Key Stage 3 Curriculum Intent

Vision Statement

At Harris Church of England Academy, our curriculum is designed to embody our vision: "Whilst we have time let us do good to all." We aim to provide a holistic educational experience that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, and social development of every pupil, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future.

Curriculum Aims

1. Knowledge Acquisition:

   • Ensure pupils acquire a deep understanding of essential concepts and knowledge across all subjects, enabling them to build a strong foundation for future learning.

2. Skill Development:

   • Foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills through engaging and diverse learning experiences.

3. Personal Growth:

   • Promote the development of personal values, resilience, and a sense of responsibility towards themselves and their community.

4. Cultural Appreciation:

   • Provide opportunities for pupils to explore and appreciate diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives, fostering a sense of belonging and respect for others.
      

Curriculum Structure

1. Coherent Curriculum Design:

   • The curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that knowledge and skills are built progressively. Each subject area is designed to interlink with others, allowing pupils to make connections and deepen their understanding.

2. Realistic Learning Outcomes:

   • Curriculum content is tailored to what pupils can realistically learn within the allocated time. We focus on depth rather than breadth, ensuring that pupils engage meaningfully with each topic.

3. Regular Review and Reinforcement:

   • Pupils will have regular opportunities to revisit and consolidate their learning. This includes spaced practise and retrieval activities that reinforce key concepts and skills.

4. Assessment and Feedback:

   • Continuous assessment will inform teaching practises and provide pupils with constructive feedback. This will guide their learning journey and help them understand their progress.
      

Inclusivity and Support

• Differentiation:

  • The curriculum will be inclusive and accessible to all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Tailored support will be provided to ensure every pupil can thrive.
     

• Collaboration:

  • Encourage collaboration among teachers to share best practises and address common misconceptions, ensuring a unified approach to curriculum delivery.

Conclusion

Our Key Stage 3 Curriculum Intent is designed to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment where every pupil can flourish. By focusing on knowledge, skills, personal growth, and cultural appreciation, we aim to prepare our pupils not only for academic success but also for their roles as responsible and engaged members of society.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum Intent

Vision Statement

At Harris Church of England Academy, our Key Stage 4 curriculum is designed to uphold our vision: "Whilst we have time let us do good to all." We are committed to providing a comprehensive educational experience that prepares our pupils for future academic and career opportunities while fostering a sense of responsibility and community.

Curriculum Aims

1. Ambitious Academic Standards:

   • Ensure that all pupils are provided with a rigorous and ambitious curriculum that meets the expectations of the EBacc, preparing them for further education and future employment.

2. Holistic Development:

   • Promote the personal, social, and emotional development of pupils through a balanced curriculum that includes academic, vocational, and extracurricular opportunities.

3. Inclusivity:

   • Cater to the diverse needs of all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds (33% FSM) and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), ensuring equitable access to the curriculum.

4. Cultural Capital:

   • Equip pupils with the knowledge and cultural capital necessary to succeed in life, fostering a sense of global citizenship and appreciation for diverse perspectives.
      

Curriculum Structure

1. EBacc Focus:

   • The curriculum is designed around the EBacc framework, which includes English, Mathematics, Science, a Modern Foreign Language, and either History or Geography. This structure ensures that pupils develop a broad range of knowledge and skills that are essential for academic success.

2. Two-Year Key Stage 4:

   • Our Key Stage 4 is structured over two years, building on the learning developed at key stage 3 and allowing for an in-depth exploration of subjects. This approach enables pupils to engage deeply with the content, facilitating a thorough understanding and mastery of key concepts.

3. Core and Optional Subjects:

   • Pupils will study a combination of core subjects (English, mathematics, science, and RS) alongside their choice of three optional subjects, ensuring a well-rounded education that aligns with their interests and future aspirations.

4. Assessment and Feedback:

   • Regular assessments are integrated into the curriculum to monitor pupil progress and inform teaching strategies. Constructive feedback is provided to guide pupils in their learning journey and help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
      

Inclusivity and Support

1. Differentiated Learning:

   • The curriculum will be tailored to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, ensuring that each pupil can access the curriculum and achieve their potential.

2. Support Systems:

   • Implement robust support systems, including mentoring and tutoring, to assist pupils who may be struggling and to ensure that all pupils, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have the opportunity to succeed.
      

Conclusion

Our Key Stage 4 Curriculum Intent is designed to provide an ambitious and inclusive educational experience that prepares pupils for their future. By focusing on the EBacc and structuring the curriculum over two years, we aim to equip our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and cultural capital necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.