Our Curriculum Vision

At Thundersley Primary School, we want every child to develop the knowledge, skills and character needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through our curriculum, we aim to nurture aspirational, resilient and lifelong learners who are curious about the world around them and equipped for future success.

Learning begins in the Early Years, where children develop the language, confidence, curiosity and foundational knowledge that underpin future success throughout their journey at Thundersley. From EYFS to Year 6, our curriculum is carefully designed to help children know more, remember more and achieve more.

We believe that every child deserves access to a rich, ambitious curriculum. Through high-quality teaching, appropriate adaptations and high expectations for all, every pupil is supported and challenged to succeed.

Our Big Question Curriculum

Our curriculum is shaped by carefully chosen enquiry questions that inspire curiosity, discussion and deeper thinking.

Each area of learning is framed by a meaningful "Big Question" that encourages children to investigate, explore ideas, make connections and apply their knowledge in different contexts. These questions provide a purpose for learning while ensuring that the knowledge, vocabulary and subject-specific skills within each curriculum area are taught explicitly and progressively.

Through this approach, children develop secure subject knowledge while gaining a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it.

Reading at the Heart of Learning

Reading is central to everything we do.

Through high-quality phonics, guided reading, rich class texts and a culture that celebrates reading, we ensure that every child develops the skills needed to become a confident, fluent and enthusiastic reader.

We believe reading opens doors to opportunity, imagination and understanding. It is not only a subject in its own right but also the key through which children access the wider curriculum and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Oracy: Giving Every Child A Voice

We believe every child should have the confidence and skills to express their ideas and know that their voice matters.

As a Voice 21 school, we teach children both to talk and to learn through talk. From EYFS to Year 6, pupils develop the vocabulary and communication skills needed to articulate their thinking, listen actively and engage in meaningful discussion.

Through our Big Question curriculum, rich texts and purposeful dialogue, children explore different perspectives, deepen their understanding and build on the ideas of others.

By placing oracy at the heart of our curriculum, we prepare children not only for success in school, but also to contribute positively to the wider world.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

We believe that memorable experiences enrich learning and help children make sense of the world around them.

 Our curriculum is enhanced through educational visits, visitors, performances, sporting events, clubs and enrichment opportunities that broaden horizons, deepen understanding and bring learning to life.

 Alongside academic success, we are committed to developing confident, respectful and resilient individuals. Through a range of wider opportunities, including The Robus Promise, children experience new challenges, cultural experiences, leadership opportunities and community involvement that help them build confidence, develop character and create lasting memories.

 We also recognise the importance of physical activity and sport in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing, helping children lead healthy and active lives.

What We Want Children to Become

By the time children leave Thundersley Primary School, we want them to be:

·         Confident, resilient and independent learners.

·         Fluent readers with a genuine love of books and learning.

·         Knowledgeable young people with secure foundations across the curriculum.

·         Curious thinkers who ask questions and make meaningful connections in their learning.

·         Respectful, responsible citizens who value diversity and contribute positively to their communities.

·         Ambitious individuals who embrace challenge and aspire to achieve their very best.

In all aspects of school life, our children strive to:

"Be the best they can be."

Exploring Our Curriculum

Our Learning Journey Maps show how knowledge, skills and experiences are carefully sequenced from EYFS through to Year 6. They demonstrate how learning builds over time, enabling children to revisit, strengthen and apply what they know as they progress through the school.

For more detailed information about what children learn in each year group, please explore our:

·         Curriculum Journey Maps

·         Early Years Curriculum Overview

·         Subject Curriculum Pages

·         Knowledge Organisers

Together, these documents provide a clear picture of the exciting journey of learning at Thundersley Primary School.