October 25th 2024Curriculum
We have carefully selected and designed programmes of study that work for the children in our school. Our teachers work from ambitious curriculum overviews that teach the width and breadth of the National Curriculum and beyond. Our curriculum choices enable every child to be prepared for the next step in their education.
Core Curriculum
Early Reading and Early Mathematics are the foundations for our curriculum. We know that being able to read and problem solve will enable our children to unlock the world of learning.
We want our pupils to love reading and explore the rich world of literacy from the earliest days. Read, Write Inc enables us to do this.
At Windmill Primary, we want all our pupils to leave the school as confident and resilient mathematicians. We follow the GLF maths curriculum to give our pupils the best chance at achieving mastery in number by the end of their time at the school. Teaching maths for mastery ensures all pupils can access and be successful across the full maths curriculum. This inclusive approach, and its emphasis on promoting multiple methods of solving problems, builds self-confidence and resilience in pupils.
Vocabulary and good oracy is also at the heart of our curriculum. Children are taught the etymology of words so they develop a greater knowledge of lesson content. Our subjects are also taught as discrete parts of the curriculum so children understand what the different disciplines of each area are. They become historians, scientists and artists through carefully sequenced and planned lessons. These build on previous learning, and retrieval and application of knowledge and skills is at the core of learning.
Wider Curriculum
Our interdisciplinary curriculum is unapologetically ambitious, designed to progressively develop essential skills and encourages children to make links across learning. We place a special emphasis on oracy, fostering strong communication through partner talk and deliberate vocabulary teaching. By doing so, we equip our students with the linguistic competence and confidence necessary to engage with and excel in a diverse range of subjects. Our ultimate goal is to empower children to leave our school with the skills, knowledge, and intellectual curiosity required to access and thrive in the next stage of their educational journey, embracing a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Personal Development
Windmill Primary School will provide opportunities for every child to feel part of and be able to contribute to the school and local and global community, with all members of Windmill embracing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Children will know their rights and know they have a voice, which can make a difference.
It will allow every child to develop fully as an individual, academically and beyond. Throughout their time at Windmill, they will also develop the skills to access all aspects of the curriculum. Subjects will be taught to allow children to become historians, scientists, artists and more. Children will be motivated, inspired and independent children who have a love of learning and are curious to know more!
Our school will provide a nurturing environment where children can develop respect for themselves, others and their surroundings. They will be surrounded by skilled adults who allow each child to thrive so they are equipped to meet the changes and challenges in the life ahead. All children will have access to excellent teaching and learning but we will also ensure that the whole child is developed by having access to trips, visits and experiences, which enrich their lives.
Windmill Primary School aims to develop learners who can thrive in the 21st century. We use pedagogies of deep learning and mastery to engage, challenge and inspire pupils. At the heart of our pedagogy, we recognise the intrinsic link between deep learning, relationships and wellbeing.
