The Nippers (8 - 12 years)
The Scottish 5-14 curriculum is followed and children are taught by experienced primary school teachers. Years 6 and 7 (10 and 11 years) undergo a transition period when they are taught by more subject specialist teachers as well as having a class teacher. All of our children are taught by specialist teachers from Year 1 in French, Music, PE, ICT, Art and Drama. We also have a number of visiting artists, musicians, actors and professional sports coaches who enhance our overall teaching.
Modern teaching methods and resources are integrated with more traditional educational values. Children are taught in mixed ability groups. Spelling, reading, grammar, handwriting, numeracy and mental arithmetic are at the core of everything we do.
The Nippers is increasingly adopting the 'Curriculum for Excellence' which we fully support. This aims to provide a clear and progressive curriculum in Scotland which enables young people to become 'successful learners, responsible citizens, confident individuals and effective contributors'.
Prep
A supervised prep (homework) session for children in Year 4 (8 years) to Year 7 (11 years) is run each evening for those pupils who wish to remain at School. This means that homework can be completed at School, and does not have to be taken home.
Information and Communication Technology
At the Junior School we try to integrate the latest in technology into our teaching. Interactive whiteboards and notebook computers are used in the classrooms and specialist ICT lessons are taught based on the Scottish 5 - 14 curriculum.
Assessment
A variety of assessment methods are used: continuous assessment; National Testing; practical assessment and end of unit testing.
Reporting
Parents receive progress reports four times a year at October half term, in December and in March. A more detailed end of year report is issued at the end of May each year. Individual parental consultations occur twice a year.
Personal and Social Education (PSE)
It is very important to us that all of our children feel emotionally secure within the School. With all of our deeds and actions we are looking to promote and develop positive feelings which will allow for this. At a more formal level each class is taught a PSE lesson by their class teacher in which they study and discuss a whole range of subjects such as diversity, discrimination, disability, road safety and values.
Support for Learning
A notable strength of Loretto is our experienced Support for Learning department. Support is given according to the needs of each individual child in all curricular areas. All children are screened using National tests, and, if required, the School can arrange for an educational psychologist's report. We consult parents and work alongside class teachers in the classroom.
Leadership and Responsibility
We encourage all our children to think independently and to take responsibility for their actions. In addition to this, pupils are given positions of responsibility as they progress through the School. Each term in Year 7 (11 years) two pupils are given the job of Head Nipper and they work with the management team and their peers to help the smooth running of the School. All Year 7 pupils are also given individual responsibility for different elements of School life. These jobs can be as diverse as being Junior Road Safety Officer, Early Years Playground Helper and a member of the Eco-Committee.
Campus and Security
The classrooms all have button-locked security. The playground for the Early Years is situated in a courtyard with secure access. All playground areas are staffed at break and playtimes.
Food
The quality of food at Loretto is excellent. Children are encouraged to eat sensibly and learn about the importance of having a balanced, healthy diet. Children eat with staff in the Nippers' dining room. They can choose from a hot or cold meal followed by a pudding or fresh fruit. A mid morning snack is also served. All food is prepared and cooked at School. Special dietary needs can be accommodated.