The curriculum at Salcombe, continually reviewed, takes due account of, but is not enslaved by, the National Curriculum. The continuous review process enables us to offer a successful yet challenging educational environment. Particular emphasis is placed on the core subjects of English, mathematics and science, and while ICT is also given emphasis as a distinct subject, we ensure that pupils are able to apply these useful skills across the curriculum.

In Salcombe’s small classes, learning is organised to allow pupils to progress as rapidly as their ability allows, while remaining, except in very unusual circumstances, within their own age group. Appropriate levels of homework are set at all levels.

Infant department, ages 4 - 7
(Reception, years 1 and 2)

Within a happy and relaxed atmosphere, children in Reception become used to a more formal approach to education with the emphasis on the basic skills of literacy and numeracy. Throughout the Infant department learning is mainly directed by class teachers, with qualified Teaching Assistants in each of the reception classes. Support is also provided by subject specialists in certain areas.

Junior department, ages 7-11
(years 3-6)

As the children move into the Junior department, teaching is largely by subject specialists across the curriculum, in order to provide the best possible tuition in the lead up to the 11+ examinations to selective schools in year 6. Children will still have a class “tutor” who will have a co-ordinating role and a pastoral responsibility to the children in their class. Parents are able to talk to the class tutor in the first instance for pastoral help and guidance.

During their time at Salcombe, pupils will experience English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), French, Physical Education, Art, Design Technology, Music, Drama, Personal, Health and Social Education and Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning.