KEY STAGE 2 (YEARS 3 – 6)

KEY STAGE 2 (YEARS 3 – 6)

Home > KEY STAGE 2 (YEARS 3 – 6)

"An inspiring educational experience is the greatest gift we can give our children and that is why choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a family can make. A genuine ethos of warmth and positive learning has been instilled across our school and the flame of learning is well and truly lit at Hartland International School. I look forward to welcoming you and your family to join us on our journey."

Mrs. Shahida Ibrahim Head of Primary

Academics

Key Stage 2 offers a rigorous education based on the National Curriculum for England, deepening students' knowledge and skills across core and specialist subjects. In English, students engage with a variety of texts to enhance their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Mathematics covers a wide range of concepts, encouraging creative problem-solving and participation in challenges like the Primary Maths Challenge. Inquiry-based science promotes curiosity and hands-on experimentation. Specialist subjects include Art, PE, and Music, guided by expert teachers to foster creativity, physical fitness, and musical appreciation. Our programme equips them with knowledge, critical thinking, and essential life skills such as collaboration, presentation, and even healthy debate.

Enrichment

Key Stage 2 students enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance their learning and personal growth. Sports options like football, basketball, rugby, cricket, netball, tennis, aquathlon, cross-country, athletics, swimming, and golf promote fitness, resilience, and teamwork. Creative arts activities, including drama clubs (such as LAMDA), music lessons, and art clubs, foster performance skills, creativity, and self-expression. The enrichment programme offers over 130 activities, including the Formula One club, encouraging new passions and critical thinking. Outdoor activities like horse riding at Al Habtoor Polo Club and skiing at Ski Dubai develop resilience and a sense of adventure. The House System, dividing students into Mushrif, Creekside, Zabeel, and Safa, engages them in competitions and flagship events like Hartland’s Got Talent, Sports Day, and the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30x30, fostering community and healthy competition. 

Pastoral Care

Pastoral care for Key Stage 2 students at Hartland International School ensures every child feels secure, valued, and supported. The ‘Hart to Hearts’ programme allows teachers to build strong relationships and provide personalised support. Lessons on well-being, growth mindset, and meta-cognition help students manage emotions and build resilience. An inclusive approach with specialist teachers offers additional support, and a Gifted and Talented coordinator ensures more able students excel. Regular communication with parents fosters a collaborative effort in supporting each child. The school's facilities, including a gym, pool, library, auditorium, sports pitches, and ICT suite, enhance both academic and extracurricular activities, helping students develop into confident, independent, and socially skilled individuals.

TYPICAL DAY OF KEY STAGE 2 (YEARS 3 – 6)

07:45 AM - 08:30 AM

The morning kicks off with engaging English lessons where students read high-quality texts and develop their writing skills. Whether exploring literature like modern classics or practicing creative writing, the focus is on fostering a love for reading and expressive language.

08:30 AM - 09:15 AM

Students then delve into mathematics, applying concepts to real-life situations and tackling challenges like problem-solving and logical reasoning. Lessons are tailored to stretch students’ abilities, with opportunities for more advanced challenges like the Primary Maths Challenge.

09:15 AM - 09:45 AM

After a productive start to the morning, students have a snack break followed by outdoor play. This time allows them to refresh and socialize, re-energizing for the next part of the day.

09:45 AM - 10:30 AM

Students explore the world around them through interactive topic lessons that may include history, geography, or science. Whether investigating maps or learning about historical events, the lessons encourage critical thinking and inquiry-based learning.

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Students rotate through specialist subjects like art, music, or physical education, where they can develop their creativity, coordination, and artistic talents. These lessons provide variety and opportunities to pursue different interests.

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

During this time, students either enhance their Arabic skills or study a modern foreign language like French or Spanish. These language lessons build communication skills and broaden cultural awareness.

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM

Students enjoy a nutritious lunch and some downtime, allowing them to relax and socialize with friends. The break prepares them for the second half of the day.

12:30 PM - 01:30 AM

In the afternoon, students participate in STEM activities, which often include hands-on projects and experiments. This session encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking in a practical context.

01:30 PM - 02:00 PM

The day concludes with a reflection period where students discuss what they’ve learned and engage in wellbeing activities. Whether it’s a mindfulness session or a ‘Hart to Hearts’ conversation, this time is dedicated to ensuring students leave the school day feeling positive and supported.

Care

At Hartland, a nurturing environment is fostered through personalised attention and strong teacher-student relationships. Programmes like "Hart to Hearts" and dedicated well-being lessons ensure students feel valued and supported. The school prioritises social and emotional development, promoting a sense of belonging and community among students, teachers, and parents.

Ambition

Hartland's curriculum evolves with students' developing talents, encouraging inquisitiveness and deeper engagement with subjects. A comprehensive academic programme, aligned with the National Curriculum, develops critical thinking and essential life skills. This approach prepares students for future success, inspiring ambition through rigorous coursework and opportunities for independent research.

Challenge

Hartland challenges students with a rigorous academic curriculum and a vibrant array of extra-curricular activities. The Hartland Enrichment Programme offers over 130 activities, complementing the regular curriculum. This programme, along with initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, fosters creativity, physical skills, and a love for exploration, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Key Stage 2 at Hartland International School?

Key Stage 2 at Hartland International School is Years 3 to 6 in line with the National Curriculum for England. This phase of learning provides a holistic and academic framework and where additional and new subjects such as drama and a choice of language provision extends the curriculum.

Which new subjects are introduced in Key Stage 2?

In addition to existing specialist classes, Key Stage 2 introduces drama as a discrete and specialist subject. The specialist subjects of music, art, design technology, computer science, languages, drama, and topic work enrich the curriculum and provide diverse learning experiences.

How does the school connect learning to the real world?

The curriculum is designed to connect learning to the real world, making education relevant and practical for students.

How are students encouraged to organise their own learning?

Students are encouraged to become increasingly capable of organising their own learning, understanding their goals, and knowing when to seek help or guidance. This is further developed though our high Performance Learning framework.

What strategies are taught to students for achieving their goals?

Students learn to identify their learning strengths, areas for growth, and develop successful strategies to achieve both academic and personal goals.

How does the personalised approach benefit students?

The personalised approach helps students build confidence in facing future challenges with determination and enthusiasm, fostering a commitment to contributing to their community.

What role do students take on as they prepare for Secondary School?

As students prepare for Secondary School, they transition from being learners to leaders, developing the skill set, attitudes, and knowledge needed for this role. A student executive leadership team work alongside the adult leaders of the school toensure that student voice is loud and cklear and has genuine impact on the school environment. 

What is the focus of the Humanities subject?

Humanities in the guise of topic work has a focus on the teaching of history and geography helping students connect their learning to global contexts and historical perspectives.

How does Hartland International School support global citizenship?

The school fosters a commitment to global citizenship, encouraging students to understand their role in the community and contribute positively as leaders.

How are students' academic and personal growth monitored?

Students are guided to identify their strengths and areas for growth, with teachers providing personalised strategies and support to help achieve their goals. The Heart to Hart wellbeing framework ensures that students are listened to and supported in all aspects of school life.

What skills do students develop in Key Stage 2?

Students develop a wide range of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and leadership, preparing them for future academic and personal success.

How does Hartland International School prepare students for the future?

Through a personalised approach, rigorous academic framework, and emphasis on global citizenship and leadership, Hartland prepares students to face future challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.

The Hartland Secondary School consists of three distinct Key Stages:

Key Stage 3, the first years of secondary school is delioverted across Years 7 throught to Year 9

Key Stage 4, covers a two year programme of more specialist learning and ends with formal external examinations

Key Stage 5, usually know as Sixth Form, is the final two years of school during which students specialize on 3 or 4 subject areas leading to university college or employment and training.

What is the role of Tutor Groups and PSHE in the secondary phase?

All students are assigned to a Tutor Group and participate in a PSHE (Personal, Social, Health Education) programme which is supported by a strong assembly-themed provision during tutor time. The PSHE programme aims to support the personal, social, and health education of students, helping them develop important life skills and values. The role of the Form Tutor is integral to the social and emotional development of the student and takes over from the class teacher who has been key to the development of the students in the primary phase of the school. Form Tutors are the key personel who over the course of the secondary phase will know the students and their learning on a more holistic level and when in sixth form, the tutor will be key in supporting students with university applications. 

What enrichment opportunities are available in secondary?

Students can engage in a wide variety of enrichment activities, including a full range of sports, creative arts, academic pursuits and community-based activities. Programmess such as Model United Nations, The International Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and global and local debating challenges enrich the whole school experience of the students. The enrichment programme is further enhanced through a wide range of trips and visits, many of them overseas, and is designed to inspire, challenge, and engage students, helping them explore future careers, stretch their natural talents and develop new interests.

How does Hartland International School develop study skills in secondary school?

Form Tutors and expert specialist experienced staff guide students through this developmental phase as they grow through the secondary school. As students themselves develop, the school supports them on building excellent study skills essential for academic success and indeed for the challenges of future learning beyond school. Prep time is designated in Year 7 to specifically build on these skills as studets enter the secondary phase.