Our Curriculum

On this page you can learn all about the lessons and subjects that make up the curriculum here at Tenacres.

Curriculum Information for Parents

Find out what your children will be learning this term:

Mathematics

Using the whiteboard to solve maths problems

Children start school with a variety of mathematical experience and expertise. Throughout their years in school we build on these foundations to achieve our aim in equipping them with the knowledge they will need in the future.

All classes follow the guidelines set for the National Numeracy Strategy with children working as a whole class, a group or individually. We use a variety of mathematical resources and approaches to ensure that the requirements of the Early Learning Outcomes - Mathematical Development and National Curriculum in Number, Algebra, Shape, Space and Data Handling are appropriately delivered according to individual needs. These include the use of practical apparatus, games, calculators and computers. Several published schemes are used including Nuffield, Letts and Ginn to provide the full range of National Curriculum work.

English

Story writing

Reading skills are taught and practised in Literacy Hour during whole class time, using Big Books and in group guided-reading sessions, using sets of books chosen to suit the needs of specific groups. Children are also encouraged to take an individual reading book home each evening.

Every classroom has an attractive reading area housing a wide range of books from which to choose. Children often select their own book, but at times the choice may be teacher directed.

An individual Tenacres Reading Record Booklet is provided in which parent, pupil or teacher may comment on a child's efforts and achievements with particular books. The overall progress of children being carefully monitored by their teacher. We set and expect high standards of achievement in writing. Grammar, punctuation, spelling and handwriting are taught throughout the school during Literacy Hour. Opportunities for writing are many and various, including stories, poetry, letter-writing, reports, news and the results of investigations.

Science

Learning how to light up a bulb

At Tenacres we introduce our pupils to a wide range of scientific experiences, which fosters their curiosity and interest in the world around them.

Science is taught through topics which have been chosen to link with National Curriculum targets and the children's interests. Science is well resourced with equipment and reference material, enabling all children to experience a wide range of practical activities. Our school grounds provide a valuable resource for Environmental Education. There are opportunities for children to become involved in caring for and improving the school and its grounds and gardens. Children are encouraged to develop an awareness and appreciation of both school and local environments.

Geography

Looking at the world around us

Through the teaching of Geography we aim to stimulate children's interest and awareness of the earth and its peoples, beginning with an appreciation of the immediate environment. We generate responses and foster caring attitudes towards the children's own locality, the wider world and its population.

At Key Stage 1, Geography forms an important part of cross curricular projects, the school grounds providing a valuable resource for observations and hands-on experiences.

At Key Stage 2 our aim is to further develop skills and extend the knowledge gained in the early years. We liaise closely with our pyramid schools to ensure consistency and progression.

History

A war-time soldier

History is a foundation subject in the National Curriculum for all children from 5 to 9 years old. We aim to create a sense of excitement about the past and to help the children understand how the past has affected our lives today.

At Key Stage 1, history is taught through historical topics or general topics with cross-curricular links. It may arise from stories or events. We believe the children learn more from first hand experiences. We provide these through drama, the use of artefacts, pictures, photographs, visits and listening to older people talking about their own childhood.

At Key Stage 2, we aim to foster an interest in, and an understanding of the impact of History, helping children to understand themselves and their role in society, and promoting an understanding of other peoples and countries of the world. This involves children developing a sense of time and an awareness of both continuity and change. They are encouraged to think critically, and to recognise and use a range of historical sources effectively. Visits by outside speakers and visits to historical sites form an integral part of the history curriculum.

Information Technology

Using one of our many computers

We have a computer network suite which contains sixteen PCs with flat screen monitors. This room allows a whole class to interact at the same time. Each classroom is equipped with a PC for cross curricular use which is linked to the school network and has whole school internet access.

Tenacres also boasts interactive whiteboards in each classroom. This new technology is providing our children with a whole new outlook to ICT and enables teachers to capitalise on the technology to support their teaching in all subjects. We also have Interactive Microscopes and a vast range of software for all curriculum areas.

Music

Composing music on percussion instruments

We have an excellent reputation for Music provision at Tenacres. Each class is able to use the facilities of a fully equipped Music Room, with a selection of percussion, wind, string and keyboard instruments. The first year children also have their own instrument tables within the classroom environment. In years 3 and 4 opportunities are given for the children to learn to play the recorder, the guitar and to sing in the school choir.

A performance by the Worcestershire Music Service String Quartet. They performed a mixture of popular music for the whole school. They explained about their instruments and encouraged the children to participate.

Musical performances of different kinds take place throughout the year. These include performances by visiting musicians as well as performances by our own children at music festivals and in school of musical plays and concerts, to which a variety of audiences are invited.

By the time the children leave Tenacres they have been exposed to a wide repertoire of music, ranging from the traditional to that of the present day.

Design Technology

Making fascinating models in DT

We are proud of the range of Design Technology activities that all children experience in their time at Tenacres (from simple cards to working models) because it allows each child the opportunity to develop their own creative individuality. At Tenacres we prepare pupils for the future by helping them to use their ever growing repertoire of skills and knowledge to generate design ideas, to be realistic about how to achieve their designs and to reflect on ways to improve them. At all stages we actively encourage children to consider the quality of their work and health and safety issues. We ensure they develop practical skills by providing a wide variety of materials and equipment. These include sheet materials, fabrics, construction kits, tools, workstations, baking kitchen and mobile oven, thereby allowing each child opportunities to be creative in food, textiles and construction.

Art and Design

Artistic talent on display

Children work individually, in groups and as a whole class on carefully planned activities which allow them to explore different media and develop control of a wide range of tools and techniques. They are encouraged to experiment with, and use the visual elements in their work and are introduced to the work of artists and craftspeople from a variety of cultures both past and present. Evaluation and reflection on both the children's own work and that of other people is seen as an important aspect of the development of art appreciation and this is an integral part of art teaching at Tenacres. We are proud of our specialist Art Room where whole classes can enjoy practical, creative activities. Children have the opportunity to work with professional artists and visit Art Galleries whilst at Tenacres.

Modern Foreign Languages

Learning French with Miss Leigh,
from Ipsley Middle School

Although non-compulsory at present, MFL is a subject rapidly growing in popularity. Children in Year 4 at Tenacres have weekly lessons focusing mainly on French, but including a range of languages such as Spanish, German and Italian. Children become familiar with the languages and learn basic phrases through songs, drama and role-play, books and ICT.

Throughout other year groups, children at Tenacres are introduced to other languages in a more informal way, through incidental language, such as answering the register as well as celebrating international festivals including the festival of Mardi Gras!

Physical Education

PE lessons in the hall

The school enjoys the use of a good sized sports hall, three playgrounds (two marked with teaching grids), a playing field and a wide range of apparatus and equipment.

Key Stage 1 pupils take part in Games, Dance and Gymnastics.

Key Stage 2 pupils continue working in these areas with additional opportunities for Swimming and Athletics.

Close links are maintained with Redditch Sports in Action Sport Unit - each year receiving an input of teaching. KS2 pupils participate in Redditch First Schools Sports Festivals and work closely with the Redditch Sports Partnership. Pupils who succeed in out-of-school activities are encouraged to show their sporting trophies/awards and to display their sporting talents in Achievement Assemblies. Pupils are presented with braids/awards for school swimming achievements.

Religious Education

In accordance with the Education Act of 1988, Religious Education is a compulsory part of the curriculum at Tenacres. The teaching reflects that in the main, the religious traditions of this country are Christian, whilst taking account of the teaching and practice of other religions. The aims of R.E. are to provide the children with a knowledge and understanding of Christianity and awareness of other religions, and to see how these beliefs influence individuals and society. This will in turn allow the child to begin searching for meaning or purpose in his or her life, and consequently to grow both spiritually and morally.

All children attend a daily Assembly. These can be in a variety of forms: the whole school, class, or lower or upper school joining together. There are opportunities to recognise various achievements, celebrate festivals and seasons, listen to visiting speakers or to enjoy class presentations. The majority of assemblies are led by the Headteacher or other members of staff. Parents may ask for their children to be withdrawn from R.E. or Assemblies, but in doing so we would ask the parents to discuss the implications with the Headteacher.

P.S.H.E. and Citizenship

We have a very strong emphasis on childrens' emotional health at Tenacres. This is an essential part of the curriculum, providing a fundamental base for learning and living. It focuses on personal independence, life and social skills. It permeates many areas at the appropriate level for the child. In the early years children learn to play and work together. Stories are told about telling the truth, friendships and helping others. Later, values are taught, for example, respecting the property of others, keeping promises, accepting responsibility. Discussions on bullying, cheating and dishonesty all help the child to be aware of the healthy ethos within our school.

We have a popular Pupils Council, with elected representatives from each class in Years 1 to 4. They meet weekly to discuss issues affecting the whole school and plan events for fund-raising and community events.

Through weekly 'Circle Time' sessions we aim to develop a child's self-esteem and confidence. It provides a relaxed and secure situation in which the children have the opportunity to express their feelings.

Special Educational Needs

At Tenacres we see special educational needs as a priority. This is reflected in the extra staff employed, and resources available, to assist the learning of our more and less able children. We have a number of Teaching Assistants who work with small groups or individuals under the guidance of the class teacher.

We have developed strong links with support agencies, pre-school organisations and medical services, and receive help from them when and where necessary. Our open-door policy ensures parents have access to information regarding their children and are involved in the monitoring and assessment process. It is only by working in partnership that all pupils with special educational needs can reach their full potential.

We have no pupils with disabilities at the present time and Governors would address their needs as and when required. The building is on three split levels and would need extensive alterations to cater for disabled pupils. We have a comprehensive Disability Access Plan which is being implemented in line with current needs and as budget permits.

Gifted and Talented

Teachers identify pupils who show exceptional ability in academic subjects or show particular talent in Art, Music, Dance or P.E. Their needs are catered for by extension activities, or opportunities to practice, perform and extend their skills.