Our Curriculum
“A small school with a big curriculum”
Ofsted 2017
Being a free school gives us greater flexibility over our curriculum; therefore our curriculum encompasses not only the formal requirements of the National Curriculum, but goes beyond the experiences of the classroom to ensure that our children are exposed to the richest and most varied opportunities that we can provide. Our curriculum is driven by the intention to prepare our children for lifelong learning. At St Mary’s, we offer a broad, balanced and vibrant curriculum which is ambitious for all learners. Through our curriculum, we develop the essential knowledge, skills and understanding that are the building blocks for later life.
“Pupils work hard, support one another and respond very well to the good-quality teaching provided. They are extremely responsive in class, play happily with others on the playground and, for most pupils, attendance is high.”
Ofsted 2017
Our intention is to enrich every child’s school experience by creating an environment where they are encouraged to succeed and be the best they can be. At St Mary’s, we prepare children with the essential knowledge and skills for their future. The exploration of new skills and experiences help to nurture resilience, curiosity and creativity. As a Church of England school, our curriculum is enhanced by our commitment to a Christian-based values education (encompassing British Values) rooted in Christ. Through this, we provide learning experiences that promote confident, self-motivated pupils, eager for lifelong learning. It is our intention to:
- Foster the children’s understanding of ‘living, learning and loving together’ and how they connect to the past, live in the present and look to the future, encouraging curiosity and a passion to learn.
- Promote a positive attitude towards learning, so that all children enjoy school and embrace new challenges and possibilities; pushing their own boundaries.
- Enable children to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills; being ‘determined to succeed’ and becoming independent thinkers and questioners; preparing them for the wider world beyond primary school.
- Promote Christian values so children take responsibility for themselves and their actions, are respectful and develop resilience.
- Fulfil all the requirements of the National Curriculum and the locally agreed syllabus for Religious Education.
