At Fellgate Primary, our teaching and learning of the curriculum is centred around our ethos and values of: Respect, Challenge, Resilience, Inclusion and being Unique. We provide a broad and balanced curriculum which encourages meaningful cross-curricular links to be made through the National Curriculum.
Respect and Challenge: Our curriculum encourages children to develop detailed knowledge and skills across the curriculum. Through the curriculum, children’s curiosity should be sparked through memorable experiences and innovate projects. Children are encouraged to aspire to the highest level of success through the process of engage, develop, innovate and express. Children and staff are encouraged to return to acquired knowledge and skills from different areas of the National Curriculum and apply them in a range of contexts.
Resilience and Unique: children are assessed throughout their learning. Through the use of verbal feedback and daily assessment, children are reassured that mistakes can be made and are given opportunities to develop their learning. Independence is encouraged across the curriculum and children are encouraged to work independently to foster their resilience and self-belief.
Inclusion: The curriculum is designed and adapted for all learners. Lessons are sequenced and interconnected to ensure that the curriculum allows for children to acquire the skills, achieve well and be ready for their next stage in education. Fundamental British Values and SMSC are not taught discretely and the culture is threaded through different aspects of teaching.
EYFS
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum within Fellgate Primary School follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework 2025 which sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old. We believe that everything starts in Early Years. We uphold the four guiding principles within the EYFS and we strongly believe it is important that these principles are used when implementing the seven areas of learning and development. We recognise that every child is unique and that they learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships. Furthermore, we believe that children learn and develop best in enabling environments and we recognise that children develop and learn in different ways.
We provide children with a nurturing and enabling ‘family’ environment where they can feel safe, secure and valued and develop a lifelong love of learning. Our ambitious and inclusive curriculum educates all children in knowledge, skills and understanding, to be effective, inquisitive, curious, independent learners and influence their wider thinking across all areas of the curriculum.
English
At Fellgate Primary School Primary School, English and the teaching of English is the foundation of our curriculum. Our main aim is to ensure every single child becomes primary literate and progresses in the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. English at Fellgate Primary School will not only be a daily discrete lesson but is pivotal to the entire curriculum.
It is embedded within all our lessons and we strive for a high level of English for all. Using high-quality texts, immersing children in vocabulary rich learning environments and ensuring high curriculum expectations and the progression of skills are met. The children at Fellgate Primary School are exposed to a language heavy, creative and continuous English curriculum which will not only enable them to become primary literate but will also develop a love of reading, creative writing and purposeful speaking and listening. At Fellgate Primary School, our vision is for the passion of quality literature to drive our English curriculum and for children to learn new skills in an engaging and purposeful way.
Reading
The teaching of reading in Fellgate Primary School is given high priority by all staff. It is a vital life skill and is essential as the key to independent learning. Furthermore, staff aim to promote a love of reading for pleasure and enjoyment and show children the opportunities that can arise from being a reader, not just now, but in the future also…
We are clear in our belief that reading is a multi-strategy approach to understanding the written word. It is not simply mastering the art of decoding, but involves the ability to read with understanding a wide range of texts including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and real-life texts such as labels and captions.
National Curriculum English Programmes of Study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-english-programmesof-study/national-curriculum-in-england-english-programmes-of-study
Phonics
At Fellgate Primary School, we recognise reading as a key life skill, which underpins access
to the rest of the curriculum. We believe that phonics provides the foundations of learning
to make the development into fluent reading and writing easier. Through daily, systematic
and consistent high quality phonics teaching, children learn to segment words to support
their spelling ability and blend sounds to read words. We aim for children to read words and
simple sentences by the end of Reception, become successful, fluent readers by the end of
Key Stage 1 and develop a lifelong love of reading as they move through school. The
systematic teaching of synthetic phonics, using the Little Wandle programme, is given a high
priority throughout Early Years and Key Stage 1. Children need to learn key phonic
knowledge and develop skills in segmenting and blending to complete the phonics check at
the end of Year 1 and as part of developing fluency in reading. We also value and encourage
pupils to read for enjoyment and recognise that this starts with the foundations of acquiring
letter sounds, segmenting and blending skills – enjoying success and gaining confidence
from a positive experience.
Writing
Exciting hooks and writing stimuli are key to our children becoming confident and accomplished writers. Children make great progress when fully engaged in their work. Children have opportunities to write across the curriculum and produce high quality work in Science, Topic and Maths Lessons as well as in English lessons.
Handwriting
Handwriting is taught as a skill, which enables children to use a clear, well formed style in which to record their thoughts for themselves and others to read. We aim for a clear, legible, well formed, joined up writing style, which children can produce quickly and comfortably. We want oall of our children to develop a personal style of joined up hand writing in which they can have confidence and pride.
Spelling
The majority of children from Year 1 to Year 6 are given lists of spellings each week to learn at home. Weekly spelling lessons teach the rules and skills children need to build up a knowledge of key spellings and strategies to spell words independently.
Mathematics
At Fellgate Primary School, we foster positive can-do attitudes and we promote the fact that ‘We can all do maths!’ We believe all children can achieve in mathematics and we build on skills and knowledge in a step by step and progressive way; teaching for a secure and deep understanding of mathematical concepts through manageable steps.
In Early Years Foundation Stage, we follow the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2025) to teach maths and, in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, we follow the 2014 National Curriculum.
The National Curriculum sets out three aims for all children in maths:
- to become fluent in the fundamentals of maths
- to reason mathematically
- to solve problems.
We use these aims to teach maths lessons that allow opportunities for fluency, reasoning and problem solving.
Our teachers will ensure that mathematical skills are taught every day following an exciting and purposeful Maths curriculum. They also use cross curricular opportunities to develop pupils’ mathematical fluency; providing real life contexts to further embed key skills. Our pupils understand the importance of mathematics, are encouraged to be confident in numeracy and apply the skills that they learn to a range of problem-solving activities.
Our teachers will use a CPA approach when delivering lessons so that our pupils can ‘see the Maths.’ We start maths teaching with concrete resources and move onto pictorial resources when the children have grasped the concept. When the children are ready, we then move onto abstract resources to ensure a deeper understanding of each concept.
Revisiting prior learning is key to retention in maths. We use Flashback 4 in Key Stage 1 and 2 to ensure that children have regular revisiting opportunities. This also gives the cteachers the opportunity to assess what has been retained.
National Curriculum Mathematics Programmes of Study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-mathematicsprogrammes-of-study
Science
We recognise and value the importance of science and scientific
enquiry. We intend to develop a fun, practical and engaging high-quality science curriculum
that inspires the next generation to succeed and excel in science. We do this through fully
adhering to the aims of the National Curriculum and fostering a healthy curiosity and
interest in the sciences. We believe all Fellgate Primary children should leave primary school
with a strong understanding of the world around them. We plan to do this by teaching
them the specific skills and knowledge to help them think scientifically and gain an
understanding of scientific processes, namely scientific knowledge, methods, processes and
uses of science. Including, developing our children’s understanding of the achievements of
scientists and the uses and implications of science today and for the future. Scientific
enquiry skills are embedded in each topic the children study. Topics are mostly taught as a
half termly unit with the content being revisited and developed further throughout the
children’s time at school. This allows our children to build upon their prior knowledge and
increase their enthusiasm for the topics studied and their surroundings whilst embedding
procedural knowledge (use of equipment, conducting experiments/investigation, building
arguments and being familiar with scientific terminology) into the long-term memory.
National Curriculum Science Programmes of Study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-scienceprogrammes-of-study
Art and Design
Art and design has a very important place in our curriculum. We see art as an opportunity for individual expression and creativity. It is an important form of cultural exploration and gives children the opportunity to explore a wide range of different materials and media. Our curriculum aims to build children’s artistic knowledge and to develop children’s creative competencies. Art topics are linked to the wider curriculum, including using art as a communication tool for some children. We always encourage resilience ensuring children understand there is no right or wrong and strengths are celebrated. As pupils progress, they should be able to think critically and develop a more rigorous understanding of art and design. They should also know how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation. In school we regularly take part in local and national art and design competitions and fundraising activities.
National Curriculum Art Programmes of Study https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-art-and-designprogrammes-of-study
Design and Technology
At Fellgate Primary School we aim to excite and ignite their interest in design technology
and prepare our children to participate in the development of a rapidly changing world. We
aim for all children to become confident and skilled in using creativity and imagination to
design and make products for a specific need that solve real and relevant problems within a
variety of contexts. We believe all our children will learn how to become innovative,
resourceful, enterprising and work capably with the knowledge and practical skills to bring
about change through their ideas which impact on daily life and the wider world. We want
our children to consider their own needs and others’ needs, wants and values. Our children
will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as;
mathematics, science, computing and art. The curriculum is well sequenced to provide a
coherent subject scheme that builds upon children’s prior knowledge and develops a wide
range of skills through designing, planning, making and evaluating.
National Curriculum DT Programmes of Study https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-design-and-technology-programmes-of-study
Drama
Drama is used as a key tool in developing oral skills, vocabulary development, building confidence and self- esteem, and as an essential tool in developing imaginative, expressive, and persuasive spoken and written language. ‘Hot seating’, and ‘response in role’ drama techniques are used in literacy lessons aid the development of speaking and listening, reading and writing skills. Imaginative role play is fundamental to developing the whole child, not just in Early Years and KS1 education, but also as they children develop, and our curriculum provides opportunities to perform to wider audiences through assemblies and events around key festivals. There are increasing opportunities for our pupils to perform as they progress through the school.
Computing
It is our intent to provide all of our children with a high-quality education in computing which provides access to an ever changing and expanding digital world which will play a pivotal part in children’s lives. Therefore, we want to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. We want our pupils to be creators and our broad curriculum encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy reflects this. We want our pupils to understand that there is always a choice with using technology and as a school we utilise technology (especially social media) to model positive use. We recognise that the best prevention for a lot of issues we currently see with technology and social media is through education. Building our knowledge in this subject will allow pupils to effectively demonstrate their learning through creative use of technology. We recognise that technology can allow pupils to share their learning in creative ways. We also understand the accessibility opportunities technology can provide for our pupils. Our knowledge rich curriculum has to be balanced with the opportunity for pupils to apply their knowledge creatively which will in turn help our pupils become skillful computer scientists.
We encourage staff to embed computing across the whole curriculum to make learning creative and accessible. We want our pupils to be fluent with a range of tools to best express their understanding and hope by Upper Key Stage 2, children have the independence and confidence to choose the best tool to fulfil the task and challenge set by teachers.
National Curriculum Computing Programmes of Study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-computingprogrammes-of-study
Modern Foreign Language
Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) is the development of children’s linguistic competence. At
Fellgate Primary School we believe it should be seen as a lifelong skill. Learning a language
opens up avenues of communication and exploration as well as promoting, encouraging and
instilling a broader cultural understanding, therefore entitling children to take part in a range
of activities which develop an understanding of other cultures. We aim to develop an
enthusiastic and positive attitude to other languages and language learning, develop language skills and language learning skills, and ensure children enjoy some degree of success in learning a new language.
National Curriculum Language Programmes of Study https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-languagesprogammes-of-study
Music
Music will be embedded throughout the school day to create mood, atmosphere and to improve the children’s thinking skills in a variety of lessons. Music will be taught across the school, enabling all children to explore a range of musical instruments and styles. All children will be taught to compose and improvise using the inter-related dimensions of music with both voice and instruments. They will explore how to play musically and will be encouraged to play together in ensemble groups as well as independently as a soloist. During assembly, children will use their voices expressively and creatively by singing songs in a range of genres. The musical programme ‘Charanga’ supports our teaching of music across the school.
National Curriculum Music Programmes of Study:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-music-programmesof-study
Physical Education (PE)
Fellgate Primary School recognises the importance of Physical Education (P.E.) and aims to
develop a fun, high-quality P.E. curriculum that inspires all pupils to succeed and excel in
competitive sports and other physically demanding activities. We do this by fully adhering
to the aims of the National Curriculum for Physical Education to ensure that all children:
– develop competence to excel in a broad range of physical activities.
– are physically active for sustained periods of time.
– engage in competitive sports and activities.
– lead healthy, active lives.
It is our intention to build a curriculum that enables children to develop knowledge, skills
and vocabulary in a broad range of sporting activities, as well as developing values and
transferable life skills such as tolerance, fairness and respect. Through enrichment
activities and intra-school competitions, we aim to raise the profile of P.E. and expose our
pupils to sports they may never have had the opportunity to engage with. Children will
develop the skills that will enable them to make healthier lifestyle choices both now and in
the future. We are passionate about the need to teach children how to co-operate and collaborate with others, as part of a team, understanding fairness and equity of play to embed lifelong values.
Our P.E. syllabus is based on an enhanced model of the Early Years Framework and the National Curriculum, with a clear progression structure from Reception to Year 6. This progression of skills ensures that children build the skills needed to meet the end of Key Stage objectives in the National Curriculum.
National Curriculum P.E. Programme of Study https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-physical-education-programmes-of-study
PSHE
Our PSHE and Citizenship scheme of work aims to equip children with essential skills for life; it intends to develop the whole child through carefully planned and resourced lessons that develop the knowledge, skills and attributes children need to protect and enhance their wellbeing. Through these lessons, children will learn how to stay safe and healthy, build and maintain successful relationships and become active citizens, responsibly participating in society around them. Successful PSHE curriculum coverage is a vital tool in preparing children for life in society now and in the future. Lessons in this scheme of work have their foundations in seeing each and everybody’s value in society, from appreciation of others in units such as Diverse Britain, to promoting strong and positive views of self in Think Positive and Be Yourself. Our PSHE and Citizenship units aim to cover a wide range of the social and emotional aspects of learning, enabling children to develop their identity and self-esteem as active, confident members of their community.
The themes and topics support social, moral, spiritual and cultural development and provide
children with protective teaching on essential safeguarding issues, developing their
knowledge of when and how they can ask for help.
Our PSHE and Citizenship resources are fully in line with the Learning Outcomes and Core
Themes provided by the PSHE Association Programme of Study which is widely used by
schools in England and is recommended and referred to by the DfE in all key documentation
relating to PSHE provision in schools.
This scheme of work covers all of the required objectives and follows the three core areas of
Health and Wellbeing, Relationships and Living in the Wider World. The scheme of work
fulfils the requirements of 2020 Statutory Relationships and Health Education, setting these
learning intentions in the context of a broad and balanced PSHE curriculum.
National Curriculum PSHE programmes of Study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-social-health-and-economic-educationpshe
Religious Education
At Fellgate Primary School we recognise and value the importance of Religious Education. Children will develop positive attitudes to their own and others’ beliefs, ideas, experiences, feelings and values. Our teaching of RE enables children to develop a sense of self-awareness, have respect for others, be open minded and show appreciation and wonder of the world in which we live. Children will flourish under the three key aims of: knowledge and understanding, critical thinking and personal reflection. Children at Fellgate will also develop a deepening knowledge and understanding about a range of religious and non-religious worldviews.
Religious Education DfE Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/religious-education-guidance-in-english-schools-nonstatutory-guidance-2010
Parents and carers have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of the RE curriculum.
Agreed Syllabus for religious education in South Tyneside
SMSC
At Fellgate Primary School we recognise that the personal development of pupils, spiritually,
morally, socially and culturally plays a significant part in their ability to learn and achieve.
We aim to create caring, confident and curious children who are successful learners,
confident individuals and responsible citizens.
History
Our History curriculum allows children to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of both Britain’s past and the wider world. Our curriculum is designed so our children can build on their prior learning and knowledge. They will be able to develop an understanding of chronology in addition to a knowledge of how the locality and world has changed over time. Our children are encouraged to pose their own historical questions, thinking like historians and archaeologists and using primary and secondary sources in order to make deductions about the past. Themed days, visitors and educational visits are used to further deepen our children’s historical knowledge and promote a lifelong love of history.
History programme of study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-history-programmes-of-study
Geography
At Fellgate Primary School we believe that the geography curriculum helps to provoke and
provide answers to questions about the natural and human aspects of the world. The
geography curriculum is sequenced to enable pupils to develop their knowledge,
understanding and skills in geography that are progressive, as well as transferable,
throughout their time at Fellgate Primary School and into their further education and
beyond. Geography is an investigative subject and we seek to inspire children to develop a
curiosity and fascination about the world and the people within it. Therefore, the geography
curriculum is designed to provide children with a coherent understanding of the world
around them by understanding diverse places, people, resources and human and natural
environments, together with as a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human
processes. Children will develop their geographical thinking through exploring the local to
the global, the physical and human, people and environments and the economic and social
to offer a uniquely powerful way of seeing the world. Children will develop their
geographical skills by collecting and analysing data, using maps, globes, atlases and digital
mapping.
Geography programme of study: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-geography-programmes-of-study
Planning
At Fellgate Primary School the curriculum is designed to build upon our vision that everyone feels valued and is encouraged to be the best they can be. We aim to support children’s emotional and physical well-being and ensure our children develop the knowledge and skills which will enable them to make a valued contribution to society.
We celebrate individuality, striving for everyone to reach their full potential and “shine” in everything they do. The ability to learn is underpinned by the teaching of basic skills, knowledge, concepts and values. We endeavour to provide enrichment opportunities and activities which engage learners and we strongly believe that every child is entitled to enjoy their childhood, celebrate their individuality and be the best that they can be.
Community involvement is an essential part of our curriculum, as throughout it we celebrate the history of our local area and also the importance of our school vision and values. We ensure we make connections and our pupils continually develop new skills.
It is our aim for our children that they leave Fellgate, having followed our vision and values, developed a thirst for learning, are emotionally secure and have the confidence and skills to make decisions, self-evaluate and become lifelong learners.
