Connected 

We ensure that pupil knowledge is explicitly connected across subjects in order to develop a rich schema. Through systematic revisiting of concepts and substantive knowledge, we embed that knowledge into their long-term memory, making it easily accessible for future learning. 

Cumulative

Our cumulative curriculum starts in the EYFS where we have identified and ensured foundational knowledge is made explicit and taught with rigor. Our approaches to a strong foundations for our pupils include; daily Systematic Synthetic Phonics scheme (continued into KS2 where required), daily Number Factual Fluency programme, daily handwriting and spelling instruction. 

Coherent 

The CUSP curriculum is built around the 9 Big Ideas e.g. Sustainability which weave their way through all subjects as well as each subject having the substantive knowledge and concepts clearly defined and intentionally planned for in each unit. Each subject has a specific disciplinary body of knowledge and skills to be learnt. We teach children to ‘think like a scientist’ and ‘talk like a scientist’ in their lessons. . We have chosen to teach some subjects following other curricula. The implementation of each follows our pedagogical model.

Evidence Informed-Simple Model of Memory 

• Breaking learning down into small steps
• Explicit vocabulary instruction 
• A focus on direct instruction, so success is not reliant on background knowledge 
• Retrieval practice 
• Generative learning - thinking hard 

Our Pedagogical model (CEEAAC) aligns with Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction