Rowandale follows the Revised Curriculum as set out by the CCEA.

The Revised Curriculum takes into consideration the individual styles of learning of children and complements our own sensitive and child centred approach to education. There is a family friendly atmosphere in our school. Our teachers know the children individually and our small classes enhance attainment. We aim to develop in children the ability to understand what they are learning, how they are learning, and why. As well as providing a solid foundation in the core subjects of Literacy and Numeracy, the curriculum incorporates the study of Religious Education, PE, the Arts, The World Around Us, Personal Development and Mutual Understanding and Information Communication Technology. We use the Primary Movement Programme within the Foundation Stage to enhance the educational attainment of children with specific learning difficulties.

In keeping with the integrated status of the school, we place particular emphasis on Personal Development and Mutual Understanding. We facilitate our children in conflict resolution in the playground and in the classroom. We encourage our children to become confident individuals who have a realistic and positive self-concept, and who are able to acknowledge their strengths and development needs. In addition we assist our children to become responsible citizens who will adopt inclusive principles in their work and in their play, both locally and globally.

A religious studies programme has been devised that reflects the integrated ethos of the school. Open Assemblies are held monthly and parents and representatives of all religious denominations in the community are invited to participate. As well as their statutory religious curriculum all children are encouraged to explore world faiths and cultures at various times throughout the year. Denominational religious instruction is provided according to the wishes of the parents. Parents may choose to withdraw from this provision. Catholic children are prepared for the sacraments by qualified staff in liaison with church representatives.

Learning to read is a multi-sensory activity and a tried and tested linguistic/synthetic phonics method is used. Storysacks have been introduced to involve the family in developing and nurturing an interest in books. We encourage cursive handwriting which enhances fluency, movement and confidence.

The curriculum is split into 7 sections.

• Language & Literacy
• Mathematics & Numeracy
• The Arts
• The World Around Us
• Personal Development & Mutual Understanding
• Physical Development & Movement
• Religious Education