Curriculum
At Chagford Church of England Primary School, we are committed to providing a safe, nurturing and happy environment where children’s learning and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. Guided by our Christian foundation and inclusive values, we ensure that every child is known, valued and supported to thrive. These values shape our approach to teaching, learning and life in our school.
Our priority is to foster children’s curiosity, confidence and enjoyment of learning by enabling them to take an active role in their education through the EYFS Framework, the National Curriculum and the wider curriculum. Teachers adopt a creative and flexible approach to their practice, ensuring learning is responsive to children’s needs, interests and experiences. We aim to nurture independent, reflective learners with a lifelong love of learning.
See link below for our Curriculum Overview -
Chagord Curriculum Overview 26-27
When considering our curriculum at Chagford Church of England Primary School, we are guided by five key principles:
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A carefully planned and thematic curriculum
Our curriculum supports children’s natural curiosity and creativity, providing opportunities for depth of learning and meaningful reflection. Creative learning, both indoors and outdoors, is central to developing key life skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, resilience, perseverance and collaboration. -
Learning through direct experience
Direct experience sits at the heart of our curriculum. Teachers create meaningful contexts that encourage children to question, investigate and make connections. Learning is active and purposeful, helping children to understand the world around them. -
Learning through a range of approaches
Knowledge, skills and understanding are developed through a wide variety of experiences, including practical learning, enquiry, play and the creative arts. -
Learning in partnership
Children, staff, parents and the wider community work together to create a challenging, distinctive and enriching curriculum. We draw upon local, national and global links to broaden children’s experiences and perspectives. -
A rich and empowering learning environment
All children are entitled to a well-resourced, engaging learning environment that promotes independence, responsibility and confidence. We encourage children to develop self-belief, a sense of belonging and respect for others, supporting them to grow as motivated learners and thoughtful members of their community.
At Chagford Church of England Primary School, all staff are dedicated to continually improving outcomes for our pupils and providing a high-quality education that meets the needs of every child. We work together to create a learning environment in which children are supported, challenged and encouraged to achieve their full potential.
Within our school, we strive to ensure:
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Thoughtful and flexible planning that reflects the diverse needs of all learners, enabling teachers to respond effectively during lessons and adapt provision based on ongoing assessment and identified next steps;
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High-quality teaching and learning that engages, motivates and challenges pupils, encouraging them to take pride in their work and develop confidence as learners;
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Meaningful and stimulating learning experiences, including regular opportunities for outdoor learning, that broaden pupils’ understanding and support learning across the curriculum;
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Clear progression and continuity in learning from the Early Years Foundation Stage through to the end of Key Stage 2, ensuring that knowledge and skills build securely over time;
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A balanced and well-structured curriculum that draws upon effective educational practice while meeting the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum, preparing pupils well for the next stage of their education.
Through this approach, we aim to create a purposeful, inclusive and inspiring learning experience for all children at Chagford Church of England Primary School.
English
Why we teach English
English is the foundation of all learning. We want children to grow into confident communicators who enjoy reading, writing and sharing their ideas. By exploring stories, poems, information texts and rich language, children learn about different places, people and experiences. English helps children develop imagination, empathy and creativity, and gives them the skills they need to succeed in every subject across the curriculum.
How we teach English
English is woven into daily life in school. Children learn through high-quality books, lively discussions and purposeful writing activities.
- Phonics helps younger children learn how letters and sounds work together so they can read unfamiliar words.
- Reading lessons help children understand stories deeply, talk about characters and events, and build strong comprehension skills.
- Writing is taught step by step, with teachers modelling how to plan, edit and improve.
- Vocabulary is taught explicitly because knowing more words helps children understand more of what they read and express themselves clearly.
Drama, storytelling and group talk activities help children build speaking and listening skills in an enjoyable, confidence boosting way.
What we want children to learn
We want every child to become a fluent reader, a confident speaker and an enthusiastic writer. Children learn to express their thoughts clearly, choose interesting vocabulary and write for different purposes and audiences. Most importantly, we hope they finish primary school with a love of reading that stays with them for life.
We use Literacy Tree and RWI Phonics to assist with our English teaching and learning.
Literacy Tree | Transform your literacy through literature.
Phonics - Ruth Miskin Literacy
Mathematics
Why we teach Mathematics
Maths helps children understand the world around them — from telling the time and measuring ingredients to spotting patterns and solving problems. It develops logical thinking, resilience and independence. Learning maths well builds strong foundations that children will rely on in later life and across other curriculum subjects.
How we teach Mathematics
We teach maths using a mastery approach, which focuses on developing a deep understanding before moving on.
- Children explore concepts using practical resources such as counters, cubes and place value blocks.
- They then move to pictures and diagrams, before learning formal written methods.
- Children practise fluency, take part in reasoning discussions and solve real-life problems.
- Teachers encourage children to explain their thinking, try different strategies and see mistakes as opportunities to learn.
What we want children to learn
We want children to develop a secure sense of number, understand key mathematical ideas and feel confident when faced with a challenge. They learn to use maths flexibly and apply their skills to new situations with increasing independence.
We use White Rose Maths to assist with our maths teaching and learning.
https://whiteroseeducation.com
Science
Why we teach Science
Children are naturally curious, and science gives them the chance to explore, ask questions and investigate. Science helps children make sense of the natural and physical world — from plants and animals to forces, materials and space. It encourages children to think critically and understand how scientific ideas influence everyday life.
How we teach Science
Science is practical and hands-on at our school. Children:
- carry out experiments,
- make predictions,
- observe carefully,
- record results, and
- draw conclusions.
We teach scientific vocabulary clearly so children can talk about their findings. Concepts are revisited each year, building children’s understanding gradually. Real-life contexts — such as cooking, weather, habitats and human health — help make learning meaningful.
What we want children to learn
Children learn key scientific knowledge as well as how to work scientifically. They develop confidence in investigating, questioning and drawing conclusions. We want them to understand the role of science in everyday life and feel inspired to explore the world around them.
History
Why we teach History
History helps children understand how people lived in the past and how events have shaped the present. It encourages children to be curious, ask questions and think about change, diversity and the human experience. Learning history builds children’s sense of identity and deepens their understanding of the world.
How we teach History
Children learn through engaging topics that bring the past to life.
They explore:
- artefacts and photographs,
- stories and written sources,
- maps, timelines and visual resources.
Children compare different periods, think about cause and effect, and consider how people’s lives have changed over time. Local history studies help children connect national events to their own community.
What we want children to learn
We want children to develop a secure chronological understanding, know significant events and individuals, and use evidence to form their own opinions. They become young historians who can ask thoughtful questions and think critically.
Geography
Why we teach Geography
Geography helps children understand their world — from their own local area to places far across the globe. It teaches them how people, places and environments are connected and encourages them to care for the planet. Geography inspires curiosity, exploration and appreciation for different cultures and landscapes.
How we teach Geography
Children learn through practical experiences. They:
- use maps, atlases and digital tools,
- take part in fieldwork and local walks,
- study weather, rivers, mountains and human communities,
- explore real-world case studies.
Enquiry questions guide children to investigate, make comparisons and think deeply about the world.
What we want children to learn
Children develop strong map skills, global awareness and understanding of environmental processes. They learn to think about how humans impact the planet and how they can make positive choices.
Art & Design
Why we teach Art & Design
Art helps children express themselves, explore ideas and use their imagination. It encourages creativity, individuality and confidence. Through art, children learn to appreciate the beauty of the world and the work of artists from different cultures and time periods.
How we teach Art & Design
Children explore a wide range of materials and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture and digital media. They study artists, craftspeople and designers, learning to talk about artwork using simple artistic vocabulary. Sketchbooks are used for experimenting, practising and refining ideas over time.
What we want children to learn
Children develop a broad range of artistic skills and learn to experiment, take risks and reflect on their work. They become confident, imaginative artists who appreciate creativity in themselves and others.
Design & Technology (DT)
Why we teach Design & Technology
DT gives children the chance to solve real problems and make useful things. It encourages creativity, teamwork and resilience. Children learn how products are designed and made, and they experience the satisfaction of bringing their ideas to life.
How we teach Design & Technology
Children follow the design-make-evaluate process. They:
- explore existing products,
- learn practical skills and techniques,
- plan designs for a purpose,
- use tools and equipment safely,
- evaluate and improve their work.
Projects include mechanisms, structures, textiles, cooking and nutrition.
What we want children to learn
Children learn to design thoughtfully, work safely and produce high-quality outcomes. They become confident problem solvers who can improve and refine their creations.
Computing
Why we teach Computing
Computing equips children for a digital world. We want them to use technology safely, responsibly and creatively. It helps them understand how computers work, how to solve problems and how to communicate effectively online.
How we teach Computing
Computing includes:
- coding,
- digital literacy,
- online safety.
Children use a range of devices and programs to explore programming, create digital content and practise essential computing skills. Online safety is taught regularly to give children the skills to protect themselves in the digital world.
What we want children to learn
Children become confident users of technology who can code simple programs, create digital work and stay safe online. They learn how digital tools can support learning and creativity.
We use Kapow computing to assist with our teaching and learning.
Computing Scheme of Work - Lesson Plans And CPD
Physical Education (PE)
Why we teach PE
PE helps children lead healthy, active lives. It develops confidence, coordination, teamwork and resilience. Physical activity boosts wellbeing and helps children learn the importance of looking after their bodies.
How we teach PE
Children take part in a variety of sports and physical activities such as games, gymnastics, dance and athletics. Skills are taught gradually, and children are encouraged to develop personal bests, work as part of a team and enjoy friendly competition. We emphasise fairness, respect and enjoyment.
What we want children to learn
Children build fitness, coordination and sporting skills. They learn teamwork, perseverance and the value of an active lifestyle.
We use Oak National Academy curriculum resources to assist with our teaching and learning.
https://www.thenational.academy
Music
Why we teach Music
Music brings enjoyment, creativity and confidence to children’s school experience. It supports emotional expression and cultural understanding, helping children connect with others through sound.
How we teach Music
Children enjoy singing, playing instruments, listening to music and composing their own pieces. They explore rhythm, pitch, tempo and notation through practical, fun activities. Music from different cultures and traditions broadens their experience.
What we want children to learn
Children develop musical skills, confidence in performance and the ability to appreciate and create music. They become expressive, enthusiastic musicians.
We use Kapow Music to assist with our music teaching and learning.
Music Scheme of Work, Lesson Plans, Resources and CPD
Religious Education (RE)
Why we teach RE
RE helps children understand different beliefs and ways of life. It encourages respect, empathy and reflection, helping children make sense of their own values and the world around them.
How we teach RE
Children explore world religions and worldviews through stories, artefacts, visits and thoughtful discussions. Lessons encourage questioning and help children recognise similarities and differences between beliefs.
What we want children to learn
Children learn about important beliefs, celebrations and traditions. They develop understanding, tolerance and the confidence to reflect on their own views.
We use the Devon and Torbay syllabus to assist with our RE teaching and learning.
Devon and Torbay Agreed Syllabus 2024-2029
PSHE / Personal Development
Why we teach PSHE
PSHE supports children’s wellbeing, relationships and personal growth. It gives them the tools to stay safe, make healthy choices and build strong friendships. It helps children understand themselves and the wider world.
How we teach PSHE
Children learn through stories, scenarios, discussions and role‑play. Lessons cover:
- emotional wellbeing,
- friendships and relationships,
- safety (including online safety),
- health and hygiene,
- citizenship and rights.
We create a safe space where children can ask questions and share thoughts.
What we want children to learn
Children develop resilience, empathy, self-esteem and social skills. They learn how to keep themselves safe and healthy, and how to be responsible, kind members of the community.
We use the SCARF whole school approach to assist with our teaching and learning.
SCARF: Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience, Friendship
Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) – KS2
Why we teach MFL
Learning a language helps children understand and appreciate different cultures. It builds communication skills, confidence and curiosity about the wider world. MFL gives children a positive start to language learning as they move into secondary school.
How we teach MFL
Lessons are fun, interactive and practical. Children learn through:
- songs and rhymes,
- games and role‑play,
- stories and conversations.
They practise pronunciation, learn everyday vocabulary and use simple grammar structures. Learning builds gradually from Year 3 to Year 6.
What we want children to learn
Children learn to understand and use simple phrases, take part in short conversations and appreciate other cultures. They leave primary school confident and ready for further language study.
We use the Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust curriculum to assist with our MFL teaching and learning.