Beyond The Classroom

Our Learning Environment

We believe children learn as much, if not more, outside the classroom as they do inside it. The co-curriculum at KJPS is designed to build resilience, improve self-discipline, and develop the skills required to work effectively as part of a team. Our tutorial system also helps to ensure that boys are reflective about themselves and their experiences with the aim of understanding how they might improve, which helps to build self-reliance and a sense of personal responsibility. However, for all its educational benefits, our aim is to ensure that the co-curriculum is a source of fun and enjoyment in an ever more stressful modern age. So, learning environment allows students to work in the social action sphere. We are also determined that children should be able to participate in as wide a range of activities as possible and that they are not restricted to a narrow programme. Talent in any activity is respected but participation is hugely valued, too, and children are encouraged to work hard in areas where they may not feel comfortable rather than sticking solely to well-known territory. In some activities we look to them to develop leadership skills, but in others we hope they will be effective ‘followers’. It is our goal that children develop positive values, encouraged by the example of their peers and their teachers. Although we make no apology for aiming for excellence in all we do, our teachers and coaches see themselves as educators first and foremost.

Music

Performing in front of an audience often involves a test of nerves, requiring an abundance of confidence and control. But the rewards can be great! At KJPS Schools, we have a history of musical excellence and we encourage our young people to practice teamwork and patience, while also experiencing the thrill of performing by taking part in the many extracurricular activities organised by the Music Department.

Opportunities are varied, seeing students perform and practice individually, as well as part of a vocal or instrumental ensemble. Alongside peripatetic music lessons, students will have the chance to join one of our orchestras. Choirs and bands also try to cover a variety of musical styles, from classical and jazz to modern pop, in order to cater for all tastes and interests.

Singing Lessons

We are fortunate to have a large team of visiting instrumental and singing teachers who deliver about many lessons each week. A selection of biographies illustrates the wide-ranging experience that the team brings to their teaching. One-to-one lessons take place during the school day on a rotating timetable.

Drama

Aiding students to communicate, articulate, and empathise, drama plays an important role at KJPS Schools. The number of students who participate in annual productions is high, and the whole school turns out to support performers on show nights.

Sports

Our high-quality teaching and coaching, along with excellent facilities, enable our young sportsmen and women to participate in teams and competitions at a very high level. Our students participate in local competitions, and they get the opportunity to develop and hone their skills alongside their peers. We currently have teams for football, basketball, athletics and table tennis.

Clubs And Spciety

There are a wide variety of clubs and societies at the KJPS, some are teacher-led but many are student-led.
The annual Clubs and Societies Fair in September launches the activities that there will be for the coming academic year.

Students lay out their stall in the Ruach Hakodesh Hall to recruit members and give a flavour of what will be on offer in terms of agendas and activities. As we have a split lunchtime our lunchtime clubs are split between Primary and Junior High School. This is an exciting development for us as it has given the younger students the opportunity to take a lead.

Whether the students find fulfilment and enjoyment in areas such drama, musical performance and sports, or in another field of endeavour – from chess, computing and politics to special creations – KJPS usually has a club or group that will cater for their needs. There’s something for everyone! And if, by chance, we don’t, we encourage students to take the initiative: we will try to support them in establishing something new with like-minded pupils.