Intent

At Thomas Whitehead Academy we have spent time reviewing and considering the context of our school and the needs of our children and wider community. Our aim is to provide the children with exciting, relevant learning experiences, a greater knowledge of metacognition and developing growth mind set to increase aspirations in the multi- cultural society and world we live in. There are opportunities in the school and wider community; good links with the local Church and links with RE Inspired Church schools for Houghton Regis, that enhance the children’s experiences and learning.

At Thomas Whitehead, currently, we provide enrichment clubs and educational visits which include trips to All Saints Church and Houghton Regis Baptist Church.  A Nurture group is available for selected children to increase awareness and management of emotions as well as improve social interactions.  We designed and planned a reflection area in the school grounds with the children all taking part from all year groups.

 
Implementation
At Thomas Whitehead we have developed a curriculum map based on the Bedfordshire RE Agreed Syllabus and incorporated Understanding Christianity Units shaped on the school’s vision. It is coherent and sequential allowing children to build on and retain their knowledge and understanding of concepts from EYFS to KS2. We will enable children to look at religion and belief systematically, help children understand Christianity as a living and diverse faith and allow children to explore spiritual and ethical issues. We are also part of NATRE which supports us with CPD, subject knowledge and high quality resources which supplements our planning.

Impact
We will measure the impact of our curriculum through ensuring children are engaged by showing increased participation, confidence and contributing to lessons, offering thoughts to big questions through discussion and debate and demonstrating values through behaviour and interactions.  Pupils will have developed an awareness, which they can articulate about the diversity of faiths and people in the wider community.  Celebrating cultures and faiths provides links to our wider curriculum, British Values and knowledge of life outside of their own town.
Pupils will have developed the skills, knowledge and values required to prepare them for middle/secondary school. 

Thomas Whitehead’s School Prayer

Dear Lord

Thank you for showing us how to love (Year 1)

And for the hope from above. (Year 2)

On this day we pray and promise, (Year 3)

We care for the world you’ve trust upon us. (Year 4)

We will show respect wherever we go, (Year 3)

Thank you for the support you always show (Year 2)

Give us perseverance, to try our best (Year 4)

Guide us if we stop to rest. (Year 6)

Our adoration we give to you (Year 5)

We believe in letting our light shine through

Amen

Core Values

Values stated from the children

Vision