For New Parents
Combe Down Primary is a popular school and prospective parents visit us regularly to look around and see what goes on here. When a child finally joins us, we do everything we can to make sure they settle in as smoothly and quickly as possible.
Starting a new school can be a new, and sometimes daunting, experience for both parents and children, with many questions to ask. Though this is far from an exhaustive list, here are some of the things new parents want to know...
What will my child be taught?
The School follows the National Curriculum. This means that our pupils cover nationally agreed areas of study in English, Mathematics, Science, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), History, Geography, Science, Art & Design, Design Technology, Music, French and Physical Education (PE). We are also required to teach Religious Education (RE), although it is not a National Curriculum subject.
In addition to the academic subjects specified in the National Curriculum, our school curriculum includes cross-curricular issues such as Personal, Social and Health Education, Sex and Relationships Education, Environmental Education and Multicultural Education.
Foundation Stage
In the first year, children follow the Foundation Stage Curriculum which embraces six areas; Communication, Language and Literacy, Mathematics, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Creative Development, Physical Development and Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
Yeargroups, Key Stages, Phases? What do they all mean?
Our school is organised into four groups, which are sometimes referred to as 'Phases', and sometimes 'Key Stages'. They are basically age-based groups which your child will move through as he or she progresses up the school.
| Age of Pupils | School Year(s) | Key Stage | Also known as: |
| 4-5 | Reception | Foundation Stage | FS |
| 6-7 | Years 1 & 2 | Key Stage 1 | Phase 1 |
| 8-9 | Years 3 & 4 | Key Stage 2 (Lower) | Phase 2 (Lower) |
| 10-11 | Years 5 & 6 | Key Stage 2 (Upper) | Phase 2 (Upper) |
All of the information on this site is arranged in Key Stages.
When can I visit the School?
Prospective parents are welcome at any time but are encouraged to visit the school whilst the children are working in order to see the various activities taking place and the very high standards of work being achieved, first hand.
Appointments should be made by ringing the School Secretary on 01225 840324.
How do I apply to admit or transfer my child to Combe Down?
All admission and transfer arrangements are carried out by the Local Authority. Information about these matters is in a booklet published by Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) in accordance with Section 8(5) of the Education Act 1980.
Copies are available from the school, or from the Education Service B&NES Council, Riverside, Temple Street, Keynsham, BS31 1LA. Tel: 01225 395204
LINKS: B&NES Admissions
