Curriculum Principles

The list below embellishes the building blocks illustrated on the image above

Our Curriculum:

• reflects a range of local, national, and global cultures, social groups and people to mirror and broaden children’s experiences and actively encourage anti-racism and discourage discrimination of any kind
• sets the UNICEF rights of the child at the heart of school life 
• is highly ambitious for, and instils intellectual curiosity within, all children - it encourages depth of thinking, elaboration, extension and connection 
• encourages children to struggle and think hard, make, celebrate and learn from mistakes, take risks and fulfil their potential
• is a source of subject, pedagogical, and pedagogical content knowledge development for staff 
• is coherently sequenced within and between year groups according to each subject’s rationale - it revisits and progressively adds to and extends children’s existing knowledge and skills and makes explicit, purposeful cross-curricular connections where appropriate
• considers the children’s context and circumstances and involves the whole community
• strives to close the vocabulary gap and for children who have learned to read, provides opportunities for children to read to learn 
• provides a rich range of relevant and authentic memorable learning opportunities both within the classroom and across the school’s expansive outdoor spaces, and, through the Ravenstone Entitlement, using educational visits and visitors/workshops in school 

• teaches children what it means to learn, think, read, write, and speak in much the same way that geographers, historians, scientists, (etc.) think about, critique, evaluate, and synthesise content and problems
• introduces children to significant (but not necessarily well-known) designers, artists, writers, mathematicians (etc.)
• prepares children for the next phase of their education and equips them with the relevant knowledge, skills, behaviours and cultural capital that they need to flourish/succeed in life
• builds upon Development Matters and the attainment targets set out in the Programmes of Study for each subject within the National Curriculum 

Art & Design

Exploring creativity and self expression through the visual arts - enabling children to develop their imagination, problem-solving skills, and appreciation for art and culture.

Computing

The study of computers and how they work - enabling children to develop essential skills for the 21st century, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

Design & Technology 

Combining creativity, practical skills, and problem-solving to design and make products - enabling children to think critically, work collaboratively, and apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.

English: Early Reading & Reading 

The study of the process of decoding written text and understanding its meaning - enabling children to develop critical thinking, imagination, and a love of learning.

English: Writing 

The study of effective communication through written language - enabling children to express their ideas clearly, creatively, and persuasively.

English: Spelling 

The study of the correct arrangement of letters to form words - enabling literacy development, academic achievement, and effective communication throughout life.

English: Grammar and Punctuation

The study of the rules and conventions that govern the structure and meaning of language - enabling children to express their ideas clearly and persuasively, both in their writing and in their speech.

English: Handwriting 

The study of writing letters and words by hand - enabling children to form letters correctly and legibly, and writing with fluency and speed.

English: Spoken Language 

The study of effective communication through speech - enabling children to develop strong communication skills, build relationships, and solve problems.

Forest School 

Offering pupils opportunities to achieve and develop confidence through hands-on learning outside.

Geography 

The study of the Earth and its people - enabling children to develop a sense of place, understand global issues, and appreciate the diversity of the world.

History 

The study of the past events, people, and societies - enabling children to think critically, ask questions, and make connections between the past and the present.

Languages 

Broadening horizons, expanding vocabulary, developing social and cultural awareness of the wider world.

Mathematics 

The study of numbers, shapes, patterns, and how they relate to the world around us - enabling children to think logically, solve problems, and make connections.

Music 

The study of sound, rhythm, and melody - enabling children to express emotions, appreciate beauty and develop a lifelong love of music.

Physical Education 

The study of physical activity, health and well-being - enabling children to develop a love of physical activity and establish lifelong healthy habits.

Personal, Social, Health & Economic 

The study of healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives - enabling children to make positive choices, develop empathy, and become responsible citizens.

Religious Education 

The study of world religious and non religious ways of life - enabling children to gain an understanding of the world, different cultures, and the values that shape human societies.

Science 

The study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and investigation - enabling children to explore the world around them, ask questions and develop a lifelong curiosity about how things work.