Curriculum Vision Statement

At St Matthew’s Church of England Academy, our curriculum is rooted in our Christian vision and values, placing the child at the heart of all we do. We are committed to providing a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum that enables every pupil to flourish academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually, regardless of background, starting point or need.

Our curriculum has a clear intent: to equip all pupils with the knowledge, skills and vocabulary they need to succeed in the next stage of education and in life, while nurturing a love of learning and a strong sense of belonging. Through high-quality teaching in all areas of the curriculum, pupils progressively build understanding, resilience and confidence. Our RE curriculum is central to our school identity, encouraging pupils to explore faith, belief, and big questions with curiosity, respect and reflection.

The implementation of our curriculum is carefully designed and coherently sequenced, making effective use of our small-school, mixed age context. Learning builds cumulatively over time, ensuring that pupils remember more and can apply their learning across subjects. Teaching is inclusive and adaptive, with high expectations for all, including pupils with SEND and those who are disadvantaged. Skilled adults use assessment purposefully to identify gaps, provide timely support, and extend learning, ensuring that no child is left behind.

We place a strong emphasis on nurture, wellbeing and safeguarding, recognising that pupils learn best when they feel safe, valued and supported. Our curriculum promotes positive relationships, emotional literacy and mental health, and prepares pupils to be responsible, respectful and active citizens. Through enrichment opportunities, outdoor learning, collective worship, educational visits and engagement with the local community, we enhance pupils’ cultural capital and widen their horizons.

The impact of our curriculum is seen in pupils who are confident, articulate and motivated learners, who achieve well and demonstrate kindness, respect and integrity. Our pupils leave us well prepared for secondary education, with strong foundations in knowledge, skills and character, and with a deep understanding of our school values. Guided by our Christian ethos, we aim for every child to “live life in all its fullness,” growing into thoughtful, compassionate and hopeful individuals.