Our Philosophy

Our Philosophy is based on the uniqueness of each child. Each child is encouraged to bring forth his or her own qualities and feelings, which are respected. Teachers are open and prepared to listen and learn with the children. Apart from the purely intellectual side, we recognize other values such as self expression, socialization and the encouragement of a positive self-image. Such a foundation equips children to cope with the most stressful situations, which they may encounter on leaving Kestrel Manor.

Children’s Needs

Throughout the school we relate the children’s learning process to their level of emotional and intellectual maturity. All children need the basic skills of reading, writing and numeracy as tools for learning, but these skills are not an end in themselves. Young children are generally curious, independent in thought, love life and feel good about themselves. We wish them to keep these qualities and find meaning and enjoyment in all they do.

Interaction

Interaction is fostered amongst children and teachers. We aim to help one another. We do not encourage competition as this can engender anxieties in any child and discourage pupils with Learning Difficulties. It can also inhibit a child’s capacity to be responsible for their own progress. To win at all costs can become more important than learning; failure can lead to anxiety, lack of effort and poor achievement. Frequently, exams stress children and quite often do not measure originality, imagination, values, judgment or creativity. However, at Primary level we introduce continuous assessment tests leading to exams at the end of each term

Learning

We offer activity-based learning to encourage the natural growth of a child through action and play. A child needs to be an active participant both mentally and physically; it is therefore our role at Kestrel Manor to realize every child’s potential. We believe children have their own individual strengths and we aim to bring out these qualities, while at the same time improving their weaknesses and teaching them to accept those in others. In an atmosphere where compassion and sensitivity are fostered, a child feels secure and happy