Curriculum
JUNIOR INFANTS – 2ND FORM
The first four years of Headfort’s program still use many of the methods set forth by Maria Montessori for their unique curriculum. Core subjects including Maths, English and Irish form the backbone of the program, which also incorporates weekly sessions of PE, Ukulele, French and Speech & Drama.
By introducing these ideas early with the entire group we encourage the children to support one another, bolstering their sense of community and this, in turn, leads to growth in confidence. We foster broad cultural and moral discussions in the classroom and utilize the extensive grounds for regular nature walks. Pupils also can avail of a number of extra-curricular lessons including piano and guitar.
The lower years occupy several imaginatively designed purpose-built classrooms in the stone courtyard building that historically housed important estate workers on the demesne, but also spend a good deal of time in the main school building. Children attend a school assembly once a week in the historic Eating Parlour, make use of the art room and enjoy the reading buddies program in the library with older pupils.
3RD FORM – 6TH FORM
With a principal aim to cultivate a love of learning, from 3rd to 6th Form, a ‘Primary plus’ core academic curriculum is taught by subject specialists who conduct termly reviews with parents.
This includes English, Maths, French or Spanish, History, Geography, Science (in a fully equipped laboratory), Religious Studies, Art & Design, Computing and a choice between Irish and Latin & Classics. Because we understand that no two children are the same and therefore all pupils will navigate education in their own way, our size allows us to support children as they move ahead through the school at their own rate and there is a teacher devoted to one-on-one sessions for pupils who require support.
The school has specialist Art & Design rooms with a traditional studio and a state-of-the-art Computer Design Lab where coding is an integral part of what is now taught. Children are regularly prepared for entry and scholarships to leading secondary schools in the locality and around Ireland and the UK including, recently, Eureka, St. Patrick’s Classical School, Alexandra College, Clongowes Wood College, St. Columba’s College, Cheltenham Ladies’s College, Eton College, Marlborough College and The King’s Hospital.