Downe Primary School

Here at Downe Primary we follow the International Primary Curriculum.  You will find the programmes of study for each year group on their year group page but for more information head over to: https://fieldworkeducation.com/curriculums/primary-years

How do we implement our curriculum?

The curriculum is implemented through thematic topics chosen from the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). These are designed with progression of knowledge and mastery of skills at its core. We prioritise development of “entry points” at the start of a topic and then build upon these as the learning unfolds.  These “entry points” are reviewed annually with the cohort so that we can ensure that the experiences we offer continue to resonate with children. All subjects are linked, where possible, to these themes – including music, art, science, core texts, reading and writing to provide the opportunity to make links and ensure depth of understanding.

We offer a range of enriching, memorable experiences so that Downe children benefit from a full range of academic, spiritual, moral, social and cultural activities, including those on the ‘Pioneer Passport’. These experiences take place at school, in and around the local area of Downe, London and Nationally. (Year 6).

By the time they leave us at the end of KS2 a Downe child will be a confident individual who is actively and enthusiastically engaged on a journey of learning. Through our compassion curriculum, teaching of PHSEC, RHE, Personal goals, Educate and celebrate, British values, school council, Head pupils and other roles within the school -  a Red Hill child will understand how to contribute positively to their community and the wider society.

Compassionate Curriculum

We know that to succeed young people need our compassion and at Downe we will ensure that we maintain compassion by providing excellent training and support to staff and by using a whole school approach.

1.     Relationship building, safety, connection and assurance of wellbeing (safe)

2.     Emotional and behavioural self-regulation (happy)

3.     Competency of social and personal skills and academic success (learning)

These principles foster positive relationships between pupils and all staff, and support pupils to become more resilient.

Personal Goals

The personal goals refer to those individual qualities and dispositions we believe children will find essential in the 21st century.  They help to develop those qualities that will enable children to be at ease with the continually changing context of their lives. There are personal goals for enquiry, resilience, principles, communication, thoughtfulness, cooperation, respect and adaptability.

As an example of some of the IPC Learning Goals for Adaptability, children, through their study of the IPC will learn to:

Know about a range of views, cultures and traditions

• Be able to consider and respect the views, cultures and traditions of other people
• Be able to cope with unfamiliar situations
• Be able to approach tasks with confidence
• Be able to suggest and explore new roles, ideas, and strategies
• Be able to move between conventional and more fluid forms of thinking
• Be able to be at ease with themselves in a variety of situations