At English Martyrs’ RC Primary School, our curriculum is deeply rooted in our mission, vision and values, and inspired by our faith. Guided by our commitment to follow Christ’s example, we strive to nurture children who live with love, respect and service to others. We believe that every child is created in the image and likeness of God, with unique gifts and talents to develop and share.

Our curriculum is therefore designed not only to achieve academic excellence, but to form the whole child—spiritually, morally, socially and intellectually. Through rich and meaningful learning experiences, we aim to inspire a love of learning, a strong sense of responsibility and the confidence to make a positive difference in the world. In living out our school motto each day, our children are encouraged to grow in faith, show compassion and aspire to be the very best that they can be.

The National Curriculum is divided into the core subjects – English, Mathematics and Science – and the foundation subjects: Design and Technology, Computing, History, Geography, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education and Modern Foreign Languages (Key Stage 2).

Religious Education is a central part of our curriculum as a Catholic school and is taught in line with Diocesan guidance. Please refer to our School Prospectus for further details.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers children in Reception. Seven areas of learning are covered at this stage:

• Communication and Language
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Physical Development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

Throughout the Foundation Stage, children’s development across these areas is assessed and recorded. The EYFS Profile is completed at the end of Reception and shared with parents in the end-of-year report. These assessments support teachers in planning learning that meets each child’s needs and supports their progress.

Key Stage One consists of two classes for children aged 5–7. Throughout this stage, children are encouraged to become independent and self-confident learners. They develop important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, cooperating with others and resolving simple conflicts. Children are also encouraged to take responsibility for their own actions from an early age.

We aim to make our school a place where children feel happy, safe and valued, and therefore motivated to do their best.

Alongside National Curriculum subjects, we provide a range of wider opportunities, including music and after-school sports clubs. We are committed to developing the whole child.

Key Stage Two consists of four classes for pupils aged 7–11. During this stage, we continue to build on the skills, knowledge and interests developed in Key Stage One. We encourage pupils to develop a caring attitude towards others, an understanding of their responsibilities within the wider world, and an awareness of how to look after their own health and wellbeing.

After-school sports clubs are offered throughout the year for each year group. Year 6 pupils are invited to take part in a residential trip, where they experience a range of outdoor and adventurous activities such as rock climbing, high ropes, orienteering, swimming, kayaking, archery and team challenges.

A variety of musical opportunities are also provided. Pupils in Years 4 and 5 learn the ukulele, and in Year 6, children perform alongside other local schools at Rochester Cathedral’s annual carol service.

We endeavour to provide a wide range of enriching experiences both within the curriculum and through extra-curricular opportunities for all pupils.

Further information about the content of our curriculum for each subject and year group can be found in our individual subject curriculum statements, which outline how knowledge and skills develop progressively across the school.