KRIII Curriculum Review Summary: Research-Informed Approaches And Changes - September 2022.pdf

Key highlights include:

Research-Informed Approaches:

English: Adopts Little Wandle phonics and early reading program based on its structured, repetition-focused design that caters to language acquisition.
Maths: Utilizes White Rose planning and participated in the NCETM's Mastering Number project.
Science: Employs PLAN for planning and TAPS for assessment using a focused, science-driven approach.
Art: Adopted AccessArt to enhance curriculum progression plans, ensuring high-quality learning.
Computing: Leans on TeachComputing and Barefoot Computing for a broad, rich, and spiraling curriculum.
PSHE: Implements the PSHE Association's Question-based model, fostering critical thinking and inquiry.
Oracy: Engaged with Voice 21 for development, focusing on a bespoke plan.

Curriculum Development Process:

The school embraces team collaboration in curriculum change, involving:

Staff Evaluation: Conducting thorough evaluations of potential programs (e.g., phonics, PSHE) through site visits, English hubs, and professional discussions before adoption.
Training & Preparation: Investing time in summer term training and resource preparation to ensure successful implementation.

Definition of Learning:

Learning is defined as a change to long-term memory coupled with active application. Each lesson revolves around answering a 'Big Question' for meaningful engagement and evaluation.

Addressing Barriers to Learning:

Language & Literacy: Overcoming language barriers by providing support for parents through workshops, particularly focused on phonics.
Cultural Capital: Encouraging parents to engage with local learning opportunities to build cultural capital for all students.

Long-Term Memory and Knowledge Retention:

Curriculum design emphasizes:

Meaningful Contexts: Presenting knowledge in relevant contexts to facilitate deeper understanding and long-term retention.
Practice & Retrieval: Providing ample opportunities for students to practice, embed, and retrieve knowledge throughout their time at the school.

Subject Key Concepts & Knowledge Organisers:

The curriculum is structured around key learning experiences and concepts, fostering a sense of identity as scientists, writers, geographers, etc.
Knowledge Organisers (KS1?): Used to outline essential knowledge for each lesson, providing clarity and focus.

Subject Expertise & CPD:

Subject Leader Vision: Every subject leader articulates their vision and priorities, ensuring a cohesive curriculum across all subjects.
Collaborative Support: Strong team links encourage teachers to support colleagues and share best practices.
Targeted CPD: Specific professional development opportunities are chosen based on identified needs for both teacher confidence and pedagogical improvement (e.g., Little Wandle training, Maths Number CPD, Science PLAN resources, TeachComputing resources).