JUNIOR PRIMARY
The Junior Primary phase of Cordwalles is a happy vibrant place with lots of activity, fun and interactive learning happening. There is always a busy hum as boys are encouraged to work together to discover new knowledge in a structured, organised environment where the development of a positive self esteem is of paramount importance. The exploration of creative ideas is a focus and the development of problem solving and critical thinking skills through activities makes this school an ideal learning environment for young boys. They begin to work co-operatively with their peers and develop their language skills as they communicate their ideas and learn tolerance and acceptance of others in group situations.
Boys learn best when they are actively involved and therefore the outside classroom is utilised extensively at Cordwalles. The boys go on many outings where they can benefit from experiential learning and knowledge gained from experts in their fields. These “Magic Moments” make school a memorable and exciting place to be, where friendships are shared and boys’ strengths and passions are identified and enhanced. Boys who need academic support are able to benefit from the services of several experienced remedial teachers, an occupational therapist and a speech therapist. These professionals work within the school and the boys attend therapy during the school day.
Because at Cordwalles we are concerned about developing the whole child and providing a balanced, dynamic curriculum, both the spiritual and physical aspects of our boys are important to us. Our boys attend assemblies and chapel each week where our faith in God and the development of a strong value system is emphasised. Grade 1 and 2 boys have sports practice biweekly and the emphasis on enjoyment, participation and good sportsmanship makes these practices a firm favourite with the boys. A variety of sports are offered during the year and the boys are given the opportunity to enjoy the challenge of matches against opponents from other schools. Our Grade 3 boys take part in a fuller sports programme where longer sports practices and some weekend matches are the norm.
Each year at Cordwalles our Grade 3 boys take the lead in our school production. This is always a highlight of their Junior Primary school careers and is one which they look forward to with excitement and anticipation. The younger boys participate in supportive roles and great fun is had by all with colourful costumes and happy music the order of the day! Art and music lessons offered by specialist teachers allow our boys to experience a full cultural programme where they can identify their skills and passions early in their school careers and develop their areas of personal excellence. Individual tuition in a variety of musical instruments is offered as they become age appropriate. Design and Information Technology and media skills are also an integral part of the curriculum.
Our Junior Primary phase of the school is headed up by Gill Hall and a very capable, experienced and committed team of teachers. Wendy Fryer-Dudley and Belinda Veenstra are the Grade 1 teachers, Vivienne Ford teaches with Gill Hall in Grade 2 and Laura-Jane Colepeper and Debbie Venter are the Grade 3 teachers. These ladies provide a caring and nurturing environment for our young charges, where boys are extended and developed and given a real academic, social and emotional foundation before moving into the Senior Primary phase of the school.
