We believe that learning only begins in the classroom – there are so many more opportunities where learning can be deepened, experiences can be lived and as such, rich learning experiences are planned and implemented across the curriculum and are used as a means for pupils to apply their knowledge and skills in a deep, creative and immersive manner.
This is in line with our Vision:
‘Every child who attends our school can expect, and will receive an excellent standard of education
- one that enables them to shine as individuals
- make a positive contribution
- and reach their full potential.’
Our curriculum is enriched with exciting trips, (including residentials), inspirational visitors and experience days which deepen learning and understanding, Inspire mornings where the children can work with their parents, choirs and can enjoy being part of performances as well as being inspired by dramatic productions as well as gallery exhibitions. To best prepare our children for life in modern Britain, we celebrate diversity, protected characteristics and build cultural capital through a planned calendar of events.
As a school, we provide an extensive, and growing, range of after-school and lunchtime clubs that change on a termly basis, offering different options that include sports: such as dance, football, netball, rugby, dodgeball and rounders: as well as gardening, singing, art, piano and guitar. These clubs allow the children to explore their interests and develop a wide range of skills. School staff and some outside
agencies lead these activities. We have a packed fixture list of sporting events for pupils of all ages and regularly compete against other Trust schools.
Our pupils are encouraged to take on aspects of responsibility and leadership. We encourage our pupils to take on roles and responsibilities in school as part of their learning.
Our School Council consists of elected representatives from each class. They attend regular School Council meetings with staff, and discuss priorities and any creative ideas that the children bring forward from their classes. They also have the opportunity to be part of the Waterton Children’s Parliament and to meet with pupil representatives from across the Trust. Additionally we have children who form our Eco Council, our Reading Ambassadors and our Historians – all opportunities for children to take on high profile leadership roles across the school.
This only gives a flavour of the rich diet that children are offered in their time at Normanton Common but is a good indicator of our desire to offer as wide and varied a menu we can to inspire the children, to deepen their learning and to help prepare them for the next stage of their education and life beyond.