Key stages 1 and 2 cover the years from the beginning of Year 1 in primary school to the end of primary education in Year 6. This is a time when children are developing their basic skills in the core subjects of reading, writing and mathematics.
In September 2014 the national curriculum for schools in England was updated. The Jersey curriculum is based on the national curriculum so the changes apply to Jersey schools.
The Jersey curriculum now sets out what must be taught in Maths, English and Science lessons which will take up a substantial part of a child’s learning week. Alongside these are other 'foundation subjects': Art, Computing, Design and Technology, French, Geography, History, Music, PSHE (including Citizenship), Physical Education as well as Religious Education. Schools now have more flexibility in what they cover in these subjects.
The parent's guide below has been designed to help parents support their children in making the most of their education. It provides an outline of the typical content and some background information about how the curriculum and assessment works.
The Jersey curriculum in primary schools - a guide for parents (size 2MB)
The Jersey curriculum sets out the statutory learning programme that schools must follow to provide all pupils with a broad and balanced education.
The Jersey curriculum sets out for each subject what pupils should be taught (programmes of study) and the expected attainment targets. Pupils are expected to know, apply and understand the matters, skills and processes specified in the relevant programme of study.
Key stage 1 develops pupils' key skills and as they progress through key stage 2 pupils broaden their knowledge which prepares them for secondary education.
Key stage 1 is for children aged 5 - 7 years and key stage 2 is for children aged 7 - 11 years. Both stages are available in all primary schools.
It is important for young children to practice their basic skills as much as possible.
You can help your child by:
- daily encouragement to read a book and practice mathematical skills (eg counting, times tables etc)
- providing a suitable home environment for your child to undertake their homework
- attending parents' evenings -an important part of ensuring you are aware how your child is coping in primary school (It also plays a part in encouraging their positive attitude to learning)
In Year 6 it is important that you and your child start thinking about transferring to secondary school.