British National Curriculum
The National Curriculum (NC) is a range of knowledge and skill set taught in British public schools, which should be acquired by a student at a given educational stage. According to the British government, the new curriculum does not teach teachers how to “teach”, but focuses on key messages and skills, thus giving teachers the freedom to shape curriculum according to individual needs.
Non-public schools are not obliged to fully implement the British program. PBA benefits from the British program, choosing from it what is most valuable and corresponding to the philosophy and vision of our school.
Prior to commencing the school education, students go through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), called the Reception Class, which is equivalent of the Polish “zerówka”.
The program in Class 0 is divided into 6 areas:
- personal, social and emotional development
- communication and language
- ability to write and read
- maths
- physical development
- understanding the world
- art and design
For each subject, the learning objectives and educational requirements for each stage of education are being explicitly defined.
The philosophy of the British education system is that the national curriculum is just one element of a child’s education. It is the core of the school program. At school there is always time and place for extracurricular education and going beyond the mandatory program.
Teachers at PBA have high expectations towards students, however, they differentiate to individual needs.
The teachers of the UK program respect the fact that for many students English is not their mother tongue. Monitoring the progress of pupils takes into account their age, how long they have learned English, what was their previous experience and what was their language ability. They create learning plans that develop pupils’ language skills and support them in other English-speaking lessons. Educational content of the national curriculum is covered by a variety of subjects. English is both a class itself and a means of learning other subjects. Language fluency is necessary for succeeding in other lessons.
Students are taught clear speech, free communication, reasoning, asking questions, verifying comprehension, developing vocabulary, building knowledge, negotiating and evaluating. They also learn how to create correct, detailed descriptions and explanations, develop their knowledge through speculation, hypotheses and explore ideas. This allows them to clearly present their thinking as well as write down ideas.
Teachers develop writing and reading skills as well as try to show how reading can become a pleasure for students. The school promotes reading and sets ambitious reading goals at school and at home. Students learn to write longer texts while maintaining correct spelling and grammar. Understanding and broadening vocabulary are key to learning and advancing in all aspects of education.
Teachers use every opportunity to develop math skills in their students. Accurate counting and other mathematical skills are required to succeed in other areas of education.
In many lessons, teachers develop the ability to count and think mathematically so that students understand and appreciate the importance of math. Children are taught the use of arithmetic knowledge, units of measurement, estimation and more sophisticated calculations. They also learn the use of algebraic and geometric knowledge. They interpret collections, present and analyse data. They learn how to use algorithms, to break down tasks into several simpler steps. High quality natural education provides a basis for understanding the world through the fields of biology, chemistry and physics. Students learn that science has changed our lives and is essential for future prosperity in the world. The national curriculum aims to provide all students with the development of scientific knowledge and understanding of biology, chemistry and physics. This gives pupils the knowledge they need in order to understand the world around them.
Artistic and technical classes engage and inspire students. They are challenging and boost creativity. They help children to gain knowledge and encourage experimentation, creating their own art, craft and design. Students develop critical thinking skills and a more advanced understanding of art and design. They learn how technology and art shape our history and contribute to the development of culture, creativity and national wealth.
The purpose of artistic and technical activities is to create creative works, study ideas, master techniques of painting, sculpture and other forms of art as well as acquiring knowledge about great artists, creators and designers. Technical classes are hands-on activities. Using imagination, students design and create different items, taking into account their own and others’ needs. They use their knowledge of mathematics, nature, engineering or computer science. They evaluate the projects they have produced, try to understand their meaning, and what impact they might have on others. Students follow the following steps: design, creation, evaluation, technical knowledge. During the technical classes students also learn about healthy nutrition, prepare simple and healthy dishes.
Computer science classes are directly linked to science, math, and technology. Students learn how to use the computer and create a variety of programs. They use information and communication technologies to express their ideas. They learn logical thinking and create algorithms. They also learn how to use the technology responsibly and competently.
Geography lessons inspire students and build curiosity to explore the world. Students will discover different places in the world and various environments. They will learn about the processes that take place on Earth and deepen the understanding of the interactions between physical and human processes, as well as the formation and use of landscapes and environments.
History lessons encourage students to learn about the past. Students learn how to ask questions and think critically. They deliberate about the importance of evidence, assess the arguments and speak out loud about their own judgments. History helps students understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and the relationships between different groups and challenges that await them today.
During music lessons, students develop interest towards music, their musical talents, build confidence, creativity and sense of accomplishment. They learn how to compose music and distinguish musical canons.
The physical education program inspires all students to succeed in sports and other activities that require physical activity. It promotes health and fitness. It gives you the opportunity to compete, builds character and values such as honesty and respect.
The national curriculum was created to give students, parents and teachers clear information about the students’ skills at each stage. More details on the learning program at each stage of the school are available under the bookmarks on our website.