Wider Curriculum

Intent

At Orchard Primary Academy we aim to develop the whole child through:

High expectations; wider-world enrichment experiences; delivering a relevant curriculum and by developing local community partnerships.

Through providing enrichment experiences we aim to develop respectful, resilient and aspirational learners, who enjoy each day and make the most of every enrichment opportunity. We believe that all children can achieve, no matter what their starting point or barrier.

Enrichment provides children with a rounded, culturally rich education through activities that are aimed to enhance their learning. Enrichment gives children opportunities to try new and varied activities that develop character, resilience and motivation and encourage them to persue wider goals. Our aim is that the enrichment opportunities we provide will be linked to our curriculum drivers of respect, resilience and aspiration and will benefit the children beyond the classroom and can help them to develop an appreciation for cultural and community issues, teamwork and social responsibility.

Implementation

Through the careful planning of the curriculum at Orchard, we have ensured that children have available to them various opportunities for enrichment.

We are dedicated to provide experiences that help children to develop cultural capital and an understanding of the wider world. Our SMSC and citizenship runs throughout the new, developing curriculum linked to History, Geography and Science. 

Impact

Evidence of our enrichment opportunities are celebrated through class Twitter pages, Class SMSC books and in addition some aspects may be recorded in books, especially in KS2.

Parents are able to see the impact through Twitter, the school Facebook page and sporting achievements are celebrated in a weekly celebration assembly, where parents are invited along.  Home learning menu activities are shared on Twitter, Tapestry and on the school Facebook page. Children are also receiving certificates in celebration assembly for bronze, silver and gold awards depending on how many points they have accrued.

A recent parent survey based on enrichment showed that 85% of parents felt that their children were being provided with enrichment opportunities at Orchard and felt happy with the activities that were being provided to enrich their children’s school experience. 

Enrichment Sessions:

At Orchard we are proud to offer a rich and diverse enrichment programme for our Key Stage Two pupils, designed to broaden their horizons, develop new skills, and inspire a love of learning beyond the classroom. Each Friday afternoon, children participate in a dedicated enrichment session. The activities on offer alternate half-termly, and pupils are given the opportunity to select from a range of engaging options that reflect their interests and encourage them to try new things. Our enrichment sessions aim to provide a well-rounded experience, combining creative, physical, and social development. The variety of activities available ensures that every child has the chance to discover new passions, strengthen their confidence, and develop valuable life skills.

A selection of the activities offered includes:

• Cheerleading – Building teamwork, physical strength, and coordination while developing performance confidence.
• Penpal Letters to International Schools – Improving writing skills, communication, and global awareness by exchanging letters with students from different cultural backgrounds.
• Volunteering at the Local Care Home – Developing empathy, social responsibility, and intergenerational connection through meaningful interactions with elderly residents.
• Learning to Play American Football – Enhancing teamwork, strategic thinking, and physical fitness while learning the fundamentals of the sport.
• Bicycle Maintenance – Teaching problem-solving and practical skills as children learn how to fix and maintain bikes.
• Arts, Crafts, Calligraphy, and Sketching – Encouraging creativity and fine motor skills through exploration of different artistic techniques.
• Spanish Language Learning – Introducing children to a new language, improving memory and cognitive skills, and building cross-cultural understanding.
• Wellbeing Walks in the Local Area – Promoting mindfulness, physical health, and an appreciation for the natural environment.
• Gardening in the School Grounds – Teaching patience, responsibility, and environmental awareness through hands-on gardening projects.
• Acting and Drama – Developing confidence, public speaking skills, and creative expression through drama exercises and performances.

We have been incredibly impressed by how quickly the children have adapted to and embraced these new challenges. Their enthusiasm and determination have been evident in how they are already applying their newly acquired skills in different contexts. Whether collaborating on a team project, communicating more effectively with their peers, or showing greater resilience in problem-solving situations, it is clear that the enrichment sessions are having a positive impact on their overall development.

The gallery showcases some fantastic examples of the activities the children have been completing, highlighting their creativity, teamwork, and growing confidence. We are confident that these experiences will continue to benefit them both academically and personally, fostering a lifelong love of learning and exploration.