Foundation Subjects
Foundation Subjects at Barnes Infant Academy
Our foundation curriculum provides children with opportunities to explore the world around them while developing curiosity, creativity and cultural understanding. Our curriculum has been designed specifically for Barnes Infant Academy, taking account of our local context in Sunderland so that learning begins with familiar experiences before extending children’s knowledge beyond their immediate environment and into the wider world.
Learning in the foundation subjects builds on the strong foundations established in the Early Years Foundation Stage, where children begin to explore the world through observation, talk and practical experiences. As pupils move into Key Stage One, this early understanding is developed through carefully sequenced knowledge across subjects including history, geography, art, design and technology, computing, music and religious education.
Vocabulary and oracy are prioritised across all subjects. Key vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited so that children can communicate their understanding clearly, while structured opportunities for discussion support pupils in explaining ideas, asking questions and developing confidence in speaking.
Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive so that all children can succeed. Learning is carefully structured with clear modelling, visual resources and practical experiences that support understanding while reducing cognitive load.
Through our foundation curriculum, children develop secure knowledge, strong communication skills and a growing curiosity about the world, providing strong foundations for continued learning in Key Stage 2 and reflecting our curriculum drivers of Belonging, Communication, Curiosity and Resilience.