VISION
The Rivers Academy Year 7 model is a coherent and well-sequenced curriculum. Students are able to secure and apply fundamental knowledge and power skills which help them to develop an open and positive mindset. A culture of learning permeates all aspects.
Using authentic real-world opportunities and experiences to enhance and deepen learning, students are actively engaged in their education and their future. Students establish a strong sense of purpose and thrive in an ever-changing world.
INTENT
In Year 7, Applied Learning has been weaved into the new Year 7 model. Combining the best of primary and secondary practice, the Year 7 curriculum provides our students with a smaller staff team than traditional models which aids a seamless transition into Year 7. By doing so we prioritise students self-worth through collaboration and fostering meaningful relationships.
Each half term has a ‘driving question’ that is linked to different strands of the power skills, which allows pupils to develop the different aspects of the skills across a range of subjects. By taking this approach, our students will have a consistent approach to skill development and many opportunities to practise them in order for these to become habits used in everyday lives.
In year 8, our students have the opportunity to explore a relevant concept, issue or problem through interdisciplinary assignments. This enables them to connect new knowledge and deeper understanding to real life experiences.
Through investigating a ‘driving question’, students work collaboratively on assignments that are meaningful and relevant to their culture, their lives and futures, and develop the power skills.
Throughout each assignment, students are given numerous opportunities to reflect on their work and learning. By developing ways to critique and feedback effectively, students continually strive for excellence in their personal development. In addition, teachers will assess progression through knowledge and skills by facilitating self reflection and providing a summative assessment of identified skills at the end of each assignment.
IMPLEMENTATION
In Year 7, Applied Learning is taught through single subjects. In Year 8, students have 5 hours per week of Applied Learning.
Our lessons are largely collaborative, with students working in teams. Essential to learning are excellent listening and speaking skills, which are embedded into the planning of single subjects and assignments. With a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, every opportunity is given to further this.
A range of teaching and learning styles are used: with a mixture of student led activities as well as teacher facilitated activities. As developing digital skills is essential, students are taught to engage with the Google platform and utilise video conferencing, recording and presentation tools to aid collaborative learning.
Presentation and performance skills are highly valued and students will also learn to develop confidence through presenting to an expert audience and demonstrating learning through artistic and vocal performance.
There are many opportunities for students to take part in educational visits. Another essential feature of Applied Learning is engaging with experts from business and industry, therefore we have industry professionals, who lead workshops for our students.
In Years 7 and 8, a cohort of students follow the Space Graduates pathway. In Year 7 this cohort will experience a number of STEM opportunities through enrichment, including educational trips. In Year 8, Space Graduates will have 5 hours of Applied Learning with a STEM focus. In these lessons students will engage with experts from industry, including engineering, computing and aerospace.
IMPACT
By young people understanding the connection between what they are learning and how they can practically use this knowledge in their lives, they become more engaged and motivated in lessons. At Rivers Academy, we want our students to leave school with high levels of achievement and qualifications, as well as transferable skills that can be utilised in an ever changing, challenging world. We want our students to be confident and have the personal attributes that shape their behaviour and attitudes as model citizens of the UK – to be equipped to thrive in the 21st century workplace with the power skills required for success in business, industry and meaningful employment.
Applied Learning Journey Planner
Applied Learning Curriculum Overview