Here in the Primary School of Queen’s College we provide our students with a broad and balanced curriculum that will prepare them to be productive members of our society. Students acquire the skills and knowledge that will enable them to function successfully in institutions of higher learning both at home and abroad. We produce not only good scholars, but also well-rounded individuals who have developed intellectual and physical abilities along with strength of character and sound values.

In addition to the internal examinations taken at the end of each term, students also sit the national G.L.A.T. (Grade Level Assessment Tests) in Grades Three and Six. In these exams our students consistently score well above the national average.

Currently students in Grades Two and Six also sit the Stanford 10 ability tests during the first term of the academic year. The results of all tests are used by teachers to diagnose and address areas of the curriculum that require special attention.

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LANGUAGE ARTS PROGRAMME

Our language arts programme addresses the four main areas: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. We feel that it is important to develop in our pupils the ability to communicate effectively in speech and writing, and to listen and read with understanding and enjoyment.

Speaking and Listening

We believe that our students should be able to express themselves clearly, confidently and in Standard English. From the very early years students are encouraged to share their ideas, feelings and experiences, and as they progress through the school, students are given further opportunities to share ideas and opinions, debate and discuss, and to report and describe findings and research.

Reading/ Language

We are proud of our reading programme and encourage our young students to be enthusiastic, reflective and independent readers. Students are expected to read on their own, with others and to the teacher, and to develop a love and appreciation for books.

During the first three years, children are introduced to the Harcourt Brace ‘Collections’ Literacy Programme which focuses on words and sentences and how they fit into whole texts. In addition to this text, a wide variety of other reading material is used.

In the upper years Collins Primary English is the core language scheme, but this is also supplemented by a wide range of teaching resources of British, American and Caribbean origin. Pupils are expected to analyze literature critically, and with a high level of comprehension.

Writing

Our students are made aware of the value and importance of writing as a means of communicating and developing ideas. They are taught to write in a variety of styles according to the intended audience, in addition they learn to organize, present, and edit their writing as well as learning to spell and punctuate correctly.

Handwriting

From an early age in our Early Learning Centre and Grade One we instill in our students correct handwriting skills and habits. Throughout the primary years these skills and habits are encouraged, reinforced and consolidated. Whilst specific handwriting skills are taught, students are expected to write neatly and legibly at all times. The Nelson New Handwriting Scheme is used throughout the Primary School and students begin to write in the joined style in Grade Two.

Spelling

Students are taught spelling patterns that are reinforced in our weekly spelling tests along with key words that are in current use in the classroom such as scientific vocabulary.

MATHEMATICS

We use the SRA Mathematics scheme ‘Explorations and Applications’. Whilst developing basic computation skills, this scheme places great emphasis upon thinking and problem solving strategies and the daily practice of mental arithmetic skills.  Students are introduced to mathematical stories that challenge them to think creatively when providing solutions.  Mathematical games that reinforce the concepts taught are also an integral part of the programme.

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SOCIAL STUDIES, GEOGRAPHY and HISTORY

Each term, students undertake an in-depth study of a topic or theme that integrates all aspects of the curriculum and promotes meaningful cross-curricular links.

During the Primary years, we equip our students with knowledge and understanding of the Bahamas and its culture. We consider it important that our students understand not only their own cultural heritage but also that of other world cultures, thereby igniting curiosity and interest in the wider world beyond them.

SCIENCE

Our science curriculum covers four major areas: Life Science, Physical Science, Earth Science and Technology and Society. Our programme is designed to stimulate and excite our pupils’ wonder in the world around them. Students learn to observe, question, experiment, deduce and reach conclusions based on scientific evidence. They acquire scientific knowledge, attitudes and skills that will enable them to make positive choices as literate citizens in a scientific and technology driven global community.

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

In our Primary IT suite we have presently 25 computers and an LCD projector that allows for whole class demonstrations. Classes are timetabled for weekly sessions in the suite where our specialist IT teacher teaches them a range of skills. Soon our computers will be on line, and students will be able to partake in a wide variety of web related activities. During the next phase of our I.T development plan computers will be available for student use in all classrooms.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Our students are taught the traditions and beliefs of Christianity and those of the Methodist Church, whilst respecting the religious background and beliefs of all members of the school and wider community. Students are encouraged to apply Christian principles in their daily lives at home and at school. Collective worship is held twice per week for all students, and teachers conduct a short morning devotion and prayer on other days.

CHARACTER EDUCATION

Our Primary School Guidance Counsellor leads these sessions. Students are taught to make responsible decisions, understand the consequences of their actions and make good personal choices in their daily lives. Teachers reinforce this teaching in daily classroom life, and we encourage and recognize students who demonstrate positive characters traits.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION

In these lessons, children progress through a range of physical activities and skills using small apparatus such as bats, balls, ropes, hoops and quoits. Lessons also include training in athletics, games and gymnastics. Whilst we aim to develop and improve levels of physical competence we also promote good sportsmanship and a positive attitude towards physical activity that we hope will continue into adult life. Two Sports Days are held annually, one for the lower and the other for upper primary students.

Our school offers an excellent swimming programme and students enjoy weekly lessons in the pool. Teaching is based upon the Swim America programme and students progress through a series of skill stations to reflect the developing abilities of beginning and competent swimmers. By the time they leave the Primary School, most of our students are confident and proficient swimmers.

At the end of the year, swimming galas are held for each section of the school with fun races for beginning swimmers and competitive races for competent swimmers. [Back to top]

SPANISH

Spanish is taught by a specialist throughout the Primary School. Introductory lessons in Spanish begin in term two of Grade One. Older students have two lessons per week during which reading and writing skills are developed along with oral competence.

ART

In these weekly lessons, children express themselves using colour and pattern. The lessons develop fine motor and observational skills and the children are exposed to a range of materials and activities. Students are also introduced to major world artists and their artistic styles. 

MUSIC

Students are involved in singing, listening to music, movement and percussion work.