St Thomas’ Catholic Primary School Whole School Intent Statement

KCSP Statement of Curriculum Intent

I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full John 10: Chapter 10. V 10. Inspired by Jesus Christ’s example and the Gospel values of love, joy and compassion, we nurture and develop the whole child so that each unique individual grows constantly in confidence, and has the knowledge, skills and self-esteem to achieve their true potential.

All children will access a rich, ambitious, challenging curriculum; one that is broad, balanced and relevant, fostering curiosity, creativity and a life-long love of learning. It will prepare them well for each stage of education, employment or training and enable them, as educated citizens, to contribute to creating a better world.

St Thomas' Catholic Primary School

St Thomas' curriculum is centred on opening up the world for our children, developing the whole child in Christian values and virtues through our Catholic faith. Our curriculum is coherently designed to enrich our children with the knowledge, skills and experiences to become independent life-long learners who are ambitious for new challenges. We ensure that our curriculum focuses on our children being effective communicators and that we create and maintain an exciting and stimulating learning environment. We provide opportunities for our children to learn how to live a healthy and productive life.

We do this by:

• engaging the children through interesting topics and hands-on activities 

• making meaningful links between subjects

• developing children’s skills, knowledge and understanding of a range of themes and concepts eg equality

• making effective connections to the real world • helping children to think creatively and solve problems

• developing children’s capacities to work independently and collaboratively • enabling children to make choices about their learning

• taking account of children’s interests.

Our approach will enable the children to :

• develop to the best of their abilities

• to find their passions and interests

• to facilitate acquisition of knowledge, skills and understanding

• to develop spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, physically & morally

• assist children in becoming independent, responsible, productive, confident & considerate members of the local and global community

• have a positive attitude so children enjoy school

• acquire a solid basis for lifelong learning

• have continuity and progression in their learning

• contribute positively within a culturally diverse society

Catholic Social Teaching

Across all areas of our curriculum we have made links to the eight principles of Catholic Social Teaching:

1. Human Dignity - we are all made in God's image.

2. The Principle of Participation - we all have a part to play.

3. Common Good - for the good of individuals and ALL.

4. Solidarity - walking together.

5. Preferential care for the poor and the vulnerable - protecting those in need.

6. Stewardship - being responsible guardians of the Earth.

7. The Universal Destination of Goods.

8. Subsidiarity - empowering communities.