Primary Curriculum

In Early Years, we aim to build on children’s previous experiences to ensure that as they enter One Degree Academy, they are happy, fulfilled and ready for key stage 1 and beyond. In line with the Early Years Foundation Framework (EYFS), we aim to ignite children’s curiosity and capacity to learn. We focus in particular on three keys areas: Communication and Language; Personal, Social and Emotional Development; and Physical Development. These areas are important foundations for child development and crucial for later success.

At One Degree our curriculum is carefully tailored to adhere to the EYFS statutory framework. Our Maths Mastery programme draws on the latest best practise from Singapore and China, while our Phonics programme, Read Write Inc, means children get off to a flying start in both English and Maths. As with all year groups at One Degree Academy, we devote extra time to reading and exposing children to a range of texts to foster a love and enjoyment of stories and reading. This approach is complemented by learning outside the classroom and in free creative play and ‘practise time’ where children are encouraged to develop in their own way.

In Key Stage 1 and 2, we follow a Primary Core Knowledge Curriculum. Units of learning are organised around mastery of key concepts and ideas that have shaped – and will continue to shape – the world; pupils apply what they have learnt in class, and therefore demonstrate an ability to think logically and creatively. Our curriculum encapsulates multiple subjects into an expansive body of powerful knowledge. Pupils will learn to identify connections both within and across subjects, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of key concepts and their relevance to the world around them.

We devote extra time to Reading, Phonics and Maths. Our Maths Mastery program draws on the latest best practise from Singapore and China and ensures that children master key ideas and concepts before moving on too quickly. Extended reading time means that children are constantly exposed to a range of stories and tales from around the world.  We also use the Read Write Inc phonics program.