Curriculum

At Merlin Top Primary Academy, we are determined to provide the best quality teaching and learning for every child. We plan a full and rich curriculum which we feel meets the needs of our children. The curriculum is designed to enable everyone to achieve an excellent academic start in a creative, fun and hands-on environment. We use our broad and balanced curriculum to ensure the national curriculum is covered; alongside practical experiences to give real meaning to their learning and help pupil’s develop a deeper understanding of their topics.

In each year group teachers plan half termly book led units. Where appropriate,topics are used to link together the core subjects; English, maths and science.

In Maths, class teachers follow the ‘Maths No Problem’ approach which is the only Department for Education approved mastery programme. Maths is taught using a wide range of concrete, pictorial and abstract methods. Learning is extended with the teaching of reasoning and problem solving skills using White Rose Maths and NCETM resources.

Core Subjects

English

Maths

Science

Science is both fun and engaging at Merlin Top! We promote a practical led approach to teaching this subject as we want our children to explore and be a part of the learning process as much as possible.

The main topics covered from years one to six include;

• Animals including humans
• Living things and their habitats
• Plants
• Earth and Space
• Electricity
• Forces and magnets
• Evolution and inheritance
• Light
• Materials

We are currently developing our outdoor garden area too. The children are keen outdoor explorers and have done a great job so far.

Foundation Subjects

Foundation subjects are linked to core subjects where appropriate through an English led teaching model. This means that high quality texts are at the centre of the curriuclum at Merlin Top. Once the books were chosen, long term planning ensured key skills from each foundation subject were then mapped to ensure coverage of the National Curriculum. Foundation subjects are then supplemented with quality trips to ensure learning is of high quality and first hand experiences can be drawn upon.

Subjects Covered are:-

Understanding the World

• Geography
• History
• R.E.

Expressive Art & Design

• Art & Design
• Music

S.T.E.M.

• Science
• Technology
• Engineering
• Maths (Applied)
• Computing

If you would like any more information about the curriculum at Merlin Top, please feel free to book an appointment with a class teacher.