing on the local area.
For ages 10 to 11
The Main Lessons for this age group includes a study of the ancient civilisations of Mesopotamia, Persia, Ancient India, Egypt and Greece. The rich mythologies of these cultures provide the material for the English Language work in this year. Mathematics now includes the introduction of decimals and geometry, the latter developing naturally out of the Form Drawing work of the earlier years. Other topics include botany and focus on the evolution of plants in their unique environments. Local Geography broadens out to encompass the British Isles. A highlight of this year is attending an ‘Olympiad’ where children of this age from many Steiner Schools both from the UK and often from Europe gather for a Camp and festival of Sports and Gymnastics. The Schools are divided into Greek City States and are trained and compete in discus, javelin, long jump, high jump and running. This is a powerful social experience for all concerned.
In addition to the Main Lessons, Specialist teachers deepen and broaden the curriculum for the children with PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education), Music, French, Handwork, Eurythmy (an art form combining language, music and movement), Painting, Form Drawing, Woodwork, Games, Gardening.
Transition to Secondary School
The learning programme will ensure that pupils are fully prepared and ready for the transition to secondary school.