Primary Years

6 to 11 years old

During this stage of their development, children start to consciously realize the dynamics within the group. Leaders as well as the followers start to appear. The children become aware of their own position within the social setting and start to apply critical criteria to their identity as a group member. Besides this discovery, they also find out what involves being right or wrong, and have to start creating their very own multitude of shades encompassed by these two extremes. This within itself is not an easy task to accomplish. Knowing these characteristics, it is of the utmost importance that the adults, who spend the days with the children, guide them in their process of becoming balanced social beings. On the one hand they should encourage the children to become strong and confident, whilst on the other hand they should endeavour to maintain their natural role as a positive group member.

Together with these above-mentioned characteristics, the primary years allow for a solid period of learning and studying, by utilizing their characterisitcs as the guiding principles in the curriculum development and the way it is implemented. Working in mixed age groups, the existing groups dynamics are made use of to the fullest in order to establish a healthy working attitude. Some of the children who have already participated for one or two years in the group, automatically take on the role of leader under the guidance of the teachers, based upon the previous years where they have experienced positive role-models. Other children might need some encouragement.

The teachers are in the position to work with smaller or larger groups, introducing new concepts, revising previously taught lessons, rehearsing needed facts, or exposing the children to another aspect of the world surrounding them. Having a mind- set that is capable of extending beyond the here and now, stories can be told, that light their flame of imagination. These stories can either take the children with them back or forwards in time, space or place.
Such an approach to presenting this fascinating place we live in, allows for many different small group studies, individual projects or an extended research. By making study plans, time lines, draft readings and establishing dead lines, the teachers help the children to work and study in a conducive manner. Managing these variety of topics is part of the daily activities of the teachers, with the added bonus that there is an ongoing buss of activities and excitement going on.

The knowledge traditional required in order to function in the society we are living in, such as writing, including good spelling, and math facts and operations are taken care of on a regular basis. It is of utmost importance that during this stage in their life, the children are exposed to the society. In that way they become conscious of what is needed and expected. ‘Going Out’ is something that continuously takes place. In small groups children go out, and upon their return they share their experiences with the others. Before or after such a presentation the teachers highlight the aspects that are relevant in our society.

Over time the aspects addressed become more comprehensive and complete, thus giving the children the chance to experience the relevance of the skills practiced.
Whilst helping the child to be prepared for life, enjoyable learning takes place!