Our Curriculum
At Turner Free School (TFS), we are committed to providing an ambitious, broad and balanced curriculum that enables every pupil to achieve academic success, develop their character and prepare for life beyond school.
Our curriculum is designed to meet or exceed the expectations of the National Curriculum in England, ensuring that pupils develop the knowledge, skills and understanding required for their next stages of education, training and employment.
At Key Stage 3, pupils study a broad range of academic, creative and practical subjects, providing a strong foundation for further study. At Key Stage 4, pupils follow a curriculum that maintains a strong academic core, alongside a range of GCSE and vocational qualifications that reflect their interests, aspirations and future pathways.
Reading, literacy and vocabulary development are prioritised across all subjects. Our curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils build on prior knowledge, deepen their understanding and develop the confidence to apply their learning in different contexts.
We are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who are disadvantaged, can access and succeed within our curriculum. High expectations are maintained for every pupil, with appropriate adaptations and additional support provided where necessary.
Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE)
PSHE is taught through distinct, timetabled lessons, ensuring that all pupils receive a planned and progressive programme of personal development education.
Our PSHE curriculum includes statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), delivered in accordance with current Department for Education guidance.
Through PSHE, pupils develop the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions, maintain healthy relationships, manage risks, protect their physical and mental wellbeing and prepare for adult life.
Citizenship education is delivered explicitly through our PSHE curriculum. This includes teaching pupils about democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, tolerance, rights and responsibilities, and the role of citizens in modern Britain.
Citizenship education is further reinforced through assemblies, the wider curriculum, enrichment opportunities and participation in school and community life.
Religious Education
Religious Education (RE) forms part of our curriculum and supports pupils in developing an understanding of different religions, beliefs, cultures and worldviews. It contributes to pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and promotes mutual respect and understanding.
Parents and carers have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education. Requests should be made directly to the school.
Personal Development and Enrichment
Our taught curriculum is complemented by a comprehensive programme of personal development and enrichment.
Through assemblies, educational visits, careers education, extracurricular activities and our Turner 25 (T25) programme, pupils are encouraged to develop their interests, broaden their experiences and become responsible, confident and active members of society.
These opportunities support pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and prepare them for life in modern Britain.
Curriculum Information and Policies
Further information about the curriculum taught in each year group, including subject content and progression, can be found in our published curriculum overviews.
Our curriculum is supported by relevant school and trust policies, including:
Curriculum and Teaching Policy
Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) Policy
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Policy
Equality and Diversity Policy
Accessibility Plan
Parents and carers who would like further information about any aspect of the curriculum, including the content taught in individual subjects, are encouraged to contact the school.
Curriculum information: Our Curriculum
PSHE information: PSHE Curriculum
Trust policies: Turner Schools Policies
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