We place learning at the heart of all we do and we aim to develop children as life-long learners. At Parsons Down we have created a system of ‘Learning Gems’ with the aim of creating a climate in the classroom and in the school that cultivates habits and attitudes that make learning skills obvious. This will enable our children to become independent, resilient, resourceful and reflective learners who are confident to take risks and develop strong positive relationships to support their own learning.

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There are six key elements to learning gems that help to develop children’s learning and practical ability to apply skills across the curriculum. These are as follows:

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• Ruby (being kind to someone)

• Diamond (solving problems)

• Emerald (attempting new challenges)

• Sapphire (coping with distractions)

• Topaz (sharing ideas and valuing yourself and others)

• Amethyst (working as part of a group)

 

Children collect gems when they demonstrate one of the six key elements. They earn these for their houses (Beacon, Coombe, Ridgeway and Watership). These are collated each week by the Year 6 House Captains and in Friday’s celebration assembly when we celebrate learning.