The Curriculum at Cholsey School

At the heart of our school curriculum is our vision and values.

School staff ensure that the school’s four core principles of Curiosity, Aspiration, Respect and Enthusiasm are reflected in all aspects of learning. We want our children to be excited and enthused about their lessons and to engage fully by having a say in what they are learning about. We know that when children are curious, they are far more likely to stay engaged and remember what they have learnt. Teachers facilitate this in the classroom through discussion, investigative lessons and questioning. We want to inspire our children to be their very best and seek to provide opportunities for them to develop skills and knowledge across the curriculum that will provide them with lifelong interests and aspirations. Respectful classroom environments ensure that all children’s voices are heard and contribute fully. Older children support their younger peers in many areas of the curriculum through buddying up and we take pride in our learning which is celebrated across the school community through newsletter, blogs and open classrooms.

We have a collaborative approach to learning that involves whole school umbrella topics. At the start of each topic we aim to have a launch event of some kind to generate interest and spark curiosity. This might be a visitor, trip or even an unusual object! The umbrella topics will be covered in different ways across the main school phases following a 2 year cycle. For example, our topic  Our Wonderful World is focused on the local environment in KS1, rivers and oceans in lower KS2 and rainforests and natural disasters in upper KS2. The children are asked what questions they have about these topics and learning is tailored to this where possible.

At the end of each big topic, we aim to have a celebration event where learning across the school is celebrated and parents and carers are invited to come in and see what we have achieved.

Progress in learning is carefully monitored and staff work hard to address misconceptions and gaps in knowledge. All teaching staff lead the learning in a particular subject area which ensures that whole school support and development of the curriculum takes place, often in the form of coaching, training, planning support or resource development.

Please visit our subject specific pages to find out more about what we offer in each subject area.