Oak Tree Intent Statement

At Oak Tree Primary School and Nursery, we believe it is the needs of the children that should determine the emphasis of what is taught, rather than subjects driving the curriculum. It is important that children learn what is in the statutory curriculum, but is understood that our children need much more than this. For example, it is a priority for us to provide experiential learning, as the vast majority of our children will not leave the Oak Tree estate.

To ensure the content of the curriculum meets the needs of our children as well as fulfils statutory requirements, we have established a set of Oak Tree ‘Curriculum Drivers’, these are the factors and values that shape our curriculum. They are based on the needs of the children, our school values and our location. We have threaded our children’s needs through the statutory curriculum.

We have prioritised the following four curriculum drivers that will shape our unique curriculum. They drive the aims and values of our school, and will respond to the particular needs of our children and community. They help us to shape our curriculum and therefore the opportunities we offer the children.

• Resilient Individuals- Oak Tree children will become resilient in order to deal with different challenges across the curriculum and the wider world. They will develop the ability to solve problems without giving up. Developing the skills to work independently and to be resourceful. Take Care of ourselves.
• Possibilities- We will build their aspirations so they know available possibilities for their future lives, have role models and aspire to be the best they can be. Take Care of ourselves.
• World Citizens- Our children will develop an understanding about where they live and the wider world, understand about their role in society and develop respect for the environment as well as all communities and religions. Every child at Oak Tree will be able to make a positive difference in the wider world. Take Care of our world. Take Care of each other.
• Respectful communicators- Our children will develop the skills to work well with other people from all walks of life, they will know how to speak and listen with respect in different situations. A love of language will be instilled and we will offer every opportunity to expand vocabulary through talk, reading and debating. Take Care of each other.

Our long term plans demonstrate when each topic is taught and underpin our Active plans, our Progression Maps and our Knowledge Organisers. These plans are carefully mapped to ensure the build on knowledge and skills learnt before. They reflect the current environment and the school’s local context. The plans are designed to be inclusive to all learners.

The breadth of our curriculum is designed with two goals in mind:

1. To give pupils appropriate experiences to develop as confident, responsible citizens.
2. To provide a coherent, structured academic curriculum that leads to sustained success for all and a greater depth of understanding for those who are capable.