English

It is our aim to enable our pupils to use language effectively and confidently in a range of different situations for a range of different purposes. The five strands of learning are Speaking and Listening, Reading, Writing, Spelling and Handwriting and include the teaching of punctuation and grammar.

Our English teaching includes a variety of teaching methods; children are involved in whole class, group and individual activities during English lessons.

In Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 the children also follow a carefully planned curriculum that includes the teaching of phonics to support the development of reading skills. Grammar, spelling and punctuation is taught through the English lessons but is applied to all subject areas. Below is our English curriculum.

Modern Foreign Languages

French is taught weekly, to all our Key Stage 2 children, by a French subject specialist. Children build their competence in the language through a carefully structured scheme. This involves spoken and written work and includes songs, videos and authentic materials. As well as learning the language children also build their knowledge of French culture.

Art

Whilst at Ridgeway we aim to expose children to some of the best known artists and works as well as giving them opportunities to develop their own personal skills and knowledge. Our Art curriculum enables children to explore and develop ideas and also to evaluate and develop their work. Children are taught to develop skills and knowledge in drawing, digital media, painting, textiles, 3D and collage.

In 2023, we have been awarded the Artsmark Silver Award for our commitment to delivering a creative and inspiring arts curriculum.

Music

Music has a high priority at Ridgeway. We follow the Charanga music programme written by specialists. Our aim is for the teaching and learning of music to be fun, relevant and inspiring, central to each child's academic, social and emotional development. Children have opportunities to listen and appraise, create and explore as well as sing, play instruments and perform. 

There are a range of extracurricular music opportunities. Children are able to sing in the choir, perform at various venues and are able to learn to play a musical instrument. We have a range of peripatetic music specialists. Parents are required to pay for instrumental tuition.