Learning at Ascot Road
"Putting children at the heart of everything we do"
Developing the Whole Child
At Ascot Road Primary School, the focus extends beyond academic achievement alone. It encompasses the holistic development of each child. This approach, centred on nurturing the whole child, is vital for their long-term success, well-being, and fulfilment. While academic success is undoubtedly crucial, it's only part of the equation. A child's development involves various facets, including social, emotional, physical, and cognitive domains. Children learn to navigate social interactions, build friendships, and develop essential communication skills.
Ascot Road School pays a vital part in laying down the foundations of high expectations and values within the school. From the moment a child steps into the school, they are immersed in an environment where our values are not just words but guiding principles.
Respect, kindness,honesty, fairness and responsibility are not taught as standalone lessons but are woven into the fabric of our daily interactions, shaping how students treat one another, their teachers, and the world around them. By prioritising holistic development, we at Ascot Road School provide the groundwork for resilient, well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate life's challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. As we recognise the importance of nurturing the whole child, we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
If you wish to learn more about the curriculum, please explore the further information below and/or contact Miss Emily Kelly (Assistant Headteacher) on:
Curriculum Intent
At Ascot Road Primary School, we are delighted to introduce the Cornerstones Maestro, an ambitious, concept-driven and knowledge-rich curriculum. It is built on a sequenced knowledge and skills framework. Based on the national curriculum programmes of study, the curriculum begins with Big Ideas or macro concepts that steer the whole curriculum. These Big Ideas are broken down into smaller subject-specific concepts and aspects. These are further broken down to form a robust knowledge and skills framework that underpins the whole curriculum.
At Ascot Road we have adapted and refined this curriculum to meet the unique needs of our school.
The curriculum is based on inspirational learning activities which take place in a classroom environment that allows children to learn in a way that motivates and interests them. It provides our children with challenges, giving them opportunities to solve problems, apply themselves creatively and express their knowledge and understanding across the curriculum.
Curriculum Implementation
Every class will undertake six projects in a year- a range of ‘Imaginative Learning Projects’ alongside ‘Knowledge Rich Projects’. These projects are humanities focused (Geography and History). Within the term, each class will also do 'companion projects' which focus on the foundation subjects such as Art, DT and Science. RE, PSHE, Music, PE and computing is taught discreetly, which you can find more about in the 'subject' section of our website.
Each individual project is split into four stages of learning: Engage, Develop, Innovate and Express.
Engage
At the ‘Engage’ stage, children:
- gain memorable first-hand experiences, such as going on a visit or inviting a special visitor into school
- get an exciting introduction to the projects
- begin researching and setting enquiry questions
- get lots of opportunities to make observations
- develop spoken language skills
- take part in sensory activities
- have lots of fun to fully 'engage' with their new project.
Develop
At the ‘Develop’ stage, children:
- improve their knowledge and understanding of the topic
- develop and practise their new skills
- compose, make, do, build, investigate, explore, write for different purposes and read across the curriculum
- research their own questions and those set by others
- Follow new pathways of enquiry based on their interests.
Innovate
At the ‘Innovate’ stage, children:
- apply skills, knowledge and understanding in real-life contexts
- solve real or imagined problems using everything they’ve learnt
- get inspired by imaginative and creative opportunities
- revisit anything not fully grasped at the ‘Develop’ stage.
Express
At the ‘Express’ stage, children:
- become the performers, experts and informers
- share their achievements with parents, classmates and the community
- evaluate finished products and processes
- link what they have learnt to where they started
- celebrate their achievements!
Curriculum Impact
Students will demonstrate improved academic performance and mastery of essential skills in core subjects.They will exhibit higher levels of critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creativity, enabling them to navigate complex challenges effectively.
The curriculum will:
- foster the holistic development of students, nurturing their social, emotional, and physical well-being alongside academic growth.
- promote equity and inclusion by providing equitable access to high-quality education for all students, irrespective of their background, abilities, or circumstances.
- foster strong partnerships between schools, families, communities, and external stakeholders, creating a supportive network for student learning and development.
Overall, the impact of the curriculum will extend beyond individual students and classrooms, shaping the trajectory of education and society at large. By nurturing a generation of empowered, compassionate, and future-ready learners, the curriculum will contribute to positive social change and collective progress.
Inclusion and Diversity
At Ascot Road we are deeply committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued, respected, and supported to reach their full potential. In accordance with the Equality Act 2010 and our dedication to diversity and inclusivity, our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Our curriculum reflects the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and identities of our students. We incorporate diverse perspectives, cultures, and histories into our lessons, ensuring that all students feel represented and valued. Additionally, we actively challenge stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination through discussions, literature, and real-life examples, promoting equality and respect for all.
SMSC and British Values
At Ascot Road Primary School, we are committed to providing a well-rounded education that not only equips students with academic knowledge but also fosters their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural (SMSC) development. We do this through our PSHE scheme ‘Jigsaw’ as well as it being woven through the subject areas within our curriculum.
Find out more about how SMSC education is at the heart of our curriculum
