Curriculum Intent
At Yattendon School, our curriculum is designed to enable every child to Inspire, Persevere and Achieve. Rooted in our Shared Vision, we are committed to developing the knowledge, skills and character needed for children to become confident, resilient and successful learners who are well-prepared for the next stage of their education and for life in modern Britain.
We believe that all children deserve access to a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum that develops strong foundations in reading, writing, mathematics, science and computing, whilst also providing rich and meaningful learning experiences across the wider curriculum. Through carefully planned learning opportunities, we aim to foster curiosity, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.
Our curriculum is underpinned by Yattendon's core values of Appreciation, Kindness, Courage, Honesty, Responsibility and Co-operation. These values are woven throughout school life and support children in developing positive relationships, respect for others and a strong sense of moral and social responsibility.
We are committed to developing the whole child. Alongside academic success, we nurture children's confidence, independence and resilience through our Learning Powers of Concentrating, Sharing Ideas, Problem Solving and Reflecting. These learning behaviours help pupils become adaptable, reflective and motivated learners who embrace challenge and recognise that effort and perseverance are key to success.
Central to our curriculum is the Y Factor: the belief that success is achieved through perseverance, determination, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning. We want children to understand that mistakes are opportunities to learn, setbacks are part of the journey and that hard work, courage and commitment enable them to achieve their goals.
Through our curriculum, we aim to ensure that every child leaves Yattendon with the knowledge, skills, values and aspirations needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Curriculum Implementation
At Yattendon School, the curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that knowledge and skills build progressively over time. Learning is designed to help pupils make meaningful connections across subjects, deepen their understanding and retain key knowledge in their long-term memory.
Teaching and learning are informed by the Greensand Learning Trust PACE Principles, which underpin effective classroom practice across the school.
Participation
We create classrooms where all pupils are actively engaged in learning. Children are encouraged to contribute ideas, ask questions, discuss their thinking and take an active role in their learning journey.
Adaptation
Learning is carefully adapted to meet the needs of all learners. Teachers use assessment information to provide appropriate support and challenge, ensuring all pupils can access the curriculum and achieve success.
Challenge
High expectations are central to our approach. Pupils are encouraged to think deeply, solve problems, take risks in their learning and demonstrate resilience when faced with challenge.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in all aspects of school life. Children are supported to take pride in their work, reflect on their progress and continually seek improvement.
Our curriculum is delivered through high-quality teaching, carefully chosen resources and rich learning experiences, including educational visits, visitors, outdoor learning opportunities, performances, sporting events and cross-curricular projects. These experiences help bring learning to life, provide real-world relevanceand inspire children to develop their interests and talents.
Teachers use effective questioning, retrieval practice, modelling and feedback to support learning and ensure that key knowledge and concepts are remembered over time. Assessment is integrated throughout the curriculum to identify strengths, address misconceptions and inform future learning.
The principles of the Y Factor are embedded in everyday classroom practice. Children are encouraged to persevere when learning becomes challenging, demonstrate determination when developing new skills and view mistakes as valuable opportunities for growth. Through carefully structured challenge and supportive feedback, pupils learn that effort and resilience are powerful drivers of success.
Across all subjects, pupils are encouraged to demonstrate Yattendon's Learning Powers and values, enabling them to become increasingly independent, collaborative and reflective learners.
Curriculum Impact
The impact of Yattendon's curriculum is seen in pupils who are knowledgeable, enthusiastic and confident learners. Children make strong progress from their starting points and develop a secure understanding of the knowledge and skills outlined within the National Curriculum and beyond.
Our pupils demonstrate:
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Strong basic skills that support success across the curriculum.
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Confidence in applying their knowledge in a range of contexts.
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Resilience and perseverance when faced with challenges.
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Curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
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Respect for others and an appreciation of diversity.
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The ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively.
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Independence, responsibility and reflective thinking.
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Positive attitudes towards learning and personal achievement.
Children leave Yattendon School as well-rounded individuals who embody the school's values and vision. They understand that success is not simply about attainment, but about developing the confidence, character and determination needed to overcome challenges and continue striving for improvement.
The Y Factor is evident in pupils who demonstrate perseverance when learning is difficult, resilience when faced with setbacks and belief in their ability to succeed. They understand that achievement comes through effort, reflection and determination, and they are equipped with the mindset to embrace future opportunities and challenges.
Through our commitment to Inspire, Persevere and Achieve, we ensure that every child develops the knowledge, skills and character to realise their potential, contribute positively to society and flourish both academically and personally.