‘Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn’
 Benjamin Franklin

 

INTENT

The purpose of our curriculum is to provide a comprehensive and inclusive educational framework that meets the diverse needs of all our learners while fostering a passion for lifelong learning. We have carefully designed our curriculum to create memorable learning experiences that promote a rich and varied offer, encompassing critical subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as science, design technology, drama, dance, music, and art. Additionally, we emphasise outdoor learning as a vital component of our educational approach. Our curriculum is structured to develop a clear progression of skills and knowledge over time, ensuring that each child can build upon their learning experiences effectively. Ultimately, our aim is to nurture truly great children who are well-rounded, resilient, and prepared for the challenges of the future.

Our Core Values provide the platform on which we have built our curriculum offer at Barnburgh Primary Academy. Our science curriculum is underpinned by our Core Values in the following ways;

COURAGE
We teach children to have courage through our curriculum by providing opportunities for them to engage in challenging and risk-taking tasks. These allow all children to express their ideas and take ownership of their learning. We allow children to learn from the experiences of individuals who have overcome adversity (for example Ben Parkinson). Celebrating acts of bravery within the classroom fosters a supportive environment where children feel empowered to face challenges. Ultimately, we aim to instil a mindset that values resilience and determination in their academic and personal growth.

PERSEVERANCE
We teach children to show perseverance through our curriculum by encouraging them to tackle complex problems to foster a growth mindset. By setting goals within their learning, children learn the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles. Collaborative group work and peer feedback reinforces the value of teamwork and resilience. We also include stories of determination in our class novel sessions, helping children connect with characters who exemplify perseverance. Ultimately, we aim to create a culture where persistence is celebrated and recognised as a key component of success.

AMBITION
We teach children to show ambition through our curriculum by setting high expectations and encouraging them to strive for personal excellence in their academic pursuits. We provide a variety of enrichment opportunities, such as leadership roles, to inspire children to pursue their interests and passions. We celebrate achievements and milestones, reinforcing the importance of aiming high and recognising hard work. Ultimately, our curriculum fosters a culture of ambition where children are motivated to reach their full potential and aspire to make a positive impact on the world.

RESPECT
We teach children respect through our curriculum by fostering an inclusive environment where diversity and individuality are celebrated. Through discussions and activities centred around empathy and understanding, children learn to appreciate different perspectives and cultures. We incorporate lessons on teamwork and collaboration, emphasising the importance of valuing others’ contributions and opinions. Additionally, we model respectful behaviour amongst staff and children, creating a culture of mutual respect throughout the school community. Ultimately, our curriculum aims to instil a sense of responsibility towards others, encouraging children to treat everyone with kindness and dignity.

INDEPENDENCE
We teach children independence through our curriculum by providing them with opportunities to make choices and take ownership of their learning. By incorporating problem-solving tasks, children develop critical thinking skills and the confidence to tackle challenges independently. Additionally, we promote collaboration while nurturing individual strengths, guiding them to work both autonomously and as part of a team. Ultimately, our approach aims to empower children to become self-reliant learners who are prepared for future challenges.

 

 

IMPLEMENTATION

We deliver our curriculum through a structured approach that begins with long-term planning, drawing from our progression documents. These documents provide a comprehensive overview of the entire school's curriculum across the academic year, ensuring that there are no gaps in learning and that all essential topics are covered systematically. Following this, we create medium-term planning, during which teachers actively seek out opportunities to enrich the curriculum through engaging activities, such as inviting guest speakers, organising school trips, and implementing hands-on projects.

To maximise resources and ensure an efficient learning environment, we carefully timetable when subjects will be taught, avoiding any scheduling conflicts. Our curriculum is further enhanced by a variety of enrichment opportunities, including charity days, community events, and special celebrations, which are strategically planned to create meaningful connections to the learning objectives. By linking these events to academic content, we provide students with deeper and more enriching educational experiences that foster their personal and social development.

 

IMPACT

The impact of our curriculum offer is significant, as it creates well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the complexities of modern life. By integrating essential subjects, core values, and enrichment opportunities, our children develop critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and social skills that empower them to navigate challenges effectively. Furthermore, curriculum fosters a love for learning, encourages active participation in community and global issues, and promotes responsible citizenship, ultimately shaping confident, empathetic, and ambitious individuals ready to contribute positively to society.