Curriculum

The curriculum followed at St. Cronan's is based on the following principles:-

• the full and harmonious development of the child
• respect for individual differences
• the use of activity and discovery methods
• the use of environment based learning when possible

The following subjects constitute our curriculum

English

Oral Work

• That every pupil grow in confidence and ease of self expression

Reading

• To promote reading for pleasure
• To liaise consistently with the remedial teacher to ensure an effective programme for pupils with learning difficulties

Writing

• To ensure that every pupil be literate leaving St. Cronan's in accordance with their age and intellectual ability.

Irish

Oral Work

• the main emphasis will be on communication skills. That each pupil be able to hold a simple meaningful conversation in Irish.

Reading and Writing

• That each pupil develop reading and writing appropriate to his ability and to enhance his communication and comprehension skills. That all our pupils should come to appreciate and love our national culture and heritage and the vital part the Irish language plays in this.

Maths

• To lay a secure foundation of skills, understanding and knowledge in order for each child to attain his full mathematical potential. We will recognise the diversity of experiences, aptitudes and abilities in planning our curriculum of work. Our primary aim will be to allow each child to develop his confidence.

Social and Environment Studies

• To stimulate and foster in each child an interest in the world around him

Science

Objectives

• to foster attitude and curiosity
• to provide interest and enjoyment
• to develop the ability to carry out practical investigations
• to show how science is related to everyday life
• to encourage children to appreciate their environment
• to develop the ability to define problems and to fund solutions

Methodology:

We use a guided discovery approach. The process is just as important as the content. The students must be actively involved with a 'hands on' approach. Observation leads to a hypothesis which can be tested by experiment.

Music

• To enlarge the musical experience of the children through singing, music making and listening

Physical Education

• We aim to promote the organic well being of the child. To develop a suitable range of motor skills and to help him to cultivate desirable social attitudes.

Health Education

• To promote awareness, knowledge and understanding of health matters and to encourage the child to adopt a healthy life-style.

Art and Craft

The programme for each class covers the following areas

Picture Pattern Design

Craft

Techniques

Art Appreciation

• The Renaissance
• Expressionism
• Irish
• Impressionism
• Modern

Photography

Religion

• The aim of our religous education programme is to foster and deepen the child's faith.