Teaching and Learning at The Willows

At The Willows, we want every child to enjoy a happy, ambitious and memorable primary-school experience. Our curriculum is carefully designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence and give pupils the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to thrive—both now and in the future.

Curriculum Aims

Through our curriculum, we aim to help pupils to:

• keep themselves safe and recognise how to respond to unsafe situations;
• become confident readers, writers and mathematicians;
• communicate clearly, listen attentively and use language appropriately;
• use technology creatively, responsibly and safely;
• develop their understanding of science, the environment, geography, history, culture and the wider world;
• respect and celebrate different people, cultures, faiths and beliefs;
• build positive friendships and become caring, empathetic and self-aware individuals;
• develop emotional resilience, self-discipline and the ability to resolve difficulties calmly;
• become effective problem-solvers, researchers and organisers;
• work successfully both independently and as part of a team;
• become honest, responsible and socially conscious citizens with aspirations for their futures;
• develop healthy, active lifestyles that support physical and mental wellbeing;
• grow in confidence, resilience and a willingness to take thoughtful risks;
• understand and live out our school values and the British Values.

Our Curriculum Intent

Our curriculum gives children the opportunity to gain a love of learning and a zest for life. It is broad, balanced, inclusive and ambitious for every pupil. As well as preparing children for the next stage of their education, it equips them with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need for life beyond school.

We recognise that children arrive at school with different experiences, strengths and needs. Our role is to identify what each child does well, build on their interests and talents, and provide the support and challenge they need to succeed. We have high expectations for all pupils and ensure our curriculum is accessible in line with the Equality Act 2010 and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014.

Learning at The Willows is enriched by meaningful, real-life experiences which broaden children’s horizons. Through enquiry, exploration and carefully chosen curriculum content, pupils develop a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it. They learn about a rich range of cultural and spiritual traditions, while developing pride in their own identity and an appreciation of British culture.

Our curriculum is aligned with the National Curriculum and is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively across each subject. Alongside strong core learning, pupils benefit from creative, practical and enriching opportunities that make learning memorable and meaningful.

Our year is enhanced by special events and experiences, including Science Week, Diwali, Cultural Day, World Health Day and E-Safety Day. These opportunities help children connect their classroom learning with the wider world.

Curriculum Implementation

Teaching at The Willows is underpinned by Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction. Lessons are carefully structured so that pupils can build knowledge securely, practise new skills and become increasingly independent learners. Teachers use clear explanations, modelling, guided practice and regular review, including the familiar “I do, we do, you do” approach.

Early reading and phonics are taught systematically through Phonics International. Pupils benefit from dedicated literacy teaching, high-quality texts and carefully planned opportunities to develop reading, writing, speaking and listening. Our PM reading programme supports teachers to monitor and develop each pupil’s fluency and comprehension.

Mathematics is taught through the White Rose Maths programme, using the concrete, pictorial and abstract approach. Consistent modelling and visual representations help pupils to understand mathematical concepts deeply and apply their learning with confidence.

Science, History and Geography are taught using Developing Experts. This supports high-quality, enquiry-based learning and helps pupils build knowledge progressively over time. Learning is adapted to reflect the diversity, experiences and needs of our pupils, while maintaining high expectations for all.

Our wider curriculum is designed specifically for The Willows and is carefully aligned with the National Curriculum. We have developed bespoke curriculums for Art and Design and Design Technology, enabling pupils to develop their creativity, practical skills and understanding of design through meaningful links with other areas of learning.

Specialist teachers, visiting professionals and outside agencies further enrich provision, helping to ensure that every child receives an excellent education tailored to their individual needs. Each subject has a clear curriculum intent and annual action plan, linked directly to the school development plan.

Curriculum Impact

We continually evaluate the impact of our curriculum to ensure it meets the needs of our pupils and supports strong progress. We do this through a range of evidence, including:

• pupil voice;
• assessment and attainment information;
• curriculum planning;
• work in books and displays;
• lesson visits and learning walks;
• discussions with staff, pupils and parents.

Pupils, parents and staff are regularly invited to share their views. This helps us to refine and strengthen our curriculum over time.

Our aim is for pupils to leave The Willows as well-rounded, resilient and capable young people. They will know their strengths, recognise their talents and have the knowledge, skills and confidence to meet future challenges and succeed in secondary education and beyond.

If you would like further information on the delivery of the curriculum at The Willows, please contact the school office.