At Horizon School, we offer a broad and balanced curriculum, based on the National Curriculum for England and Wales 1998, with a strong emphasis on Literacy and Numeracy throughout Key Stages 1 and 2. However, we are in the fortunate position of being free to adopt the best of the National Curriculum and modify it to suit the needs of our children. We have adopted the approaches recommended for the Numeracy and Literacy Hours.

As in the UK, English, mathematics, science and information and communication technology are given priority as Core Curriculum subjects. Meanwhile teachers have been given greater flexibility, within the curriculum guidelines, in selecting the material to be included in the Foundation Subjects, history, geography, physical education, design and technology, music and art.

Our curriculum is approved by the Ministry of Education. We have a 'no exclusion' policy, ie all children participate in all subject areas.

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All areas of the National Curriculum are covered thoroughly within an integrated programme of speaking, listening, reading and writing using the literacy hour strategy. Effective communication, both oral and written, is the key aim of the English curriculum and, when necessary, Learning Support is offered to enable all pupils to achieve this aim. Spelling is considered a vital tool for writing and, as such, is reinforced at all levels with class lessons and regular assessments.

The numeracy strategy, with its interactive approach, is used throughout the school. A strong emphasis is placed on mental strategies, exploration and discussion of concepts. Developing mathematical language, selecting and using materials and reasoning skills, are taught in the context of other areas such as shape and space, number and data handling.

A comprehensive programme of science study is offered, incorporating experimental and investigative science, life processes and living things, materials and their properties and physical processes, as required by the National Curriculum. To ensure continuity, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Scheme is used from Year 1 to Year 6.

All children, from Preschool to Year 6, attend Information and Communication Technology (ICT) classes, which are taught by ICT Specialists in the computer room. A comprehensive, carefully structured programme using ICT guidelines as set out by the National Curriculum of England and Wales is followed. This enables pupils to apply and develop their ICT capability through the use of computers and other technology to support their learning in all subjects at both Key Stages 1 and 2. Children also have the opportunity to use computers and other ICT tools in their classrooms and central areas, to allow them to develop their ideas to enhance the quality and accuracy of their work.

The school has access to the Internet in classrooms, the computer room and library area for research and exchange of information. Use of the Internet and e-mail is closely supervised and monitored.

Horizon pupils also have the opportunity to further their ICT skills in the Computer Club during afternoon activities.

History and Geography are taught through topic and project lessons with a strong emphasis on research skills, using both traditional methods and the Internet. Our children cover all elements of the National Curriculum plus a whole school study of the United Arab Emirates, when each year group studies a specific aspect of either the history or the geography of Arabia.

All children, from Pre-school to Year 6, participate in a well-planned, structured Music programme based on the National Curriculum, which includes singing, percussion, movement and musical appreciation.

During Key Stage 1, children learn to read music and are often given the opportunity to perform on recorders in class assemblies. In Key Stage 2, the children continue to play the recorder but are also introduced to glockenspiels, xylophones and keyboards. They are given the opportunity to participate in private instrumental tuition after school in our music centre. As well as weekly Key Stage assemblies, the Musical Director organises two school productions each year.

A broad-based curriculum is offered, again by a specialist teacher, which aims to develop positive attitudes to physical activities and a healthy life-style. Swimming, a statutory requirement in the UK, is a priority area but importance is also given to gymnastics, team games (both co-operative and competitive) and dance.

In accordance with Ministry of Education requirements, all children receive tuition in the Arabic language from a specialist teacher.

Year 5 and 6 students receive an introductory course in French with an emphasis on oral communication.