Upper Junior School Subjects
Mathematics
In the Upper Junior School we continue to build on the solid foundation and passion that has been developed for Mathematics in St Margaret’s. We follow the Pearson Abacus scheme, from the United Kingdom, until Grade 6. In Grade 7 we consolidate all the concepts that have been taught and ensure that the students are ready for Senior School and that they feel confident in applying mathematical skills within the subject and to daily situations.
Upper Junior School Subjects
English
English is taught as a Home Language and our teachers are passionate in their approach. The language lessons are alive and dynamic, and embrace change, yet the basics of reading, writing, and language usage are emphasised and taught in context.
Our English classes are proudly South African and celebrate our home-grown authors and poets, yet we also expose our students to the classics and other celebrated writers. Reading is further promoted by the online reading programme, Reading Eggspress.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Afrikaans (First Additional Language)
Afrikaans is spoken across a number of different South African societies and, by learning this language rich in literature and culture, our pupils gain a deeper understanding of our history and people, and develop the skills, knowledge, competencies, and attitudes to function in a diverse society.
Upper Junior School Subjects
isiZulu (First Additional Language)
isiZulu is one of several prominent languages in South Africa and learning IsiZulu at Roedean School is a way of understanding diverse cultures and promoting intercultural interactions.
We strive to create spontaneous classroom interaction in our daily practice that integrates language, culture, and our students´ interests, so that they can communicate successfully in different contexts using the language.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Social Sciences
The study of Social Sciences in the Junior School is deeply committed to an Afrocentric curriculum and lays the foundations for our pupils to navigate the world and build an awareness of self, other, and the environment.
Teaching and learning focus on the development of the specialised languages and skills required for History and Geography, and using Thinking Skills strategies, such as Visible Thinking Routines, Thinking Maps, and de Bono’s Thinking Hats.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Natural Sciences
The study of Natural Sciences forms the basis for applied science subjects and focuses on the study of the universe and the rules of nature.
The curriculum is broken down into biology, chemistry, and physics. In the Junior School, the focus in all topics is on the scientific skills of description, prediction, and understanding, based on evidence from observation and experimentation.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Physical Education
Physical Education lessons are an important part of the day and our dynamic Sports’ Department ensures the pupils experience many opportunities to grow their personal fitness and hone their talents by participating in a range of individual and team sports.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Life Skills and Leadership
Roedean is committed to the personal, emotional, and social wellbeing of our community – pupils, teachers, and parents. We encourage the students to become more conscious of their physical and emotional wellbeing, their social responsibility, and their personal goals and ideals.
Upper Junior School Subjects
Mindfulness
Mindfulness training helps our students to understand their feelings, reduce stress, strengthen focus and attention span, and support social and emotional growth.
We have also implemented the Steerglobal AS Tracking tool, which allows us to monitor the mental well-being of our pupils, to identify those who are at emotional risk, and to intervene and provide the necessary support as early as possible.
