Stansfield Academy

A strong math education lays the foundation for comprehending the world, thinking logically, appreciating the beauty and power of mathematics, and experiencing enjoyment and curiosity in the subject. Our goal is to equip our students with not only the knowledge of math but also the practical applications that allow them to become active and productive members of society.

At Stansfield Academy, we adopt a subject-focused approach to teaching mathematics. We utilise the White Rose Maths curriculum throughout every stage, ensuring consistency in learning through the integration of concrete, visual, and abstract methods. The curriculum also enables students to build on prior knowledge by organising similar units together across the year, providing a platform for further growth and revision in subsequent years.

In key stages 1 and 2, lessons are customised to each student's ability level. They are taught by class teachers through individual or small group instruction, allowing for a more in-depth learning experience.

Classes start with individual revision and practice of core math concepts (addition, subtraction, word problems, etc.). The main learning objective is then covered, including a review of relevant previous knowledge and demonstration of various question types. Students work on adapted tasks, designed to meet their individual ability levels, to achieve the learning objective. Additional challenges come in the form of an extension activity, encouraging students to apply their newfound knowledge and skills in diverse settings, and to explain their answers. 

At Stansfield Academy, students are equipped with an array of resources to assist in their learning journey. These resources, such as interlocking cubes, Numicon, and multiplication grids are made readily available to all students in every session to aid in grasping new and varied concepts. We foster a sense of independence among our students by allowing them to select the resources they feel most comfortable with, which in turn, helps boost their confidence and sense of accomplishment in mathematics.

At Stansfield Academy, our art and design program strikes a balance between honing practical skills and fostering creativity. We expose students to a diverse range of artistic styles and encourage them to experiment and express themselves through their art. Our curriculum helps students develop their appreciation and evaluation of art, expanding their understanding of personal and collective interpretations of the world. By embracing their individuality through creative expression, students gain confidence in self-expression and acquire the skills necessary to actively engage with the world.

At Stansfield Academy, our music program aims to expose students to a broad range of instruments, both tuned and untuned, and music technology. They will have opportunities to listen to and appreciate music from a variety of composers, genres, and cultures throughout history, and to use music to express their emotions, creativity, and individuality. By engaging in music, students can improve their social skills, such as listening to others and working collaboratively, while also developing their confidence and self-esteem.

For students with a specific interest in music, we aim to offer to help them grow in their musicality and confidence. Our program provides a safe space for students to explore their creativity, express their emotions through music, and learn about the positive impact that music can have on their mental health and well-being.

At Stansfield Academy, the history curriculum fosters curiosity and critical thinking, enabling students to build a deeper understanding of the present by engaging with the past. It promotes social and cultural diversity and encourages students to make informed judgements based on different arguments. The curriculum values tolerance and respect, and provides students with the opportunity to learn from history.

Key Stage 1 and 2 students study early civilizations and the development of the UK through invasion and conquest. The curriculum emphasises the skills of a historian, such as thinking, researching, analysing, and communicating. By analysing historical events and the lives of people in the past, students develop skills to engage with the world with respect and tolerance.

Geography at Primary phase

Geography is an inquiry-based subject that encourages students to understand the world around them and their place in it. At Stansfield Academy, we aim to foster a lifelong fascination with geography and promote understanding of diverse places, people, and environments, including physical and human processes. Current events such as climate change, war, and the energy crisis are crucial for students to learn about and respond to.

Our curriculum is delivered in both cross-curricular and stand alone lessons. Learning outcomes are clear and assessed regularly to ensure students are making progress. Quizzes are used to aid retention of new information. Outcomes are documented in books, showcasing a well-rounded curriculum and students' acquisition of key knowledge and skills. These skills are transferable to other subjects and enhance students' understanding of the world and their role in it.

Religious Education at Stansfield Academy prepares students for a multi-cultural, global world by offering a comprehensive, diverse curriculum that builds awareness of various faith and belief systems, both in the UK and beyond. Students develop an understanding of the impact of religious beliefs on behaviour, appearance, and culture, promoting sensitivity and consideration towards others. Through studying major religions and lesser-known faiths, students become knowledgeable of religious symbols and practices, reinforced by visits to places of worship. Discussions, debates, and examination of different religious views enable students to articulate their own beliefs and values. The Religious Education curriculum covers all Key Stages and is taught weekly, following the Devon and Torbay Agreed Syllabus in Key Stages 1 and 2. The aim of Religious Education is to support spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development and foster an understanding of British values.

Stansfield Academy prioritises the diverse needs of the children in its Physical Education. Our goal is to expand students' understanding of PE and its real-world applications, fostering positive attitudes towards competition through engaging activities. We strive to promote a healthy lifestyle and improve communication skills through group and partner work.

In Key Stage 1 and 2, fundamental skills and holistic learning behaviours such as personal, social, cognitive, creative, physical, and health and fitness are developed and reinforced through the PE curriculum. Physical Education is taught to class groups from Year 3 to Year 6 as a standalone subject, with skills building upon each year for personalised progression.

Physical Education classes utilise both indoor and outdoor facilities, with units taught by class teachers. Our focus is on building confidence in Physical Education, demonstrating that it encompasses more than just team sports and winning. Each lesson is tailored to the students by the teacher and teaching assistants support students to feel comfortable and confident in the learning. As students progress through the school, they will further develop fundamental skills and social communication behaviours through team games and activities, with opportunities to discover new physical interests and hobbies in their environment.

At Stansfield Academy, our PSHCE curriculum provides meaningful and relevant experiences for students, with a strong focus on emotional literacy, resilience-building, and overall mental and physical well-being. We strive to integrate PSHCE into all aspects of our students' personal and academic growth, helping them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their individuality. Our PSHCE curriculum is personalized to each student's needs, ensuring that any gaps in learning due to transitions or absences are covered. Our teachers tailor lessons to the students' learning preferences, academic level, and use additional resources as needed.

We have high expectations for student progress and achievement in PSHCE and by the end of KS2 they will have developed the emotional language needed to express their feelings and empathise with others, supporting their mental and physical health. PSHCE skills and knowledge are built upon each year through the PSHCE Association program, preparing students for successful integration into society and providing direction for their future as they enter adulthood.