Curriculum Overview

We are proud to offer a curriculum that reflects our Christian values and our commitment to nurturing each child’s unique talents and needs. Our curriculum is designed to provide a broad, balanced, and challenging education that prepares our children for life in all its fullness, in line with our school vision.

Our Curriculum Vision

At Radwinter CofE (VA) Primary School, our curriculum embodies our vision of “Growing and learning together to embrace life in all its fullness” (John 10:10). We believe that education is not just about academic achievement but about developing the whole child—academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. Our curriculum aims to:

Celebrate every child as a unique learner, ensuring they make exceptional progress from their individual starting points.
Provide memorable learning experiences that inspire awe and wonder, both inside and outside the classroom.
Embed our Christian values of fairness, forgiveness, kindness, respect, and service into daily learning and school life.
Promote inclusivity and respect for diversity, preparing our children to thrive in a multicultural and ever-changing society.
Support children’s wellbeing and happiness, recognising that these are fundamental to successful learning.

Curriculum Structure and Content

Our curriculum is carefully planned to meet the needs of our children in a rural village setting while preparing them for the wider world. It includes:

The National Curriculum: We fully embrace the statutory requirements, ensuring all children have access to a rich and rigorous education.
Broad and Balanced Learning: Alongside core subjects such as English, Maths, and Science, children engage with the Arts, Humanities, Physical Education, and Religious Education. This breadth nurtures curiosity and creativity.
Termly Thematic Topics: Our curriculum is organised into engaging termly topics that integrate subjects around exciting themes. These topics provide a coherent context for learning, helping children make meaningful connections across subjects.
Essential Experiences and Trips: We link termly topics to essential real-world experiences and educational visits that bring learning to life. For example, a topic on local history might include a visit to a nearby heritage site, while a science-focused term might involve hands-on workshops or nature walks. These experiences deepen understanding, enrich vocabulary, and build lasting memories.
Christian Distinctiveness: Daily collective worship, strong links with the local Church community, and spiritual development are woven throughout the curriculum.
Personal Development: Our curriculum promotes values education, social skills, and emotional intelligence, helping children to grow as confident and compassionate individuals.
Support for All Learners: We recognise the diverse needs of our children, including those with SEND and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our curriculum is inclusive, with tailored support to ensure no child feels excluded or marginalised.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Our EYFS curriculum is thoughtfully planned through half-termly topics that provide a clear structure while allowing space and time to follow each child’s interests. This flexible approach ensures that children remain engaged and motivated, fostering a love of learning from the very start of their school journey. Our well-planned EYFS curriculum develops the essential skills and knowledge children need to prepare confidently for further learning. Importantly, it is always tailored to reflect the unique needs and strengths of the current cohort, ensuring every child is supported to thrive.

How Our Vision and Values Shape Learning

Fairness and Respect: Children learn to appreciate differences through lessons and activities that celebrate cultural diversity and promote social justice.
Kindness and Forgiveness: These values are modelled by staff and encouraged through collaborative group work and community projects.
Service and Community: Pupils participate in local initiatives and school events that foster a sense of responsibility and belonging.
Wisdom and Hope: Our curriculum encourages critical thinking and resilience, equipping children to face future challenges with confidence.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

We understand that education extends beyond textbooks. Our children benefit from:

Educational visits and outdoor learning experiences that bring topics to life and deepen engagement with the curriculum.
Forest School activities that develop practical skills, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Opportunities to showcase their work and talents through assemblies, exhibitions, and performances.
Regular celebration of achievements, reinforcing positive attitudes towards learning and life.

Next Steps

We invite you to explore our curriculum in more detail through the subject-specific pages, where you will find information about what your child will learn at each stage of their journey with us. For any questions or to arrange a visit, please contact our school office.

Summary

At Radwinter CofE (VA) Primary School, our curriculum is a living embodiment of our Christian vision and values. It is designed to nurture each child’s potential, ensuring they flourish academically and personally within a caring and inclusive community. Together, we prepare our children not only for school success but for a life filled with purpose, kindness, and hope.

“I came that you may have life, and have it in all its fullness” (John 10:10) – this promise guides us in everything we do.