Foundation Studies Curriculum Statement

Intent

The Year 7 Foundation Studies Department is a vibrant, innovative and forward-thinking

area of the school. The department delivers core subjects (English, Maths and Science)
alongside an exciting and creative thematic programme of History, Geography, RE and
Citizenship, all taught by one teacher in a main base classroom. The curriculum is further
enhanced by Non-Core FS subjects such as Art, German and Music, which are taught outside
of the main base.

Our vision is simple; ‘Achievement for All’ alongside instilling an ethos of ‘Lifelong Learning’
accomplished through excellent teaching and out of classroom enrichment experiences. We
believe we provide a unique and bespoke integrated approach to our student’s first year at
Lordswood Boy’s School.

Core Objectives
We aim to ensure that:
 We offer a high quality ambitious Foundation Studies programme that maximises
progress in Literacy, Numeracy and the ‘Thematic’ curriculum.
 All students are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to achieve
academically across the Core and Thematic range of subjects.
 All students are supported and appropriately challenged to ensure they make
excellent progress.
 The Foundation Studies programme prepares students for the next stage of their
education in KS3, KS4 and beyond.
 We provide a broad, balanced and creative approach to the programme to promote
growth in students’ confidence, character, self-esteem and leadership.

Implementation

The FS department strives to implement this through a carefully co-ordinated knowledge

rich Core and Thematic curriculum. Students explore and examine issues important to
human society. In doing so, they investigate issues using a range of media and methods,
critical analysis and interpretation information, forming and communicating reasoned
judgements based on evidence. They value an exploration of culture and ideas from the
widest sources including literature, music, and art. Creativity is key and is nurtured
alongside developing critical sophistication. This improves self-esteem and confidence in
students’ literacy skills, such as reading, writing, speaking and listening. The skills and
understanding nurtured in Foundation Studies equips young people to play an active, well
informed role in the community, and prepares students for their academic journey in KS3,
KS4 and beyond.

This is achieved through a weekly timetable comprising:

4 hours of English and Maths, 3 hours of Science and 6 hours of Thematic (comprising
Geography, History, Religious Education and Citizenship) to promote enquiry based learning.
In addition, we have a weekly Literacy hour where we build upon basic skills and grammar
to cover the gaps that have arisen due to Covid 19 disruptions to schooling.
We have a unique skills and knowledge test that we encourage all boys to revise for each
week. This can range from recalling the periodic table to naming musical instruments.

Our assessment programme is varied and encompasses all areas of communication to

ensure no student feels overwhelmed by exams or a battery of tests. This can range from a
group presentation, using IT skills or formal academic writing.
All classes are mixed ability taught by experienced practitioners from a wide variety of
backgrounds ranging from KS1 – KS5. There is a collaborative approach to planning and
assessment with regular reviews of systems and the curriculum which has to evolve
consistently to meet the needs of students.
Within the department there are two Lead Professionals who have responsibility for
Academic and Pastoral issues respectively. This enables a smooth and overarching oversight
of every student. These are further supported by two teachers in the team.
Learning takes place outside of the classroom where possible and students enjoy competing
with each other to gain extra rewards such as time in the Games room.

Impact

 75% students targeted to achieve Meeting across all FS subjects. 68% achieved this
2020/2021.
 Attendance in line with National average which demonstrates desire to engage with
the FS curriculum.