To ensure there is progression whilst exploring the same topic, we have set out the specific set of skills and knowledge which should be taught in each subject over the 7 years at primary school. These skill and knowledge progressions are used when planning each topic to break down the learning for each subject, within each year group, into smaller stepping stones. They give teachers a step-by-step guide for the order in which the content of a subject should be taught. This ensures that children develop the specific skills needed, in a logical order, to achieve the overall goal. It also ensures that, as units are revisited each year, the specific skills and knowledge focused upon are a clear development of the children's prior learning. 

Research has shown that when learning can be related to real life, it gives it meaning and purpose, and therefore it is remembered. As a result, we fill our curriculum with real experiences, including visitors, theme days, workshops, trips and use of the local area. We also plan a stunning start, marvellous middle and fantastic finish within our topics. These are designed to hook children into the topic, to reignite interest part way through and to celebrate learning.  

Our curriculum is inclusive and we ensure that it is accessible for those with disabilities or special educational needs.  For more information on how we do this please follow this link.

Mathematics

At St James' we follow the White Rose scheme (version 3.0) for our Maths teaching.  Below is the National Curriculum and 'Ready to Progress' mapping from White Rose, identifying NC statements and where this is found in the White Rose planning. This is aligned with the 3.0 version of the scheme and is in the process of being updated for Spring and Summer. 

English

At St James' we utilise the Power of Reading and Jane Considine planning to allow for the use of high quality texts. These are taught alongside the use of our own Progression of Skills in both Reading and Writing. Please see the 'Phonics teaching' section of the website for more information about how we use the Little Wandle scheme to teach phonics.

Wider Curriculum Skills Progression Documents

Wider Curriculum Learning Steps

These are examples of how our Learning Pathways break down the skills and knowledge progression into clearly sequenced learning steps.

Topic Knowledge Organisers

These identify the key knowledge and vocabulary children will learn through each of their current topics.