Whole School Curriculum

Curriculum Intent Statement

At Widnes Academy, we want every child to leave us as a happy, confident and independent learner, equipped with the knowledge, skills and personal qualities they need to succeed in the next stage of their education and beyond.

The impact of our curriculum is reflected in pupils who are curious, resilient and motivated to learn. They develop secure knowledge and skills, build upon their prior learning and are increasingly able to make connections between different areas of the curriculum. Through our focus on metacognition and self-regulation, pupils are encouraged to think about how they learn, reflect on their progress and take increasing responsibility for their own learning.

Reading is at the heart of our curriculum. We recognise that being able to read confidently and fluently opens the door to learning across every subject. Through high-quality texts and rich reading experiences, we aim to develop confident readers with strong vocabulary and comprehension skills, alongside a genuine enjoyment and love of reading.

Our curriculum is ambitious and inclusive for all. We have high expectations for every pupil and are committed to ensuring that disadvantage, additional needs or barriers to learning do not limit children's opportunities or aspirations. Teaching is adapted where appropriate, and targeted support and challenge enable pupils to access the curriculum, build secure knowledge and make progress from their individual starting points.

We recognise that education is about more than academic achievement. Our curriculum supports pupils' personal, social, emotional and physical development, enabling them to grow into responsible and respectful members of their community. Through PSHE, pastoral support, enrichment, sport and a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities, pupils develop confidence, resilience, positive relationships and an understanding of how to keep themselves healthy and safe.

Our expectations of being Ready, Respectful and Safe are embedded throughout school life. Pupils learn to take pride in their achievements, respect others, celebrate difference and understand the importance of contributing positively to their school, local community and wider society.

We continually evaluate the impact of our curriculum through assessment, pupils' work, pupil voice and the monitoring of teaching and learning. This helps us to identify strengths, address gaps in knowledge and ensure that our curriculum continues to meet the needs of all pupils.

Ultimately, the impact of our curriculum can be seen in pupils who know more, remember more and can do more. We want children to leave Widnes Academy with strong foundations in reading, writing and mathematics, a broad body of knowledge across the curriculum, high aspirations for their future and the confidence, independence and resilience to embrace their next steps successfully.

Please see the links below which outline our Curriculum Drivers, supporting our children to be the best they can be.