The KVPS Curriculum
Our Vision for Learning At Kirkstall Valley Primary School, our curriculum is the heartbeat of our community. Driven by our core values of Courage, Compassion, and Commitment, we have designed a curriculum that is not only ambitious and academic but also deeply inclusive. We believe that a high-quality education is a matter of social justice; therefore, our offer is comprehensive, cohesive, and accessible to every child, regardless of their starting point.
A Sequenced Journey of Discovery We view the curriculum as a map, guiding children through a carefully sequenced journey of learning.
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Knowledge-Rich: Underpinning each creative theme is a core body of knowledge that is systematically taught, revised, and revisited. This ensures learning is committed to long-term memory, empowering children to "know more, remember more, and do more."
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Disciplinary Skill: We do not just teach subjects; we teach disciplines. Our children learn to think like historians, work like scientists, and create like artists. They use their knowledge to analyse sources, explain cause and effect, and solve complex problems.
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Global & Local Perspectives: We understand that our children will be problem-solvers in a challenging landscape. Environmental awareness and concern for our planet’s ecology are explicitly woven into our planning. We ensure children understand current political and humanitarian issues, reacting with knowledge and compassion.
Inclusive & Adaptive Teaching Our teaching philosophy is evidence-informed. We understand that for children to access the wider curriculum, they must first secure strong foundations.
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Reading as the Gateway: We prioritise accurate and fluent reading, spelling, and vocabulary development. We believe that reading is the master key that unlocks the rest of the curriculum.
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Adaptive Practice: We are committed to the success of all pupils. Rather than relying solely on catch-up interventions, our teachers use adaptive teaching strategies within the classroom to ensure pupils "keep up." For pupils with SEND, or those who face other barriers, we make precise, reasonable adjustments to the curriculum and environment to ensure they can access the same ambitious content as their peers.
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Broadening Horizons: We actively challenge stereotypes, particularly regarding gender and ethnicity in STEM. Through initiatives like our Work and Finance Day and our pioneering partnership with Wates Construction, we demonstrate that high aspirations belong to everyone.
The 'KVPS Difference': The Small Wchool with a Big Heart - Our HEART Curriculum Our curriculum extends far beyond the classroom walls. To foster character and confidence, we have developed our bespoke HEART curriculum—an enriched programme of personal development that ensures every child leaves us ready for life in modern Britain.
H — Health: We equip pupils with the knowledge to keep themselves physically and mentally healthy.
E — Events: We ensure access to rich cultural events and experiences that broaden horizons.
A — Activity: We promote an active lifestyle through sport, play, and outdoor learning.
R — Responsibility: We nurture responsible citizens who contribute positively to their community and the planet.
T — Talent: We identify and grow the unique talents and interests of every individual child.
Find Out More To see the specifics of this journey, please view the ‘Year at a Glance’ documents below. These provide a snapshot of the topics and themes for each class. For detailed information on specific subject progression, please speak to your child’s class teacher or a member of our leadership team.
