Years 5 & 6
Pupils complete their primary years in the historic Cathedral Close. The superb buildings, including the magnificent 17th century Palace, are set against the dramatic presence of the Cathedral. Years 5 & 6 are accommodated together in their own building, called Broadhurst.
The pupils' school experience is designed to benefit from the strengths of a primary model while taking advantage of the
facilities available at the Lichfield site. The pupils are taught by a team of Key Stage 2 specialists who come to their classrooms, yet they can use nearby drama, music and sports facilities.
Their timetable is designed to allow an earlier start to lunch and a slightly earlier finish at the end of the day, and they have their own playgrounds. Movements between buildings are supervised by staff. During these two years, the pupils get to know the Lichfield campus, the teachers, support staff and older pupils, so that when they transition to Year 7, they are comfortable with their surroundings and keen to take advantage of specialist teachers for each subject.
All children study English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Religious Studies, Music, Art, Design and Technology, Drama, French, Computing, Physical Education, Games and Wellbeing/RSE. The Co-Curriculum is a vibrant and integral part of each child’s education. Pupils are actively encouraged to experience the full breadth of activities.
In Year 6, pupils enjoy a residential visit to an outward bound centre, where they take part in a wide range of physical activities designed to develop self-confidence and self-belief, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, as well as resilience. Adventures like these form memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
Transition to Senior School
Moving from primary to secondary school can be a daunting time for both parents and children which is why we work hard to prepare pupils for the transition to Senior School. A group of Year 7 pupils volunteer to be Buddies to look after the Year 6s. Activities throughout the spring and summer are designed to introduce children to their new teachers and classrooms. We find that learning about practical things, like the layout of the school and what to do if they get lost, helps to address most concerns, while the chance to make new friends before the summer holiday helps to reassure children that they will not be on their own.
As there will be 3 Forms in each year group in the Senior School, these activities are important to introduce the children new to the Cathedral School joining at the start of Year 7. To help with integration, the Forms are reconfigured to include current pupils and those new to the School.
