Whitehill Primary School & Nursery
Developing confidence, ambition and independence through the highest aspirations for all

Curriculum and Learning

                           Overall Curriculum Intent

HAPPY – We want our children to love their time at Whitehill Primary School, to discover the joy, rewards and empowerment that learning together brings.

HELPFUL –  We want our children to recognise the value in collaborating with others, that each and every one of them can make a contribution and has the ability to make a positive difference to the school, local and world communities.

HARDWORKING – We want our children to recognise that mistakes are a natural part of learning, to take risks, have the resilience and drive to aspire, overcome difficulties and successfully achieve now and way into the future.”

CONFIDENT – We want our children to see difference as a strength and integral part of one’s personality and have the belief that if you keep trying you will succeed.

INDEPENDENT – We want our children to recognise the value of independence and to have the skill sets and frame of mind to do things by themselves.

AMBITIOUS – We want to provide our children with experiences that broaden their awareness of the world around them and inspire them to have successful future lives.

Whitehill Primary School has a broad, balanced and inclusive curriculum that is coherently planned and sequenced to ensure progression of knowledge, skills and understanding across the school. Challenging, thought-provoking and engaging activities are facilitated by the teacher to stimulate the children and build on their prior knowledge. 

We believe that our children are entitled to an education that equips them with the knowledge, skills and values they need to embrace the opportunities and challenges they encounter; living and shaping a future that they want. Our curriculum is enriched by real-life, immersive and cultural experiences that build the character of each individual child. We make certain to reflect the vibrancy and diversity of our local community by providing our children with opportunities that they may otherwise not receive at home. 

Learning is further embedded and brought to life through the enrichment opportunities that have been thoughtfully incorporated within our curriculum plans. These enrichment opportunities enable the children to apply their learning holistically, in different social contexts and will help our students to understand the empowering nature of gaining knowledge and skills. Through such an approach, we committed to ensuring all children develop a love of learning.

We aim for our students to become independent, resilient and responsible citizens who can positively contribute to society. Our goal is clear: Through the high-quality teaching of our ambitious curriculum, every child at Whitehill can achieve their full potential and become well-rounded individuals who will thrive, be successful and truly prepared for the future world.

Inclusivity

We aim to offer an education that includes all students, and welcomes and supports them to learn, whoever they are and whatever their abilities or requirements. This means making sure that teaching and the curriculum, school buildings, classrooms, play areas, transport and toilets are appropriate for all children at all levels.

Inclusive education means all children learn together in the same school. No-one should be excluded. Every child has a right to inclusive education, including children with disabilities. The Six principles of nurture are entwined within all classroom practises and an ethos of care, nurture and support is promoted:

                             1. The children’s learning is understood developmentally

                             2. Every classroom offers a safe base

                             3. Nurture is pivotal in the development of self-esteem

                             4. Language is understood as a vital means of communication

                             5. All behaviour is communication

                             6. Transitions are significant in the lives of children

Such an approach will:

  •                    * Improve learning for all children – both those with and without disabilities. 
  •                    * Promote understanding, reduce prejudice and strengthen social integration. 
  •                    * Ensure that children with disabilities are equipped to work and contribute economically and socially to their communities.

Our vision for each subject area is personalised to ensure specificity.