We recognise that the curriculum extends beyond the classroom. At Downham C of E Primary School, we understand that the curriculum encompasses the entirety of learning opportunities offered to pupils—both inside and outside the classroom—and sits at the heart of our vision: Inspiring All to Soar to New Heights.

Guided by our school values of Challenge, Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Courage, we provide a broad and inclusive range of experiences that help pupils develop their talents, character, and sense of responsibility. Our curriculum encourages resilience and curiosity and ensures all children, regardless of background, have equitable access to the opportunities they need to thrive.

Pupil development is nurtured and built upon year after year, beginning in our Early Years Foundation Stage. From the very start, we aim to promote and strengthen life skills in all our pupils, preparing them not only for the next stage of education but for life in modern Britain. Our goal is to educate children who are responsible, respectful, and active citizens, fully prepared to contribute to public life as they transition to secondary school and beyond.

We want our pupils to be alert to current affairs and to develop a diligent appetite for ambition. Personal Development is a central part of our offer and is informed by evidence-based guidance from organisations such as the PSHE Association and the Education Endowment Foundation. Through this, our pupils gain a deep understanding of fundamental British values—respect for the rule of law, individual liberty, democracy, and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

Leaders are acutely aware of our local context and the needs of our community. As a result, our curriculum choices, including key authors, role models, and inspirational figures, are intentionally diverse and inclusive, representing a broad range of cultural backgrounds. This helps pupils see themselves—and others—reflected in the curriculum, fostering empathy, inclusion, and aspiration.