Curriculum Overview

Rationale

Our expectation is that all pupils are provided with high quality learning experiences that lead to consistently high levels of pupil achievement.  This policy outlines the elements of daily practice which are key to raising and maintaining standards in teaching and learning.  Our approach to implementing the curriculum is underpinned by the cognitive science of how children learn and evidence-based research.  It applies the findings of cognitive science to daily classroom practice.  Learning occurs when experiences, facts, and skills are permanently stored in long-term memory and can be recalled or used in the future. ‘Making learning stick’ is our aim at Simonside.  

Aims of the Curriculum 

• Provide a broad and balanced education for all pupils
• Enable pupils to develop knowledge, understand concepts and acquire skills, and be able to choose and apply these in relevant situations
• Support pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development
• Support pupils’ physical development and responsibility for their own health, and enable them to be active
• Promote a positive attitude towards learning
• Ensure equal access to learning, with high expectations for every pupil and appropriate levels of challenge and support
• Promote the learning and development of our youngest children and ensure they are ready for Key Stage 1
• Prepare KS2 children for transition into KS3
• Provide pupils with the knowledge and understanding needed to maintain emotional well being and good mental health
• Ensure pupils know how to stay safe
• Ensure that pupils know their Rights and British Values and can use these to live their lives as responsible people