At Plympton St. Maurice we aim for excellence. In line with the current National Curriculum we provide a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum for all through a cross curricular, topic approach. .
Lessons are approached through group work, whole class and individual teaching. Our own grounds and surrounding area provide many opportunities for first hand experience. To enrich the children's learning and provide further hands-on learning we take advantage of the Museum Loan Services, art collections, artists and musicians-in-residence, authors, illustrators, visits and residentials.
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English permeates the whole curriculum and speaking and listening skills are developed through drama, debates, discussions, class assemblies and productions. Reading is of paramount importance and to encourage this we have an attractive, well-stocked library with 'Glad Bags' containing books and activities to share with an adult. Our reading award scheme allows all the children to read and succeed. Extra speaking and listening groups and special reading groups encourage children who need to develop these all-important skills.
Mathematics is a fundamental tool for everyday life. It is a core subject of the National Curriculum through which the children are taught Number, Measures, Algebra, Shape and Application of Mathematics. The daily Numeracy Hour ensures the important aspect of mental arithmetic is practised regularly in a variety of ways. It is important that the children are given every opportunity to apply their skills in practical situations, solve problems and investigate ideas.
Information Technology is an essential tool in our modern world and allows access to all aspects of education. We use ICT to teach all elements of the curriculum and children are taught computer skills from the Foundation Stage. Interactive White Boards in each class reinforce the importance of technology as a tool for teaching, learning and life in the Twenty First Century. 
Religious Education is taught in accordance with the syllabus agreed by the Local Education Authority and reflects our understanding of the diverse society in which we live. Parents may request that their child be excused from any act of worship or lesson. Any such requests should be made to the Headteacher.
Sex Education is taught to Year 6 pupils as an integral part of our Health Education Programme. The school nurse supports the lessons and is available for children to ask questions. Parents of year 6 pupils are invited to a meeting, prior to this part of the curriculum being introduced, to see the video on which our teaching is based. Parents may withdraw their child if they think fit.
A broad range of Physical Education and sport is provided at Plympton St Maurice. The skills are introduced and practised at Key Stage 1 (Infants) and developed at Key Stage 2 (Juniors). By the time children reach year 6 they are confident in Football, Rounders, Athletics, Hockey and Tag Rugby. Through our clubs we offer a wide range of sports, including cross-country running, net ball, judo and tag-rugby. There is also a Gymnastics Club.
Swimming tuition is provided for Y4 and Y5 children and takes place at the local Plympton Pool.
Physical Education is an essential part of the curriculum. Children cannot be excused from P.E. except by a note from a parent or carer, or for medical reasons. Having the correct kit is important for health and safety reasons.
Science introduces children to knowledge of science and the applications and implications of science. Our topic based approach aims to relate science to every day life and to ensure its relevance to the children. There is a dedicated Science/ Technology week in the summer term.
Design Technology in the curriculum enables children to be given practical challenges to help them be inventive in defining the task and selecting appropriate materials for a finished product. Both the arts and science come together in the children's learning and increasing application of their computer skills.
Humanities help children understand the world they live in. Our own grounds, Dartmoor, the coast and surrounding areas provide rich and varied opportunities for the children to learn about and question life in the past and its influence on the present. This backdrop also supports the teaching of environmental issues and geography skills. We have a very special partnership with the City Museum. A Multi-cultural week is held in the autumn term.
All children are offered experiences for creative expression in all the arts. Work is often based on a thematic approach and draws from many cultures and traditions. We encourage freedom of expression as well as an awareness of the world around us. Music plays an important part in school life and there is a school choir. We also offer tuition in a wide range of instruments and both the choir and musicians perform during assemblies and productions. There is an annual whole school Christmas production and Nativity. During Arts Week we bring in artists to work with children, teachers and parents to work on larger projects and enhance skills and awareness. These have included mask making, willow-sculptures, large-scale painting, African drumming and a Samba Band. Our annual Book Week always includes visits from authors/illustrators, storytellers and drama workshops.
At weekends and during the holidays we run family 'Art Days' and at Christmas we hold a gift making workshop for families.
We have a school kiln.
The Personal, Social, Health and Emotional (PSHE) development of our children underpins all aspects of teaching and learning and is embedded within the ethos of our school. Through class circle time and discussion groups children come to understand their world. There is a weekly PSHE assembly and the new School Council plays an active role in developing life skills for the children of our school. There is a dedicated Citizenship Week in the summer term, some of events and visitors include; community police, road safety, first aid taster sessions, RSPCA, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Macmillan Nursing.
Children visit senior citizens in the local community to sing Christmas and Easter carols and distribute our Harvest gifts following the Harvest Festival which is held in St Maurice Church.
Through our Homework and our Home/School Communications Book we aim to establish a partnership which will enable us all to proceed with confidence and enthusiasm as we work together. We aim to foster a love for reading that will help your child become a 'Reader for Life' and motivate children to want to learn in all areas of English and mathematics.
It is envisaged that parents will support and encourage their children to complete their homework tasks within the set time.
Primary School
Tel: 01752 337427, Fax: 01752 331568