Curriculum Intent

Our curriculum intends to provide our children with the roots of their education.  It can be broken down into five clear strands for development which intertwine to produce a holistic approach to learning, and from which our children are supported and able to grow.

Learning to be a learner

The meta-cognitive strategies embedded in our curriculum support children in becoming reflective and self-aware learners. Children observe precisely the processes used to plan and assess  understanding and performance, and through this develop a deeper understanding of what a learner is. They maximise learning through regular reflection on their own learning abilities and reviewing the knowledge they have acquired. Mistakes are celebrated and used as a guided to the next steps in their learning.. Children flourish through engaging with this process, finding success in everything they do. Through the use of success criteria, children are aware of what they will be taught and learn to self-assess at regular intervals.

Exploring morals and values

At St Mary’s, the development of children’s morals and values is key to our Christian ethos and vision as a school.  We want children to flourish as individuals, equally as part of the school family and part of the community.  Weaved into and through everything is our Christian ethos and our values.  Exploring these values and how we can make them part of our everyday lives, is integral across the curriculum and the whole school in events such as collective worship and what we do for charities.  Children are recognised for their achievements in these areas by their peers, their teachers and members of the community.  

Connecting with our community

Making children feel connected to their community is at the heart of our vision.  Our school is closely connect to our church and we make regular visits to be part of the church community.  The link connects our parents and provides support in times of need. By utilising technology, we support our parents to ensure that they are informed and prepared for their childs' learning journey.  The children actively participate in community events and attend Summer and Winter fairs.  Through our curriculum we debate and discuss the local and global community.

Emotional wellbeing

Positive mental wellbeing is key to high attaining, happy children. At St Mary’s our approach to promoting, developing and maintaining good wellbeing is inclusive, with every child benefiting from our whole-school systems. Children’s work is adapted to suit their needs, and altered where required to allow them to learn in an environment and using an approach to recording which supports their emotional wellbeing and help them feel success.

Curiosity

The leaders of tomorrow sit in the walls of St Mary's.  Through a broad and rich curriculum we aim to develop and foster a curious mindset.  Through the use of  big questions across the curriculum, children discuss and debate a variety of important concepts, ideas and thought- provoking talking points. Children understand the importance of a wider perspective, opinion, research and listening when discussing different ideas and they . develop skills in sharing opinions, listening to  others and acceptance of the inconclusive.  These skills are transferable across the curriculum where children listen and question, and engage in collaborative learning.