Curriculum Statement for Maths

INTENT

Our long-term aim is to provide an ambitious, connected curriculum accessible to all pupils in schools right through from Reception to the end of Year 11. We use the White Rose curriculum, which not only covers all the content of the National Curriculum and GCSE, but also provides pedagogic advice for teachers.

The White Rose mission is to help every teacher of mathematics to be a world-class teacher of mathematics, but not to interfere with professional judgement – only teachers know their class(es). White Rose provides suggestions and sample materials in a structured coherent curriculum to develop pupils into mathematical thinkers.

What skills does White Rose Maths develop?

We want pupils to become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, to be able to reason and to solve problems. Our curriculum embraces these National Curriculum aims, and provides guidance to help pupils become:

Visualisers – we use the CPA (Concrete, pictorial, abstract) approach to help pupils understand mathematics and to make connections between different representations.

Describers – we place great emphasis on mathematical language and questioning so pupils can discuss the mathematics they are doing, and so support them to take ideas further.

Experimenters – as well as being fluent mathematicians, we want pupils to love and learn more about mathematics.

IMPLEMENTATION

Structure

To learn mathematics effectively, some things have to be learned before others, e.g. place value needs to be understood before working with addition and subtraction, addition needs to be learnt before looking at multiplication (as a model of repeated addition). You will see this emphasis on number skills first, carefully ordered, throughout our primary curriculum. For some other topics, the order isn’t as crucial, e.g. Shapes and Statistics need to come after number, but don’t depend on each other. We try to mix these so pupils have as wide a variety of mathematical experiences as possible in each term and year.

In our secondary curriculum, we start with algebra as this is key to the secondary curriculum as well as being comparatively new for pupils. Again we carefully order the skills – understanding notation, one-step equations, then two-step equations etc., revisiting the concepts in other areas of the curriculum and making sure that topics are covered so pupils experience variety as well as consolidation.

As maths is taught in combined year groups, we have adjusted the order of delivery to ensure where possible that units are not taught out of order in paired Years 7/8 & 9/10.

Special Educational Needs 

Pupil Passports are drawn up on a termly basis for each child in collaboration with the SENCO. 

Work will be adapted accordingly so that children with SEND can make progress in Maths. This depends upon the needs of children, who often require lots of consolidation of key skills. We recognise that progress is not always linear for these children. Some children in the autism provision receive extra maths tuition in their catch up times, in recognition of the difficulty posed by homework.

Time Allocation 

Mathematics will be taught for approximately five hours each week in Primary and four hours each week in Secondary. Opportunities to link mathematics with other areas of the curriculum are also used, especially in primary school.

Parents and homework 

In primary school children may receive weekly homework that reflects the children’s learning in mathematics that week. In middle and upper school they will receive weekly homework alongside any finishing off tasks.

If children miss key teaching time due to extended sickness, or if they work slowly, they may be invited to catch up at home. This is not compulsory but for their own benefit.

Resources

Alongside White Rose which runs throughout school as from Sept ‘22, additional resources are an amalgamation of tried and tested activities, copyright-free materials from various sources and computer software. Additional resources are chosen to challenge the more able students where necessary, and scaffold learning for the less able.

Teachers are responsible for their own resources although central stock is available for the whole school.

IMPACT

Assessment, recording and reporting

Formative assessment of children’s knowledge and understanding occurs in class and group question and answer sessions and through observation of learning during lessons as well as in marking written work.  

Initially Maths targets are set each year, based on previous year’s attainment and what we know about the child. 

Each half term children have one or more summative assessment tasks, feeding into a half termly progress check. These assessments include White Rose materials as well as Twinkl assessments, teacher made materials, and past GCSE papers for year 11. 

Half termly progress is reported to parents. A written comment or a face to face meeting may accompany these progress checks:

• Autumn 1 and Spring 2 are  followed by parent interviews
• Autumn 2 and Spring 1 will contain a brief written summary 
• Summer 2 will have a fuller written report.  

Parents are always invited to discuss these progress checks, but if children are RAGged red parents will be invited in to speak to phase leaders.

Outcomes of the Year 2 and 6 SATs (taken informally) will be analysed annually and appropriate measures will be taken to address any issues.

Teaching staff are invited to discuss MIS data with phase leaders, analysing patterns, celebrating success, and adapting practice to meet needs.

Curriculum Statement : Science

INTENT

Why study Science

The study of Science offers insight into the created world and the nature of our creator God. It is an important part of understanding the world around us and our role within it. It develops a sense of belonging and custodianship of our world and a responsible attitude to the use of the resources God has given us to manage.

Primary and lower middle (Year 1 to 6)

Science is a systematic investigation of the physical, chemical and biological aspects of the world which relies on first hand experiences and on other sources of information. The scientific process and pupils’ problem-solving activities will be used to deepen their understanding of the concepts involved. The main aspects of science to be studied will be determined by the programmes of study of the National Curriculum in England.

Through science pupils at Bradford Christian School will continue to deepen their respect, care and appreciation for the natural world and all its phenomena.

Aims

• to develop pupils’ enjoyment and interest in science and an appreciation of its contribution to all aspects of everyday life
• to build on pupils’ curiosity and sense of awe of the natural world
• to use a planned range of investigations and practical activities to give pupils a greater understanding of the concepts and knowledge of science
• to introduce pupils to the language and vocabulary of science
• to develop pupils’ basic practical skills and their ability to make accurate and appropriate measurements
• to develop pupils’ use of computing in their science studies.
• to extend the learning environment for our pupils via our environmental areas and the locality
• to promote a ‘healthy lifestyle’ in our pupils.

Objectives

The following objectives derived from the above aims will form the basis of our decisions when planning a scheme of work. Assessment will also be related to these objectives:

• to develop pupils’ enjoyment and interest in science and an appreciation of its contribution to all aspects of everyday life.
• to develop a knowledge and appreciation of the contribution made by famous scientists to our knowledge of the world including scientists from different cultures
• to encourage pupils to relate their scientific studies to applications and effects within the real world
• to develop a knowledge of the science contained within the programmes of study of the National Curriculum.

To build on pupils’ curiosity and sense of awe of the natural world

• to develop in pupils a general sense of enquiry which encourages them to question and make suggestions
• to encourage pupils to predict the likely outcome of their investigations and practical activities

To use a planned range of investigations and practical activities to give pupils a greater understanding of the concepts and knowledge of science

• to provide pupils with a range of specific investigations and practical work which gives them a worthwhile experience to develop their understanding of science
• to develop progressively pupils’ ability to plan, carry out and evaluate simple scientific investigations and to appreciate the meaning of a ‘fair test’.

To develop the ability to record results in an appropriate manner including the use of diagrams, graphs, tables and charts

• to introduce pupils to the language and vocabulary of science
• to give pupils regular opportunities to use the scientific terms necessary to communicate ideas about science
• to develop pupils’ basic practical skills and their ability to make accurate and appropriate measurements
• within practical activities, give pupils opportunities to use a range of simple scientific measuring instruments such as thermometers and force metres and develop their skill in being able to read them.

To develop pupils’ use of ICT in their science studies

• to give pupils opportunities to use ICT (video, digital camera, data logger) to record their work and to store results for future retrieval throughout their science studies
• to give pupils the chance to obtain information using the internet.

IMPLEMENTATION

Adapted Teaching and Learning and Additional Educational Needs

The study of science will be planned to give pupils a suitable range of activities appropriate to their age and abilities. Tasks will be set which challenge all pupils, including the more able. For pupils with SEN the task will be adjusted or pupils may be given extra support. The grouping of pupils for practical activities will take account of their strengths and weaknesses and ensure that all take an active part in the task and gain confidence.

Breadth and Balance, and Variety.

Pupils will be involved in a variety of structured activities and in more open-ended investigative work:

• activities to develop good observational skills
• practical activities using measuring instruments which develop pupils’ ability to read scales accurately
• structured activities to develop understanding of a scientific concept
• open ended investigations.

On some occasions pupils will carry out the whole investigative process themselves or in small groups.

Relevance

Wherever possible science work will be related to the real world and everyday examples will be used.

Cross-curricular skills and links

Science pervades every aspect of our lives and we will relate it to all areas of the curriculum. We will also ensure that pupils realise the positive contribution of both men and women to science and the contribution from those of other cultures. We will not only emphasise the positive effects of science on the world but also include problems, which some human activities can produce.

Continuity and Progression

Foundation Stage pupils investigate science as part of Understanding of the World. Children are encouraged to investigate through practical experience; teachers guide the children and plan opportunities that allow the children to experience and learn whilst experimenting for themselves. By careful planning, pupils’ scientific skills and knowledge gained at Key Stage 1 will be consolidated and developed during Key Stage 2.

Pupils in Key Stage 1 will be introduced to science through focused observations and explorations of the world around them.These will be further developed through supportive investigations into more independent work at Key Stage 2. The knowledge and content prescribed in the National Curriculum will be introduced throughout both key stages in a progressive and coherent way.

Equality of Opportunity

All children have equal access to the science curriculum and its associated practical activities. The SLT, Class Teachers and TAs are responsible for ensuring that all children, irrespective of gender, learning ability, physical disability, ethnicity and social circumstances, have access to the whole curriculum and make the greatest possible progress. Where appropriate, work will be adapted to meet pupils’ needs and, if appropriate, extra support given. More able pupils will be given suitably challenging activities. Gender and cultural differences will be reflected positively in the teaching materials used.

All children have equal access to the Science Curriculum, its teaching and learning, throughout any one year. This is being monitored by analysing pupil performance throughout the school to ensure that there is no disparity between groups.

Health and safety

Pupils will be taught to use scientific equipment safely when using it during practical activities. Class Teachers and Teaching Assistants will check equipment regularly and report any damage, taking defective equipment out of action. A simple risk assessment will be carried out for all practical activities any perceived hazards will be reported to the head who will determine the appropriateness of said activity.

IMPACT

Assessment for Learning, recording and reporting

Throughout the school teachers will assess whether children are working at/above or below the expected level for their age based on their understanding and application of the content of the National Curriculum 2014. Progress and attainment is reported to parents through parents’ evenings and end of year reports.

Marking for Improvement (see policy)

Much of the work done in science lessons is of a practical or oral nature and, as such, recording will take many varied forms thus making marking different. It is, however, important that written work is marked regularly and clearly, as an aid to progression and to celebrate achievement. When appropriate, pupils may be asked to self-assess or peer assess their own or other’s work.

Marking for improvement comments in a child’s book must be relevant to the learning objective to help children to better focus on future targets.

Science will be led by Mrs Kershaw and will be an annual focus for a staff meeting. Standards of teaching and learning will be judged using learning walks, work sampling and data review. The policy will be reviewed as part of the curriculum review cycle.

From year 1 to 6, students will be assessed every half term using EDSG criteria. The boundaries are based on:

E - accessing year group learning but need some additional support from an adult, or significant scaffolding of tasks

D - developing towards year group learning outcomes with some support

S - knows and understands age appropriate concepts for the year group

M (G) - applies concepts and develops understanding further

In years 1 to 4, the learning is considered as part of the whole year programme, meaning it is rare that a student will be secure in Autumn term as it takes time to develop scientific skills. The students are still on a developmental journey making progress during the year.

From year 5 each topic is more discreet, so grades can fluctuate throughout the year.

Resourcing

Specialist pieces of equipment and those posing a potential safety risk will be held centrally and staff access when required. Primary children have access to a range of secondary resources.

Middle (Year 7 and 8) and Upper

INTENT

What students will study

In Y78, Science uses the AQA KS3 Science Syllabus, https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/ks3/ks3-science-syllabus  This syllabus is adapted to be completed in two years rather than three, allowing for a 3 year GCSE course in Upper School, with time savings being made where ideas overlap significantly.

Key foci of Science in Y78 are on developing

1. practical skills, leading to a strong emphasis on practical both as discovery, but also increasingly, to verify hypotheses.
2. an understanding of the scientific method, in a variety of contexts, using the Analyse, Communicate, Enquire and Solve approach promoted by AQA
3. covering key topics that no longer form part of the GCSE specification

These skills are developed partly as a preparation for GCSE, with an expectation that the heavy content demand of GCSE can better be delivered with a sound skills framework 

In Upper School, Science uses the AQA GCSE Combined Science Trilogy  specification. https://media.aqa.org.uk/resources/science/specifications/AQA-8464-SP-2016.PDF   

This Science course is called Trilogy because it covers aspects of, but not a separate GCSE in, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Science Trilogy is designed to be an excellent preparation for further study of any or all of these separate subjects at A level and it is worth 2 GCSEs in Science.

Key foci of Science in Upper School are on developing

1. an ability to use models to explain observations
2. an ability to make links between different ideas within science
3. An understanding of the usefulness of science for society
4. examination technique

IMPACT

How students will be assessed

In Year 7 and 8 Middle School, students will be assessed against their EDSM (EDSG from September 2022)  target grades, Emerging, Developing, Secure, and Mastery/ Greater Depth Sept 2022. The expectation is that students will make one full level of progress during a school year. 

These EDSM boundaries are based on the AQA syllabus Know, Apply and Extend, within part 1 and part 2 of each topic,  as follows

Part 1 of a topic - minimum expectations to award a level

Assessment level	Know statements	Apply statements	Extend statements
Y7B	Few	None	None
Y7E or Y8B	Some	Few	None
Y7D or Y8E	Most	Some	None
Y7S or Y8D	All	Most	Some
Y7M or Y8S	All	All	Most
Y8M	All	All	All

Part 2 of a topic - minimum expectations to award a level

Assessment level	Know statements	Apply statements	Extend statements
Y7B	Few	None	None
Y7E or Y8B	Few	Few	None
Y7D or Y8E	Some	Few	None
Y7S or Y8D	Most	Some	None
Y7M or Y8S	All	Most	Some
Y8M	All	All	Most

In Upper School, students will be assessed against their GCSE target grades.

Assessment opportunities over a term should include most, if not all, of the following

Formative assessment - Assessment of Learning

1. End of topic test
2. Homework assignment as post learning
3. Peer assessment

Summative Assessment - Assessment for Learning

1. Homework assignment as pre learning
2. Contribution to class discussion
3. Self assessment
4. Practical skills

How the results of these assessment opportunities are weighted and combined for reporting purposes is the responsibility of the subject teacher, in consultation with their line manager. It is expected that the mix of assessment, and the weighting, will vary from topic to topic, depending on the nature of the material.

Given that Science develops learning on a spiral model, taught in discrete topics, it is likely that the overall assessment for one topic could be very different from the next, reflecting a student’s learning across what is a very wide subject.

Curriculum Policy: Computer Science

Computing provides a means for students to learn about critical thinking, problem analysis and problem solving - powerful skills which can be transferred to other subjects and applied broadly in day-to-day life. Pre-programmed solutions to a million everyday problems already exist, but unique solutions to the specific problems students will encounter in their working life are waiting to be created.

Resources are from Teach Computing, code.org, barefoot Computing, Scratch and others, including teacher-created resources. 

Years 1 & 2: Students get their own BCS Google account. Pupils are introduced to algorithms in everyday life and then translate this into code puzzles on code.org. They navigate mazes, draw shapes and solve problems with Block Code. 

Years 3 & 4: They learn to send emails to their peers and teachers for general communication and to request help. They learn the basics of Google Apps including Google Classroom for work. Their coding experience jumps up a gear to writing small, simple sections of code as well as more complex code in Block using Scratch.

Years 5 & 6: Students learn to navigate the internet safely, covering e-safety and cyberbullying. They learn more about Docs, Slides & Sheets, and use Block Code to send, receive and control physical components like BBC Microbits or Raspberry Pis. Students start the Computer Science Discoveries course on code.org, exploring and solving problems using appropriate technology.

Throughout KS2, students work through a range of typing and maths courses.

Years 7 & 8: Students start the Computer Science Principles course on code.org. This course expands on problem solving from the Discoveries course by allowing them space to think of their own approaches to problems solving. Students explore a variety of programming languages including Scratch, JavaScript, Inform and Assembler. They learn to create their own complete mobile applications rather than just using those written by others.

GCSE Computing (Y9-11): Students learn more detail about the internal functionality of computers and networks, along with information and risk management. Our 3-year GCSE course allows students to learn Python to a high level (including classes & objects), deepen their understanding of HTML & SQL, and try modern coding practices such as Agile sprints, Kanban, unit testing & code refactoring.

Non-GCSE Computing (Y9-11): Students learn real-life ICT and business skills, with a focus on office communication, creating and interrogating spreadsheets in a financial context, and using long document features in a research context.

Careers Potential: The increasing importance of information technologies means there’s a growing demand for professionals who are qualified in this field. In 2021 the number of IT job vacancies rose 105%, and employee shortages in STEM industries are estimated to cost the UK £1.5 billion a year.

Employers want not just hard workers, but smart workers, and employees who can automate mundane, time-consuming tasks will be highly prized. The ability to leverage computing power to solve complex technical problems in engineering, financial and resource management, science and medicine will put computing-savvy students at an advantage. Even those who don’t directly use computers in their work will benefit from the wealth of problem-solving techniques they’ll gain whilst learning to code.

Questions? For further information speak to Mr Kershaw (Y5-11) or Mrs Hoskins (Y1-4).

Curriculum Statement: Religious Studies

Intent

Our Christian vision and mission are central to all aspects of school life. Religious Education is taught as a discrete subject as well as faith integrated learning experiences across the curriculum. 

Our Religious Education curriculum aims to motivate and inspire children through an engaging curriculum that challenges all learners, whilst ensuring that the school Christian ethos is at the heart. The distinctive Christian ethos permeates all aspects of school life and has an outstanding impact on pupils’ personal development. This personal development is seen through the established strengths of:

• The focus on Christian Values which leads to outstanding spiritual, moral and academic development of all pupils. 
• The excellent relationships within the school family, based on Christian love and care for each individual.
• The quality of relationships with parents and the positive Christian impact the school has in the wider community.
• The school’s procedures for evaluating its effectiveness as a Christian School.
• The excellent and vibrant quality of worship which makes a significant impact on pupils’ spiritual development.
• The policy for behaviour management with a Biblical focus

Our curriculum is designed to deepen knowledge and develop skills, with literacy at the heart, ensuring effective progression within each subject discipline and across all year groups.

Our Christian Values and Distinctiveness, alongside our School Mission Statement of ….. are at the heart of our curriculum and all that we do at BCS

Implementation

In Religious Education, we implement an inclusive curriculum that meets the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum, using the West Yorkshire Agreed Syllabus alongside the diocesan advice. As a Christian School, our pupils are taught about other world faiths as part of the multicultural society in which we live. Our curriculum is well-planned and provides literacy-rich, cross-curricular opportunities. For each topic a series of stimulating lessons are planned, with clear knowledge-based learning objectives incorporating the Christian concepts (God, Creation, Fall, People of God, Incarnation, Gospel, Salvation and Kingdom of God) and subject-specific vocabulary. Reflective opportunities are planned to allow children the opportunity to evaluate what they have learnt and to address any misconceptions. Teachers assess learning in Religious Education through using the ‘Questful Maps’, the unit overviews and the Blackburn Diocese ladder of expectation.  Our curriculum is delivered through highly effective ‘quality first teaching’. Enrichment opportunities, including temporary prayer spaces and designated focus weeks, inspirational visitors (other faiths) and exciting educational visits (living church), provide our children with rich experiences and enhance teaching, learning and knowledge. Our Religious Education curriculum promotes children’s Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development, ensuring that they are reflective and responsible citizens. Fundamental British Values are actively promoted in Religious Education lessons in order to prepare the children for life in Modern Britain.

Impact

Our well-planned Religious Education curriculum ensures that children are able to make links between Christian faith and those of others in their community and in the wider world. Through the breadth and depth that our curriculum offers, children are developing an understanding of other religions and ways of life. Our curriculum enables children to become active citizens, serving their neighbour and enables them to become global citizens and courageous advocates for change in the world, from a local to global level.

Intent

Why study Religious Studies

As a Christian school, at GCSE level we study the Christian faith, its beliefs, practices and values, in some depth.  In the GCSE course a module on Judaism is also studied. This course enables students to form their own views as well as evaluate the views of others. The course encourages debate, investigation and critical thinking. It will help students prepare for doctrinal and ethical challenges in life beyond school.

to incorporate a biblical worldview  

Secondary

In Y9, 10, 11 all students will study the AQA Religious Studies ‘A’ course. This involves:

an in depth study of Christianity and Judaism; a study of St Mark’s Gospel; a cross-religious study of the following: The Existence of God and the nature of Revelation, Crime and Punishment.

Impact

Assessment

Students in Secondary will receive regular tests and End of Year exams.

The GCSE course will be examined with two terminal exams of one and three-quarter  hours each, one on religious belief and practice, and one on religious themes.

 

Curriculum Statement: History

 

INTENT

Historians do not perform heart transplants, improve highway design, or arrest criminals. In a society that quite correctly expects education to serve useful purposes, the functions of history can seem more difficult to define than those of engineering or medicine. History is in fact very useful, actually indispensable, but the products of historical study are less tangible, sometimes less immediate, than those that stem from some other disciplines.

 

The major arguments for studying history are as follows:

• History helps you develop the skills to look beyond the headlines, to ask questions properly, and to express your own opinions. Historians can solve problems, not just identify them.
• History trains your mind and teaches you how to think and process information.
• History students are rounded individuals who develop an understanding of both past and present.
• The pursuit of history provides personal and national identity, and helps them understand the world we live in.
• History helps you understand the origins of modern political and social problems, and most other subjects, context for English novels, impact of geography the list is endless.
• History lets you learn how and why people behave as they do.
• History provides you with the skills employers are looking for. Many, many well-known politicians, journalists, people in all professions have a history degree. Including the Prime Minister.
• History helps us understand people and societies, it is essential for good citizenship, and for understanding how God has dealt with His people in the past.
• History Contributes to Moral Understanding, many discussions centre around God's word.

 

IMPLEMENTATION

Students follow the Edexcel Modern History GCSE 

Year Group	History
Year 1 & 2	Changes in living memory, Changes in living memory Key individuals
Year 3 & 4	Ancient Egypt/Greece, Era of 2ww, Tudors Invaders & settlers
Year 5 & 6	Crusades/Islamic civilisations  French Revolution Local Study
Year 7 & 8	Industrial Revolution, Twentieth century, Making of the UK
Year 9 & 10	Crime & Punishment 1000 AD - Present Day; Elizabeth 1558-1588; The Cold War 1943-1991
Year 11	Germany, 1918-1939  + Revision

 

What should the role of women be in politics? (Suffragettes vs. Bible) -

Can Christians make the world a better place? (Wilberforce & Slavery, Titus Salt, Shaftesbury) -

Pacifist or Patriotic in 1914, what about conscientious objectors? -

Christian response to the Nazis. Should they break the law? (Niemoller, Bonhoeffer) -

What changed with the Reformation? How much did it affect ordinary people? -

Was it possible to be a Christian in medieval England? (Medieval church) -

How did churches respond to the moral decline of the 18th century with the industrial revolution? -

How did the philosophers of the French Revolution respond to Christianity? (Enlightenment)

 

IMPACT

How we assess our students: 

From year 1 to 4 History is assessed as part of topic, with a written comment on the end of year report

Assessment from years 5-8 is based on the EDSM categories

There is a set of professionally agreed criteria that fit these assessment targets that students half termly assessments measured against these.

At GCSE the students are tracked against their agreed GCSE target grades from years 9-11.

Intent

Geography is an integral part of our curriculum at BCS and we aim to motivate and inspire students engaging and challenging all learners. We aim to develop a curiosity and fascination about the world that the students live in and help them to enjoy learning about different global communities and their relationships between these people and their landscapes. Through our curriculum, we aim to equip students to be Global Citizens, to develop an awareness of the wider world and their place within it, encourage them to take an active role in the community and work with others to make our planet more peaceful, sustainable and fairer. We hope that our students will become passionate about the planet and become actively involved in protecting the environment.

Our Geography curriculum is designed to deepen knowledge and develop key skills. We aim to ensure effective progression within each geography unit and across all year groups. 

Our Christian Values and distinctiveness are at the core of our curriculum and all that we do, and are evidenced in Geography primarily around God’s creation when considering Physical Geography, and our shared humanity when considering Human Geography.

Implementation

In Geography, we implement an inclusive curriculum that meets the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum, incorporating the four main areas of learning at each key stage: place, location, human and physical and geographical skills and fieldwork.

 

Our curriculum at Y7Y8 covers all the key learning outcomes of the KS3 NC unless these are duplicated significantly at GCSE.

 

Our curriculum is delivered through highly effective ‘quality first teaching’ using a range of schemes and resources, such as Hamilton and Twinkl in primary, moving towards GCSE after Year 9. Enrichment opportunities, including outdoor learning, inspirational visitors and Geography field trips, provide our students with rich experiences and enhance teaching, learning and knowledge.

 

In Primary School, Geography is well-planned and provides literacy-rich, cross-curricular opportunities providing sophisticated links to provide effective links across subjects to ensure cohesion across the whole curriculum. It is predominantly taught through overarching themes in Science and History. At the beginning of each Geography unit, students demonstrate their prior knowledge, which helps to inform planning and teaching. A series of stimulating lessons are planned, with clear knowledge and skills-based learning objectives and subject-specific vocabulary. Post learning tasks are planned to demonstrate progress, knowledge and understanding. Teachers assess learning in geography against knowledge and skills-based learning objectives within unit overviews.

In Middle  School, Geography is delivered as as one third of our Humanities curriculum for 2 hours a week along with some aspects being delivered though our Middle School Topic

In Upper School, Geography is delivered via an optional GCSE at 2 hours a week.

Impact

Our well-planned Geography curriculum ensures that students are competent in the geographical skills needed to collect, analyse and communicate data, and to interpret a range of geographical sources, including maps, globes and aerial photographs. Students are taught to communicate information in a variety of ways including maps, numerical and quantitative skills and a range of literacy skills, as well as considering the impact on communities.

Through the breadth and depth that our Geography curriculum offers, our students are provided with a broad knowledge of the world they live in, and understand, as responsible citizens, how they need to care and preserve the planet for future generations.

 

Progress in Geography, as for all other subjects, is collated every half term using EDSM grades for Middle School and GCSE grades for Upper School. Subject level analysis is carried out between the subject teacher and their line manager during catch up meetings

INTENT

Why study Spanish

Learning a MFL is part of becoming a world citizen. It allows us to understand another cultural point of view as well as understanding our own language and culture better.  The life skills involved in language learning include openness to others and ideas.  It’s a subject for students who will go far in life.  It also helps students understand that the church and Christians have a world, as well as a local, role to play.  

 

Spanish has been chosen as it is a widely spoken language that students are likely to have the opportunity to speak on holidays.  It is also relatively straightforward in terms of pronunciation and grammar, making it accessible to learn.

IMPLEMENTATION

Primary: Spanish learning begins in year 3 and 4 with oral work based on games, songs and interactive activities.  Starting with oral work mirrors how we learn our mother tongue.  It is the basis for language fluency.  As children are still establishing their understanding of English phonetics, it minimises the risk of confusion and mispronunciation.  Children gain a confidence and enjoyment in MFL that is not always seen in British children or indeed adults.

 

Middle: In year 5 students begin to use written Spanish, but oral work continues to be foundational. Topics are taught on a 2 year rotation taking into account mixed year 5-6 and 7-8 classes.  Topics cover their own lives, families, friends, free time, school, etc. as well as understanding more about the lives of young people in Spanish- speaking countries. Grammar is introduced, new vocabulary is learned, cultures and traditions are explored and skills developed in listening, speaking, reading and writing.  For some students their MFL studies will end after year 8, so there is a dual focus of language skills for life and as preparation for GCSE Spanish.

 

Upper:   

The AQA GCSE Spanish curriculum is based on three themes:

1. Identity and Culture;
2. Local, national, international and global areas of interest;
3. Current and future study and employment.

IMPACT
Assessment: 

There are 4 equally weighted end of course exams in:

Listening – Understanding and responding to different types of spoken language.

Speaking – Communicating and interacting effectively in speech for a variety of purposes.

Reading – Understanding and responding to different types of written language.

Writing – Communicating effectively in writing for a variety of purposes.

 

Themes 1 and 2 are rotated in the mixed year 9 and 10 class.  Theme 3 is covered quickly in year 11 to allow time for revision in the lead up to the exams.  

 

Students are expected to take a much higher ownership of their learning using apps such as quizlet and memrise (vocabulary learning); conjugamos (grammar practice) and duolingo (although not GCSE specific). 

 

Students can be examined at either foundation or higher level allowing for a wide range of abilities, although the new curriculum requires a level of fluency in a wide range of topics and skills.  

 

Topics include many contemporary issues such as poverty, global warming, marriage/partnership and career expectations.  Students are encouraged to develop their own responses and opinions backed up by reasons and examples.

Intent

At BCS students will be taught Art and Design in a way that ensures a progression of skills following a sequence which builds on previous learning. Our students will learn to utilise a wide range of formal elements in a way that will enable them to express themselves creatively and engage with the work of significant artists and art movements.

Implementation

We follow a broad and balanced Art and Design curriculum that builds on previous learning and provides both support and challenge for learners. Children’s work and pictures of their work will be in their sketchbooks for reference and assessment. Outstanding work will be displayed around the school.

Impact

Our children enjoy and value Art and Design. Children will understand and appreciate the value of Art and Design in the context of their personal wellbeing and the creative and cultural industries which provide a wealth of future career opportunities. Progress in Art and Design is demonstrated through regularly reviewing and evaluating children’s work to ensure that progression of skills is taking place. The Art and Design curriculum will contribute to children’s personal development in creativity, independence, and self-reflection. 

Reading Policy

Phonics Policy

Curriculum Statement: Physical Education

INTENT
Why study Physical Education ? 

Physical education helps students to develop the skills, knowledge, and competencies to live healthy and physically active lives. They learn ‘in, through, and about’ movement, gaining an understanding that movement is integral to human expression and can contribute to people’s pleasure and enhance their lives.

Promotes active lifestyles 

Students are encouraged to participate in physical activity and understand how this influences their own well-being and that of others. Students are encouraged to participate in sport, dance, exercise, recreation, and adventure pursuits.

Challenges thinking in a safe environment 

Physical education engages and energises students. It provides a secure context in which to learn. Students will be challenged to develop their physical and interpersonal skills. The skills taught in physical education improve students’ performance, sharpen their knowledge of strategy and tactics, and help them to transfer knowledge from one context to another. 

 

Physical Activity:  students will be taught how to be physically active and to develop their personal fitness. By expressing themselves through actions; to have knowledge of relevant equipment and to develop whole body movement with flexibility, strength and endurance.

 

Independence:  Where students will become independent learners through solving problems and evaluating and modifying their work. By developing their skills through repetition and practice and being able to work co-operatively with self-discipline.

 

Positive Attitudes:  Where students will develop the concepts of fair play, success and failure relating to both independent activities and cooperative games.  Where they are aware of the effects of their actions, and their own and others' strengths and weaknesses. students will develop as confident learners who enjoy physical activity.

 

Safe Practice:  students should develop an awareness of safety with regard to themselves and others, in relation to the preparation of equipment, response to instructions; posture, clothing and personal hygiene.

 

IMPLEMENTATION

 

Students will experience a developmental programme of Physical Education, which includes the elements required to achieve success

.  

This will be promoted through:

 

1. Athletic Exercises - The students will experience all the requirements of the athletic component whilst addressing the other areas of the Physical Education curriculum (i.e. elements of athletics appear in the gym and games components).

1. Dance - It should include elements of quality, control, interpretation and communication, through expressive movement.  It should include variations in shape, direction, speed, level, tension and continuity. Patterns of movement should involve stepping, twisting, turning and rhythm.  

In this way, dance can contribute to development in the following areas:

• Artistic and aesthetic.
• Cultural
• Personal and social.
• Physical Education, health and fitness.
• Cross-curricular learning.

1. Gymnastics - In this school the emphasis will be on Educational Gymnastics, where students are given a task and determine their own movements to meet that task's requirements.  The teacher's role is to improve a child's natural movements e.g. jumping, rolling, balancing, climbing, in terms of quality and control, with specific reference to:

1. Type of activity - run, jump, rock, step, twist.....
2. The body - what it does or is working on.
3. Body weight management.
4. Apparatus.
5. Personal space; width, symmetry, height; direction; general direction i.e. forward, up; levels; high, medium, low; time; stop, start, quick, slow.

 

1. Games  - Games should promote the following experiences for all pupils:

• Practice of skills.
• Co-operative learning.
• Self-esteem.
• Skill acquisition.
• Sense of fair play.
• Experience of success and failure.

 

These should include:

1. i) Individual practice.
2. ii) Direct and less direct instructions.

1. Partner and group work.
2. Varied games.
3. Movement off the ball.
4. Experiment and expression.

 

5. Outdoor and Adventurous -  Although this is seen to be addressed mainly by visits; e.g. on residential weeks and in D of E award , it must also be taught  This can be achieved through simple orientation games and, especially in summer, should include maximum use of the school playground and field

The Physical Education Lesson.

Below is a general outline for the basic Physical Education lesson.

 

Each lesson should include:

1. a) Warm up.
2. b) Opening activity.
3. c) Individual work - main theme.
4. d) Pair/group work - main theme (if applicable) with or without apparatus
5. e) Conclusion - could be a sequence or a small game.
6. f) Warm down

IMPACT

 

Assessment And Recording.  Assessment will be carried out according to the requirements of the National Curriculum. The end of Key Stage statements for Assessment at Key Stages 1 and 2 include the following statements of attainment:

 

Key Stage 1:  students must be able to:

1. i) Plan and perform simple actions and sequences, safely.
2. ii) Practice and improve performance.

iii) Describe what they are doing.

1. iv) Know the effects of exercise on their body.

 

Key Stage 2:  students must be able to:

1. i) Plan, practise, improve and remember more complex sequences.
2. ii) Perform effectively, and make quick decisions.

iii) Respond safely as individuals and in groups.

1. iv) Swim unaided 25 metres (by the end of year 7)
2. v) Evaluate self and peer performance.
3. vi) Keep up energetic activity and understand the effect it has on their bodies.

 

Key Stage 3  students must be able to:

1. i) Understand the need for warm up, stretching and cool down.
2. ii) Perform effectively in team games and individual exercises.

iii) Respond safely as individuals and in groups.

1. iv) Evaluate self and peer performance.
2. v) Devise and perform effective practice drills
3. vi) Keep up energetic activity for an extended period..

 

Key Stage 4  students must be able to:

1. i) Perform rigorous warmup exercises..
2. ii) Perform effectively in team games and individual exercises..

iii) Acquire Sports Leadership skills and qualifications.

1. iv) Participate in outdoor adventurous activities (DofE award)
2. v) Evaluate self and peer performance.
3. vi) Keep up energetic activity for extended periods..

Specific Requirements 

The elements of Physical Education that students should experience in our school are:

1. i) Athletic Exercises.
2. ii)

iii) Games.

1. iv) Gymnastic Activities.
2. v) Outdoor and adventurous activities.

 

Planning

This is outlined in detail within Curriculum Cohesion documents

 

Primary 

Within the Primary Department the students participate in Gymnastics, Dance, and Games. We aim to create a positive attitude towards a healthy active lifestyle through these activities that will follow on into secondary P.E. We also promote and encourage independence, honesty, sportsmanship, leadership and self-care.  

 

Middle

In Middle School students will have the opportunity to participate in: Netball, Boxercise, Circuit training, Handball,Volleyball  Rounders, Dance, Football, Athletics and Gymnastics.

 

Upper

In Upper School students will have the opportunity to participate in: Netball, Table Tennis, Boxercise, Circuit training, Handball, Athletics, Rounders, Dance, Football, Badminton and Gym training.

IMPACT

Assessment

Students will receive verbal feedback on their effort and performance, and a written comment made on their end of year report, but they will not be formally assessed in PE. Currently PE is not a GCSE exam course at Bradford Christian School. From 2022 the Sports Award is offered as a year 9 and 10 option.

PE Kit

Students wear PE kit on PE days.

Equal Opportunities

The Educational Reform Act gives students entitlement to all areas of the National Curriculum, including P. E.

 

Sanctions should therefore not be used which would affect a child’s participation in P.E. 

However, if a child’s behaviour or action is considered by the teacher to be a danger to either themselves or others then, for reasons of safety, that child will be withdrawn. The child, where possible, should continue to observe the lesson.

 

Each child will have the opportunity to fulfil their own potential. A wide range of extra - curricular activities exist to extend and develop specific skills and this may include selection for school team events. Written or verbal permission will be obtained from parents or guardians for such occasions.

Curriculum Statement for
RELATIONSHIPS AND SEX EDUCATION

A foundation for relationships

Humans are made for relationships: with God and with each other. Indeed, at the heart of the Christian view of God is relationship. The Bible says that God is personal: one God in three Persons, and within the Godhead there are rich, interpersonal relationships. 

As beings who are uniquely made in the image of God relationships are of central importance for us as well. When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, his response affirmed the importance of loving both one’s Creator and one’s neighbour.

At the heart of the Christian Gospel lies the possibility of a restored relationship with God; alongside this comes an emphasis on positive, healthy relationships between human beings.

Building healthy relationships today 

Our society is experiencing an ‘epidemic’ of loneliness. The sense of isolation that can arise in the modern world does not just impact the elderly.

Such factors as rapid technological advance and the advent of online social networking present challenges to the relationships of the young. Living in a digital world can mean that an unprecedented connection to others goes hand-in-hand with a dissatisfaction or difficulty with face-to-face relationships. 

Preparing for life in modern Britain

At BCS, we are committed to preparing our students for life in modern Britain. 

Our country comprises people with diverse worldviews and opinions – sexual, political, cultural and religious – and widely varying practices and lifestyles. Our character education therefore equips students to understand different perspectives and to recognise the diversity of our society.

Students learn to respect and live peaceably with those who hold different, even mutually exclusive, views . Our students learn to practise mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths, beliefs and lifestyles. 

We want our young people to pursue truth, learning to think for themselves rather than to accept ideas without critique. 

Alongside ensuring our students stay safe we seek to guide them to think through the choices they face in the realm of their relationships. As our young people move towards adulthood we want them to grow in wisdom, having considered the differing perspectives about what is the best and the right way to live. 

We emphasise the importance of character and the need to take responsibility for others as well as ourselves. 

We are committed to the Bible as God’s Word, and believe that in it God reveals himself to us, as well as his plan for human relationships. 

We recognise that sensitivity is vital as controversial ethical issues are considered, and we look to the example of Jesus and his love and compassion for all.

Relationships and sex education at BCS 

In our relationships and sex education we seek to help our students flourish in all their relationships (with friends, family, fellow students and with those they will interact with in life beyond school). 

We teach about sexual relationships in a way that is consistent with our Christian ethos: 

sex is a good gift of a good God who wants what is best for people he loves; 

sex is more than just a physical act, and involves the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of our being;

right and wrong exist; humans are moral beings who are responsible for the decisions they make; commitment is of vital importance and marriage is the right context for sexual relationships;

all people are valuable; we need to take responsibility for others and treat them with respect. 

In British law marriage is between two consenting adults, but we recognise that many Christian churches understand the Bible to teach that marriage is the union of one man and one woman for life.This is also the teaching of other faiths. 

Relationships and Sex Education Aims

We aim to help our students to become: 

1. Knowledgeable Students who have a sound knowledge of physiological and biological aspects of sex and reproduction 
2. Thoughtful Students who reflect with maturity on the differing perspectives on relationships and sexual ethics 
3. Discerning Students who are empowered to make wise choices in life relating to relationships, sex and sexuality 
4. Confident Students who have an appreciation of their own self-worth and dignity and know where they can turn for help and advice 
5. Selfless Students who put the interests of others before their own 

Relationships and Sex Education Principles

Five principles that we seek to uphold in all aspects of our programme of relationships and sex education will be: 

1. Age appropriate

We seek to ensure that our delivery will be structured so as to protect children’s innocence without compromise to clarity. 

2. In partnership with parents/carers

We are privileged to have immense support from the parents of our students; indeed, the partnership that exists between BCS and home is one of the strongest features of school life. Our relationships and sex education will be significantly more effective as parents also spend time discussing the issues with their children. We encourage parents to teach their children about relationships and sex before they learn about it at school, or from any other source. 

3. Pastorally sensitive 

We recognise that our students will have experienced a variety of home backgrounds and we are wholly committed to ensuring our support for parents as they seek to give their child the best possible start to life. We are fully aware also of the diversity of views on moral issues that exists in the modern world and our aim is to be entirely sensitive in areas where there is disagreement. 

4. Consistent with our ethos

We believe that the Bible outlines the best for human relationships and BCS is not required to promote views that are contrary to its ethos. But the Bible could not be clearer also about the value, worth and dignity of all, regardless of their views or their moral decisions; as such, we will treat all of our students with the same care and compassion. We also acknowledge that an exposure to different viewpoints is important as we seek to make up our mind. 

5. Well planned and expertly delivered

We seek to ensure that our staff deliver quality relationships and sex education which communicates facts and viewpoints clearly.

BCS FINANCE AND STUDY SKILLS

Why study BCS Finance?

Understanding finance is a vital tool for young people to acquire before they leave school and embark on further education or enter the world of work. We explore many of the topics through a Christian Worldview, exploring a range of Christian and other faith views, to issues raised such as borrowing, debt, tithing.

Application and relevance to the students current lives is explored as well as preparation to become a wise steward of resources and finances. Subject knowledge is blended with digital and soft skills pertinent to each topic. Learning in the course meets some requirements from the citizenship, maths and PHSE curriculum.

What does the course cover?

The Finance aspect of this course includes a study of  the following modules:

Credit and debt, Frauds and Scams, Payslips and Tax, Saving, Borrowing, Financial Planning, Basic Marketing, Brands and Branding.

The Study Skills components cover the following modules:

Developing a CV and Personal Statement, Revision and Study Skills, Using a spreadsheet.

How is this course assessed?

By internal assessment throughout the course, leading to a BCS certificate. 

Curriculum Statement: Drama

INTENT

Why study Drama

Participating in drama builds confidence and presentation skills; it gives you the confidence to talk to a room full of people. It provides room for expression and sets a person free to be both creative and expressive of their personal self.

IMPLEMENTATION

Primary

Students are introduced to drama as a curriculum lesson. They also experience drama as part of the annual nativity play.

Middle

Students are introduced to drama as a curriculum.

Years 5&6  and 7&8 study the same modules over a rolling 2 year process

Year 1	Year 2
Ensemble and team building	Ensemble and team building
5&6 Pantomime 7&8 Movement	5&6 Vocals and sounds  7&8 Shakespeare
5&6 Comedy...slapstick and sketches 7&8 Mask work	5&6 Spoken words 7&8 Proxemics and status
5&6 Characterisation 7&8 Sketches	5&6 working with Music 7&8 monologues
5&6 Morality plays 7&8 Famous practitioners	5&6 Script work 7&8 monologues
5&6 Characterisation 7&8 improvisation	Technical aspects of drama

Upper 

Students are offered the choice to study for The Arts Award, devised by Trinity College London. Students have the opportunity to shape their course to fit their interests, this helps to get them interested, engaged and participating in the performing arts.

There are 4 modules in the Bronze award: This is a year’s study

• Participating in the arts 
• Experiencing the arts
• Finding inspiration within the arts
• Sharing artistic skills to others.

There are 2 modules in the Silver award. This is a year and a half study.

• Leadership of other people’s involvement in an art form
• Arts in practice, where students have to undertake a work experience in an aspect of arts in the community

IMPACT

Assessment is through continual assessment and through the production of  portfolio. There are no formal exams in this award.

Confidence, resilience…

Curriculum Statement: Drama

INTENT

Why study Drama

Participating in drama builds confidence and presentation skills; it gives you the confidence to talk to a room full of people. It provides room for expression and sets a person free to be both creative and expressive of their personal self.

IMPLEMENTATION

Primary

Students are introduced to drama as a curriculum lesson. They also experience drama as part of the annual nativity play.

Middle

Students are introduced to drama as a curriculum.

Years 5&6  and 7&8 study the same modules over a rolling 2 year process

Year 1	Year 2
Ensemble and team building	Ensemble and team building
5&6 Pantomime 7&8 Movement	5&6 Vocals and sounds  7&8 Shakespeare
5&6 Comedy...slapstick and sketches 7&8 Mask work	5&6 Spoken words 7&8 Proxemics and status
5&6 Characterisation 7&8 Sketches	5&6 working with Music 7&8 monologues
5&6 Morality plays 7&8 Famous practitioners	5&6 Script work 7&8 monologues
5&6 Characterisation 7&8 improvisation	Technical aspects of drama

Upper 

Students are offered the choice to study for The Arts Award, devised by Trinity College London. Students have the opportunity to shape their course to fit their interests, this helps to get them interested, engaged and participating in the performing arts.

There are 4 modules in the Bronze award: This is a year’s study

• Participating in the arts 
• Experiencing the arts
• Finding inspiration within the arts
• Sharing artistic skills to others.

There are 2 modules in the Silver award. This is a year and a half study.

• Leadership of other people’s involvement in an art form
• Arts in practice, where students have to undertake a work experience in an aspect of arts in the community

IMPACT

Assessment is through continual assessment and through the production of  portfolio. There are no formal exams in this award.

Confidence, resilience…