Lower School Curriculum

Curriculum Summary (Intent, Implementation and Impact)

Preston Manor Lower School’s curriculum is driven by Ambition, Responsibility and Excellence, ensuring all pupils have access to powerful knowledge and cultural capital. The curriculum is ambitious, knowledge-rich and carefully sequenced so that pupils build secure foundations, revisit key concepts and deepen understanding over time. Literacy and oracy are central, with explicit teaching of vocabulary and structured opportunities for pupils to articulate, reason and build on each other’s ideas.

Teaching is informed by evidence-based practice, including Rosenshine’s Principles, and delivered through well-sequenced plans supported by Kapow, Purple Mash and teacher-designed medium-term planning. Lessons build on prior knowledge, use purposeful questioning and structured talk, and are adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, particularly those with SEND and those who are disadvantaged. Leaders monitor implementation closely to ensure consistency and high expectations across the school.

As a result, pupils develop secure knowledge, strong communication skills and positive learning behaviours. They make good progress, apply learning confidently, and become active, resilient and reflective learners who are well-prepared for the next stage of education and to contribute positively to society.