At Jessie Younghusband Primary School, we believe that children deserve a rich, ambitious and engaging curriculum that extends far beyond English and mathematics. Our wider curriculum is designed to develop curious, knowledgeable and confident learners who understand the world around them and are prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.
Rooted in our values of Aspire, Respect and Enjoy, our curriculum enables children to develop secure knowledge, subject-specific skills and a lifelong love of learning. Through carefully planned learning experiences, educational visits, practical activities and meaningful enrichment opportunities, we help children make connections between subjects and apply their learning in real-life contexts.
Our Curriculum Approach
We teach a broad range of subjects including:
Science
History
Geography
Computing
Art and Design
Design and Technology
Music
Physical Education
Religious Education
French
Personal Development and PSHE
Each subject has a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills progressively from Reception through to Year 6. Learning is structured so that children revisit important concepts, make connections with prior learning and develop greater depth of understanding over time.
We aim to ensure that children not only remember what they have learned but can also apply their knowledge confidently in new situations.
High Expectations Across All Subjects
Although English and mathematics are taught as discrete subjects, they are also woven throughout the wider curriculum wherever meaningful opportunities arise.
Children are encouraged to:
- Write at length in a range of subjects.
- Use ambitious vocabulary.
- Apply spelling, punctuation and grammar skills.
- Present their work to a high standard.
- Read, research and communicate information effectively.
Whether writing a scientific explanation, a historical enquiry, a geographical report or an evaluation in Design and Technology, we expect the same high standards that we see in English lessons.
Similarly, mathematical skills are applied across the curriculum. Children use data, measurement, statistics, graphs, calculations and problem-solving skills in subjects such as Science, Geography, Computing and Design Technology. This helps them understand that mathematics is an essential tool for understanding and interpreting the world around them.
Developing Thinking and Communication
We place a strong emphasis on discussion, reasoning and pupil voice across all curriculum subjects.
Children are encouraged to:
- Ask thoughtful questions.
- Explain and justify their thinking.
- Discuss ideas respectfully.
- Build upon the contributions of others.
- Reflect on their learning.
Through structured discussion, enquiry-based learning and collaborative activities, pupils develop the confidence and communication skills they need to become successful lifelong learners.
Learning Through Experience
We believe that children learn best when learning is memorable, meaningful and engaging.
Our curriculum is enriched through:
- Educational visits and fieldwork.
- Visitors and specialist workshops.
- Outdoor learning opportunities.
- Forest School experiences.
- Sporting events and competitions.
- Performing arts opportunities.
- Community projects.
- Leadership opportunities.
- Enrichment activities linked to curriculum themes.
We make excellent use of our local area, enabling children to explore the history, geography, culture and environment of Chichester and West Sussex whilst developing an understanding of their place within the wider world.
Bringing Subjects to Life
Across the school, children have opportunities to explore a wide range of fascinating subjects and themes.
In History, pupils investigate the past through enquiry questions, exploring topics such as Ancient Egypt, the Romans, Vikings, Ancient Greece, the Stone Age and local history linked to Chichester.
In Geography, children develop an understanding of people, places and the environment through studies of rivers, mountains, rainforests, migration, volcanoes, earthquakes, climate, trade and environmental change.
In Science, pupils develop their understanding of the world through practical investigation, observation, questioning and enquiry. They learn to think and work like scientists by making predictions, collecting evidence, analysing data and drawing conclusions.
In Music, pupils develop as listeners, performers and creators. They take part in regular singing, whole-school performances, glockenspiel and ukulele lessons, composition activities and opportunities to appreciate a wide range of musical styles and traditions.
In Art and Design, children explore a range of artists, techniques and media whilst developing creativity, technical skills and self-expression.
In Japanese, pupils progressively develop their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, helping them gain confidence in communicating in another language and broadening their understanding of different cultures.
In Religious Education, children learn about a range of faiths and worldviews, encouraging respect, understanding and reflection on important questions about life, belief and values.
Inclusion for All
We are committed to ensuring that every child can access and succeed within the wider curriculum. High-quality teaching, adaptive provision and carefully planned support ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND and other additional needs, can fully participate and achieve success.
We maintain high expectations for all learners whilst providing the support, challenge and opportunities necessary for every child to flourish.
Preparing Children for the Future
Our wider curriculum develops far more than subject knowledge. It helps children become:
- Curious and reflective thinkers.
- Effective communicators.
- Responsible citizens.
- Creative problem-solvers.
- Confident learners.
- Respectful members of society.
By the time children leave Jessie Younghusband Primary School, we want them to have a secure understanding of the world, a broad range of experiences and the confidence, character and skills needed for the next stage of their education and beyond.
Aspire • Respect • Enjoy
Our wider curriculum plays a vital role in inspiring children, broadening horizons and nurturing the individuality of every learner. Through high-quality teaching, rich experiences and ambitious expectations, we aim to ensure that every child develops the knowledge, skills and character needed to thrive now and in the future.