We believe intellectual progress is more comprehensive and secure if it takes place in a culture that places a high value on individual worth, respect for others, and a sense of responsibility. We are committed to giving our pupils the kind of start in life which ensures that they grow to be happy, confident individuals who are intellectually discriminating and able to take advantage of the opportunities given to them.
At The Roche School, we believe that ability and talent are not fixed entities and that through effort, practice, and great teaching, pupils become more competent in a given discipline. Our curriculum and setting system is focused on enriching and extending children based on their current ability. We offer enrichment opportunities both within and outside the classroom. In class, teachers use problem-solving, philosophical inquiry, and self-evaluation to deepen learning.
Our curriculum is taught by inspiring teaching staff who work hard individually and collectively to ensure that pupils fully achieve their potential whilst they are with us. Attitudes to learning are important: we encourage pupils to enjoy challenges whether they are working together and independently. In academic subjects, we run small classes where children benefit from personal attention and support. We are proud of our strong academic record with pupils gaining places at top London secondary schools and encourage pupils to excel.
Children equally enjoy having the opportunity to develop beyond the classroom by taking part in a wealth of extra-curricular activities which include further classes in art, dance, sport, music, and languages, often with specialist teachers. The atmosphere at the school is happy and polite, as our strong, values-based pastoral system emphasizes the importance of kindness and respect towards others
The Roche provides a well-balanced curriculum that encourages pupils to excel in their academic subjects, sporting activities, and the arts. Besides helping them achieve their deserved results, our teaching engages children in the subject matter, leaving them impatient to know more and keen to ask questions.
We are proud that Ofsted commended the children’s “outstanding progress” in their various subjects (2014). And we believe the pupils show such progress because we understand that ability and talent are not fixed entities through effort, practice, and great teaching, pupils can become more competent in a given discipline. Our small classes, curriculum, and setting system in certain subjects focus on helping the children perform better and feel more confident.
When students come to the school, their English level is assessed. If the child needs support to successfully access the curriculum, they are taught one to three sessions a week, either individually or in a small group of 1:2 or 1:3 children. These sessions are taught by specialist teachers trained in teaching English as an Additional Language.
The lessons aim to develop fluency in speaking, reading, and listening. Classes are multisensory and involve reinforcement through role-play, games, and activities. We use the Macmillan English World Series for core textbooks and additional resources are brought in as required.
