Curriculum
The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum which prepares pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life. All our work is geared towards helping the children achieve the highest standards of which they are capable in all areas.
Early Years Foundation Stage
Children in Nursery and Reception learn through the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. This runs from birth to five years of age.
The Early Years Foundation Stage consists of seven areas of learning:
Communication and Language
Your children will learn to speak and listen in a range of situations. They will be engaged in activities which will broaden and enrich their language and vocabulary. They will develop confidence and skills in expressing themselves in a variety of different ways.
Physical Development
This develops children’s co-ordination, control and movement. It also involves learning about the importance of physical activity, and guides children on making healthy choices in relation to food.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
This involves children developing a positive sense of themselves and others; forming good relationships and respect for others; developing social skills and managing their feelings and behaviour; and developing confidence in their own abilities.
English
Children will learn to link sounds and letters and be encouraged to develop a love of books. They will begin to read and write.
Mathematics
Children will develop and improve their skills in counting, understanding and using numbers. They will begin to solve simple problems involving addition and subtraction. They will also learn to describe shapes, spaces and measures.
Understanding the World
This involves children making sense of their physical world and their community. They will have opportunities to explore, observe and find out about people, places, technology and the environment.
Expressive Arts and design
Children will explore and experiment with a wide range of materials and media. They will also be encouraged to share their thoughts, ideas and feelings through a range of activities in music, movement, dance, role-play, art, and design and technology.
Key Stage 1
Year 1 - English Curriculum
At Highbury, we use Rising Stars Reading Planet and Rocket Phonics as the basis for our reading and phonics delivery.
Reading – word reading |
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Reading – comprehension |
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Writing – transcription |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to: Spell
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Handwriting
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Writing – composition |
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Writing – vocabulary, grammar and punctuation |
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Year 2 - English Curriculum
At Highbury, we use Rising Stars Reading Planet and Rocket Phonics as the basis for our reading and phonics delivery.
Reading – word reading |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to:
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Reading – comprehension |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to:
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Writing – transcription |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to: Spell by:
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Handwriting
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Writing – composition |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to:
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Writing – vocabulary, grammar and punctuation |
Statutory requirements Pupils will be taught to:
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Year 1 Maths Curriculum
At Highbury, we use White Rose Maths as the basis for our curriculum delivery.
Working mathematically
By the end of year 1, children begin to solve simple problems involving addition and subtraction in familiar contexts such as going shopping, using a range of hands-on equipment, symbols, images and pictures. They begin to use what they know to tackle problems that are more complex and provide simple reasons for their opinions.
Number:
- Counting and understanding numbers
Children will identify and represent numbers using objects, pictures and models, such as the number line, and use ‘equal to, more than, less than (fewer), most and least.’ Children will accurately count numbers to, and across, 100 forwards and backwards from any given number with increasing understanding. They count, read, write and order numbers in numerals up to 100 and from 1 to 20 in words. When given a number, they can identify one more and one less. They can count in multiples of twos, fives and tens.
- Calculating
Children will understand known addition and subtraction facts within 20, including zero. They will demonstrate an understanding of multiplication and division through grouping and sharing using hands-on resources, pictorial representations and arrays (2, 5 and 10). They understand doubling and halving small quantities.
- Fractions
Through play and hands-on resources, children will find and name half and one quarter of objects, shapes and quantities.
Measurement
Children will begin to measure using non-standard units (finger widths, blocks etc.) moving to standard units of measure (e.g. cm) using tools such as a ruler, weighing scales and containers. They will begin to record and compare measurements such as lengths and heights, mass and weight, capacity and volume using language such as long / short; heavy / light; full / half-full / empty. They will tell the time to the hour, half past the hour and be able to sequence events in chronological order using precise language (for example, before and after, next, first, today etc.). Children will recognise and know the value of different denominations of coins and notes.
Geometry
Children will recognise and name common 2-D shapes, e.g. rectangles (including squares), circles and triangles, and 3-D shapes, e.g. cuboids (including cubes, pyramids and spheres) in different orientations and sizes. They will describe position, direction and movement, including whole, half and three quarter turns.
Statistics
In preparation for year 2, children will begin to compare, sort and classify information, including through cross curricular links e.g. science – sorting materials into groups according to their properties. They will also begin to construct simple pictograms and tables.
Year 2 Maths Curriculum
At Highbury, we use White Rose Maths as the basis for our curriculum delivery.
Working mathematically
By the end of year 2, children will solve problems with one or a small number of simple steps. Children will discuss their understanding and begin to explain their thinking using appropriate mathematical vocabulary, hands-on resources and different ways of recording. They will ask simple questions relevant to the problem and begin to suggest ways of solving them.
Number:
- Counting and understanding numbers
Children will develop their understanding of place value of numbers to at least 100 and apply this when ordering, comparing, estimating and rounding. Children begin to understand zero as a place holder as this is the foundation for manipulating larger numbers in subsequent years. Children will count fluently forwards and backwards up to and beyond 100 in multiples of 2, 3, 5 and 10 from any number. They will use hands-on resources to help them understand and apply their knowledge of place value in two digit numbers, representing the numbers in a variety of different ways.
- Calculating
Children learn that addition and multiplication number sentences can be re-ordered and the answer remains the same (commutativity) such as 9+5+1= 5+1+9. They learn that this is not the case with subtraction and division. They solve a variety of problems using mental and written calculations for +, -, x, ÷ in practical contexts. These methods will include partitioning which is where the number is broken up into more manageable parts (e.g. 64 = 60 + 4 or 50 + 14), re-ordering (e.g. moving the larger number to the beginning of the number sentence when adding several small numbers) and using a number line. Children will know the 2, 5 and 10 times tables, as well as the matching division facts (4 x 5 = 20, 20 ÷ 5 = 4) and can recall them quickly and accurately. They apply their knowledge of addition and subtraction facts to 20 and can use these to work out facts up to 100.
- Fractions including decimals
Throughout year 2, children will develop their understanding of fractions and the link to division. They explore this concept using pictures, images and hands-on resources. They will solve problems involving fractions (e.g. find 1/3 of the hexagon or ¼ of the marbles) and record what they have done. They will count regularly and fluently in fractions such as ½ and ¼ forwards and backwards and, through positioning them on a number line, understand that some have the same value (equivalent) e.g. ½ = ¼.
Measurement
Children will estimate, choose, use and compare a variety of measurements for length, mass, temperature, capacity, time and money. By the end of year 2, they will use measuring apparatus such as rulers accurately. They will use their knowledge of measurement to solve problems (e.g. how many ways to make 50p). They extend their understanding of time to tell and write it on an analogue clock to 5 minute intervals, including quarter past / to the hour. They will know key time related facts (minutes in an hour, hours in a day) and relate this to their everyday life.
Geometry
Children will identify, describe, compare and sort common 2-D and 3-D shapes according to their properties (sides, vertices, edges, faces) and apply this knowledge to solve simple problems. They develop their understanding by finding examples of 3-D shapes in the real world and exploring the 2-D shapes that can be found on them (e.g. a circle is one of the faces on a cylinder). Children begin to describe position, direction and movement in a range of different situations, including understanding rotation (turning through right angles clockwise and anti-clockwise). They use their knowledge of shape in patterns and sequences.
Statistics
Children sort and compare information, communicating findings by asking and answering questions. They will draw simple pictograms, tally charts and tables.
Year 1 Science Curriculum
Plants |
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Animals, including humans |
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Everyday materials |
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Seasonal changes |
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Year 2 Science Curriculum
Living things and their habitats |
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Plants |
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Animals, including humans |
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Uses of everyday materials |
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Art Curriculum Key Stage 1
Pupils will be taught:
- to use a range of materials creatively to design and make products
- to use drawing, painting and sculpture to develop and share their ideas, experiences and imagination
- to develop a wide range of art and design techniques in using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space
- about the work of a range of artists, craft makers and designers, describing the differences and similarities between different practices and disciplines, and making links to their own work.
Computing Curriculum Key Stage 1
Pupils will be taught to:
- understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions
- create and debug simple programs
- use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs
- use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content
- recognise common uses of information technology beyond school
use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies
Design Technology Curriculum Key Stage 1
Through a variety of creative and practical activities, pupils should be taught the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an iterative process of designing and making. They should work in a range of relevant contexts [for example, the home and school, gardens and playgrounds, the local community, industry and the wider environment].
When designing and making, pupils will be taught to: Design
- design purposeful, functional, appealing products for themselves and other users based on design criteria
- generate, develop, model and communicate their ideas through talking, drawing, templates, mock-ups and, where appropriate, information and communication technology
Make
- select from and use a range of tools and equipment to perform practical tasks [for example, cutting, shaping, joining and finishing]
- select from and use a wide range of materials and components, including construction materials, textiles and ingredients, according to their characteristics
Evaluate
- explore and evaluate a range of existing products
- evaluate their ideas and products against design criteria
Technical knowledge
- build structures, exploring how they can be made stronger, stiffer and more stable
- explore and use mechanisms [for example, levers, sliders, wheels and axles], in their products.
Cooking and nutrition
As part of their work with food, pupils will be taught how to cook and apply the principles of nutrition and healthy eating. Instilling a love of cooking in pupils will also open a door to one of the great expressions of human creativity. Learning how to cook is a crucial life skill that enables pupils to feed themselves and others affordably and well, now and in later life.
Pupils will be taught to:
- use the basic principles of a healthy and varied diet to prepare dishes
- understand where food comes from.
Geography Curriculum Key Stage 1
Pupils will develop knowledge about the world, the United Kingdom and their locality. They should understand basic subject-specific vocabulary relating to human and physical geography and begin to use geographical skills, including first-hand observation, to enhance their locational awareness.
Pupils will be taught to:
Locational knowledge
- name and locate the world’s seven continents and five oceans
- name, locate and identify characteristics of the four countries and capital cities of the United Kingdom and its surrounding seas
Place knowledge
- understand geographical similarities and differences through studying the human and physical geography of a small area of the United Kingdom, and of a small area in a contrasting non-European country
Human and physical geography
- identify seasonal and daily weather patterns in the United Kingdom and the location of hot and cold areas of the world in relation to the Equator and the North and South Poles
- use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to:
- key physical features, including: beach, cliff, coast, forest, hill, mountain, sea, ocean, river, soil, valley, vegetation, season and weather
- key human features, including: city, town, village, factory, farm, house, office, port, harbour and shop
Geographical skills and fieldwork
- use world maps, atlases and globes to identify the United Kingdom and its countries, as well as the countries, continents and oceans studied at this key stage
- use simple compass directions (North, South, East and West) and locational and directional language [for example, near and far; left and right], to describe the location of features and routes on a map
- use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features; devise a simple map; and use and construct basic symbols in a key
- use simple fieldwork and observational skills to study the geography of their school and its grounds and the key human and physical features of its surrounding environment.
History Curriculum Key Stage 1
Pupils will develop an awareness of the past, using common words and phrases relating to the passing of time. They should know where the people and events they study fit within a chronological framework and identify similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods. They should use a wide vocabulary of everyday historical terms. They should ask and answer questions, choosing and using parts of stories and other sources to show that they know and understand key features of events. They should understand some of the ways in which we find out about the past and identify different ways in which it is represented.
In planning to ensure the progression described above through teaching about the people, events and changes outlined below, teachers are often introducing pupils to historical periods that they will study more fully at key stages 2 and 3.
Pupils will be taught about:
- changes within living memory. Where appropriate, these should be used to reveal aspects of change in national life
- events beyond living memory that are significant nationally or globally [for example, the Great Fire of London, the first aeroplane flight or events commemorated through festivals or anniversaries]
- the lives of significant individuals in the past who have contributed to national and international achievements. Some should be used to compare aspects of life in different periods [for example, Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria, Christopher Columbus and Neil Armstrong, William Caxton and Tim Berners-Lee, Pieter Bruegel the Elder and LS Lowry, Rosa Parks and Emily Davison, Mary Seacole and/or Florence Nightingale and Edith Cavell]
- significant historical events, people and places in their own locality.
Music Curriculum Key Stage 1
At Highbury, we use Music Express as the basis of our curriculum delivery
Pupils wil be taught to:
- use their voices expressively and creatively by singing songs and speaking chants and rhymes
- play tuned and untuned instruments musically
- listen with concentration and understanding to a range of high-quality live and recorded music
- experiment with, create, select and combine sounds using the inter-related dimensions of music.
PE Curriculum Key Stage 1
At Highbury, we use GetSet4PE as the basis of our curriculum delivery.
Pupils will develop fundamental movement skills, become increasingly competent and confident and access a broad range of opportunities to extend their agility, balance and coordination, individually and with others. They should be able to engage in competitive (both against self and against others) and co-operative physical activities, in a range of increasingly challenging situations.
Pupils will be taught to:
- master basic movements including running, jumping, throwing and catching, as well as developing balance, agility and co-ordination, and begin to apply these in a range of activities
- participate in team games, developing simple tactics for attacking and defending
- perform dances using simple movement patterns.
Religious Education
This school is non-denominational and our teaching of religious education is based on the local education authority Agreed Syllabus. RE is concerned about learning about religions and learning from religion and it is not the practice of this school to preach to or convert the children. The faith background of both the staff and the child's family is respected at all times. Care, respect and wonder form the basis of our school life together. Aspects of RE thus permeate all areas of our school life.
We believe that collective worship both supports and strengthens what we aim to do in every aspect of school life. Our caring ethos, and the value that we place on the development of the whole child; spiritually, morally, socially, culturally and intellectually is reflected in our worship. We value this special time in the school day for the space it gives children to develop a reflective approach to life and the ability to express their reflections in traditionally religious ways or any other appropriate manner .In this school we combine our acts of worship with assembly.
Parents are entitled to withdraw their children from religious education, and/or collective worship and any parents wishing to do so should consult the Head.
PSHE
At Highbury, we use Jigsaw as the basis for our curriculum delivery.
Personal, social and health education and citizenship enable children to become healthy, independent and responsible members of society. We encourage pupils to play a positive role in contributing to the life of the school and the wider community. In so doing, we help develop their sense of self worth. We teach them how society is organised and governed. We teach them about rights and responsibilities. They learn to appreciate what it means to be a positive member of a diverse multicultural society.
Extra curriculum
At Highbury we run a variety of extra Curricular clubs. Newsletters will inform you of what is currently on offer. They are mainly for years 1 and 2 and may include,
- French
- Football
- Art
- Drama
- Multi-Sports
- Yoga
Teachers will send home half-termly class newsletters with more details of curriculum aspects that are being followed.
If you require more details about the school's curriculum, please contact the office.
British Values
Click here to download information on how we promote British Values.