Our curriculum is unique to Linden and has been designed to provide exciting and innovative learning experiences for our children with a specific focus on creative arts and experiential learning.

It was designed using National Curriculum objectives and rigorous systems were applied to ensure full legal coverage whilst ensuring that learning takes place in context through cross curricular links rather than subjects being taught in isolation.

There is a focus on the progression of the basic skills of Literacy, Numeracy and ICT.  Where strong links cannot be made subjects are taught discretely, for instance most, but not all, maths is taught discretely. Literacy has been re-designed to fit with the new creative curriculum. National Literacy Strategy objectives are still taught but a critical pathway has been designed and implemented to ensure that Literacy skills can be developed in conjunction with and/ or through other subjects. Not all Literacy is linked to the theme. In order to ensure breadth of literary experience some Literacy units are taught in isolation.  Science is taught discretely as well as through the themes and there is a much greater emphasis placed on investigation and experiments. 

The thematic approach is driven by a termly focus; history, geography and science. These subjects are enhanced using art, D.T. and dance.  Emphasis is placed on developing children’s skills as learners and skill ladders are used to ensure progression and to nurture increasing independence across the primary phase.  We strive for quality not quantity and to do ‘less, better’. Children are immersed in their learning so through content coverage, skills based learning, support where needed and independence being encouraged children become experts in their field.

The Creative Curriculum, at Linden , is built on a philosophy, which embraces four key elements; environment, teaching, learning and creativity. Our Curriculum Development Plan focuses on this vision.

We believe that the school environment, as a whole, has a great impact upon our children’s learning. We are committed to creating an organised and stimulating environment where the enjoyment of teaching and learning takes place. High quality displays with strong visual impact support learning and celebrate children’s achievement.

Teaching is guided by our children’s prior knowledge and experiences. With clear objectives and high, yet achievable expectations, we aim to fulfil the learning potential of all pupils, regardless of ability.

We recognise that children learn best through a variety of learning styles (visual, auditory and kinaesthetic), and through meaningful contexts and experiential opportunities, including visits. This takes place when children are motivated, challenged and actively involved in their own learning.

Creativity enriches all aspects of our children’s curriculum, thinking and learning. It inspires the children to be curious, imaginative and take risks in order to achieve their full potential.

The Curriculum is well supported by SEAL (social and emotional aspects of learning) systems that allow for calm, well-managed classes, where learning can take place.