Prospectus> Dunannie > Head, Hand and Heart

The founder of Bedales, J.H.Badley, wrote over a hundred years ago of the need to educate "Head, Hand and Heart". These values are still reflected at Dunannie today.

Head
Young children have an instinctive and insatiable thirst for knowledge. At Dunannie a carefully structured, yet flexible curriculum encourages the highest standards in the basic skills in a broad and balance programme of learning. (Literacy and Numeracy are taught from the Nursery onwards, using carefully planned schemes of work. Scientific thinking is developed through experimentation and problem solving.) Full use is made of the immediate environment of the large estate and also the local area; both are rich in exciting places to visit to enhance the children's learning.
By the time children leave Dunannie at 8 plus, they should expect to be fluent readers, spontaneous and literate writers, creative and critical thinkers, sound mathematicians and imaginative problem solvers.

Hand
In a creative and purposeful atmosphere, the children are encouraged to investigate and explore and discover more about the world about them. Children undertake a great variety of practical activities alongside written research. Model making, woodwork, drawing and painting stimulate the creative side of children and help them to develop a rich visual language. Music, Dance and Drama play a central part within the curriculum, and children are encouraged to learn a musical environment. The creative side is further encouraged through regular visits and workshops from outsiders. Creative expression is at the heart of many of our festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Sport is an important part of the curriculum; a wide range of activities is taught by specialists, using the excellent facilities enjoyed by the three schools. After school clubs for the older Dunannie children enable them to develop particular sporting and creative interests.

Heart
There is a strong moral and spiritual framework, providing a kind but firm environment where mutual respect and concern for each other are woven into the fabric of the school.