What do we want for our children?
At Barnes Primary School, we want every child to experience a curriculum that is inspiring, ambitious and enjoyable. Our curriculum is built around three simple principles: learning, love and laughter.
We believe that all children deserve an excellent education that enables them to achieve highly, develop confidence in their abilities and discover their interests and strengths. We have high expectations for every child and are committed to ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their starting point, are supported to achieve high standards and are well prepared for next steps.
What does learning look like at Barnes?
We believe children learn best when they develop a deep understanding of important knowledge, concepts and skills. Rather than rushing through content, we focus on helping children secure their learning so that they can remember it, apply it and build upon it over time.
Our curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that learning develops progressively from Nursery through to Year 6. New learning builds upon what children already know, helping them make connections and gain confidence as they move through the school.
We encourage children to think deeply, ask questions, solve problems and explain their ideas. We want them to become independent learners who are curious about the world around them and eager to learn more.
How do we ensure that every child succeeds?
We believe that every child can achieve success. Our curriculum is inclusive and designed to help overcome barriers to learning. Teachers carefully adapt learning to meet the needs of individual children, providing support where needed and challenge where appropriate.
We do not place limits on what children can achieve. Instead, we encourage all pupils to work hard, persevere and develop a positive attitude towards learning. We want children to believe in themselves and understand that effort, determination and practice help them grow and improve.
What makes our curriculum special?
Our curriculum goes beyond the National Curriculum. Alongside strong foundations in English and mathematics, children enjoy a rich and varied education across science, history, geography, art, design technology, music, computing, languages, sport and personal development.
Learning is enriched through:
- Educational visits and visitors
- Performances, productions and music opportunities
- Sporting events and competitions
- Theme weeks and enrichment projects
- Clubs and extra-curricular activities
- Opportunities to contribute to the wider community
These experiences help children develop wider interests, broaden their horizons and create lasting memories.
Why do we value a broad and balanced curriculum?
We believe every subject matters. While English and mathematics provide important foundations, children also need opportunities to be creative, active, artistic, technological and reflective.
Our curriculum is designed to develop the whole child. We want pupils to leave Barnes Primary School with strong academic knowledge, but also with the confidence, character and skills they need to thrive in secondary school and beyond.
What is our ultimate aim?
We want our children to leave Barnes Primary School as confident, knowledgeable and caring young people who have a genuine love of learning and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
Most importantly, we want every child to know that they are valued, capable and able to achieve great things.
