"Curriculum is how we change the child through what is in their head."

Christine Counsell

Our Curriculum

Our curriculum has been carefully designed to nurture the whole child — academically, socially, and morally. It is the full experience we offer and supports every aspect of a child’s development. Through our curriculum, we aim to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and values they need to thrive in an everchanging world, whilst inspiring a love of learning, enabling all children to achieve their full potential.

Our curriculum is ambitious, meticulously sequenced and designed specifically for our pupils and community. Rather than following an 'off-the-shelf' model, we continually review and refine our bespoke curriculum, using current educational research, assessment information and pupil voice to ensure learning remains relevant, engaging and highly effective.

Substantive knowledge, disciplinary knowledge and vocabulary are carefully identified and cumulatively built from EYFS to Year 6 through meticulously sequencing. Learning is deliberately structured so that new knowledge builds upon prior learning, enabling pupils to make connections, strengthen understanding and retain key concepts over time. Through carefully planned opportunities to revisit, retrieve, connect and apply previously taught knowledge in increasingly complex contexts, pupils know more, remember more and can use their learning confidently across the curriculum. Reading, language development and oracy underpin learning across all subjects, helping pupils become articulate, knowledgeable and thoughtful communicators.

Our curriculum is purposely enriched by the unique heritage, landscape and culture of our local area, but also deliberately broadens pupils' horizons through weaving diversity into all aspects of its design. Through studies of different cultures, communities and significant local and global events, pupils build cultural capital, develop respect, understanding and appreciation of the world around them. Technology is used purposefully to enhance learning, foster creativity and remove barriers, ensuring all pupils can access the same ambitious curriculum.

Our curriculum is rooted in our five core values: 

• Curiosity drives discovery – We instil a love of learning by encouraging pupils to ask questions, explore ideas and seek understanding. 

• Creativity flourishes – We nurture imagination and innovation, enabling children to express themselves and think beyond boundaries. 

• Collaboration is key – We teach the importance of teamwork, empathy, and respect, preparing pupils to work effectively with others. 

• Challenge is embraced – We create a culture where resilience and perseverance are celebrated, helping pupils to overcome obstacles and achieve their best. 

• Community matters – We instil a sense of belonging and responsibility, ensuring pupils value diversity and contribute positively to society. 

As a result of our curriculum, pupils leave Highfields with secure and connected knowledge, a love of learning, intellectual curiosity, confidence and strong personal values. They are equipped with the knowledge, skills and character needed to flourish at the next stage of their education and contribute positively to life in modern Britain.

Read our full curriculum rationale below: 

Curriculum Subjects

Information about each area of our curriculum can be found on the subject pages below:

If you cannot find the answer to your question, or would like more information about our curriculum, please contact us at admin@highfields.essex.sch.uk or by using the contact details on the 'Contact Us' page.