‘The body of knowledge that children gain at the end of a topic should be deeper and wider than what is outlined on the knowledge organiser.’ In this blog, Caroline takes a closer look at a resource that’s gaining popularity in primary schools: the knowledge organiser. Have you noticed that knowledge organisers are making more… Read more
In this blog, Caroline Pudner introduces the new knowledge-rich curriculum projects from Cornerstones, explaining the rationale behind them and benefits for primary children. In her speech at the NAHT conference in May, Amanda Spielman, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, told schools that they do not need to rush to redesign or change their curriculum in light… Read more
Caroline talks to Mel Moore, Curriculum Director, about how to successfully thread big ideas or, as Ofsted call them, ‘larger concepts’ through a primary curriculum. We explore the role they play in the curriculum intent stage of planning and Mel shares her tips for ensuring coherence and connectivity throughout curriculum planning.
The importance of the much-used Ofsted term ‘curriculum intent’ and practical tips to help you achieve yours. Unless you’ve been hiding away for the last 12 months, you’ll most definitely have heard the phrase ‘curriculum intent’ by now. To its credit, the inspectorate has certainly done much to clarify the term, and debunk myths around… Read more
Six Steps of Curriculum Design Designing a curriculum is not easy. It is a complicated process that needs to be carefully thought through and involves much strategic decision making. With over 2000 schools now using the Cornerstones Curriculum, we have identified six crucial steps of effective curriculum design. These steps can be used by any… Read more
In the final episode of three special editions, Caroline talks to Katharine Birchall, Curriculum Lead and teacher at Reedness Primary School about her school’s curriculum journey using Cornerstones. Katharine shares her tips for using Cornerstones in a small school with mixed-aged classes and describes the positive impact on staff and children of adopting and adapting a curriculum to suit their unique setting.
A blog about the Cornerstones Curriculum, then and now.
Tom Sherrington wrote a great blog, Designing Curriculum: Values, quality, preferences-and sofa theory and it got me thinking that it was time to share important information about the Cornerstones Curriculum of now. You see, we’ve changed.
My recent interview with Ofsted’s Deputy Director for Schools, Matthew Purves, revealed that school leaders and teachers believe Ofsted has the right focus for the new Education Inspection Framework (EIF) but what will inspection actually feel like, post-September? Matthew has been a leading force in the creation of the new framework and spoke with me… Read more
Now Ofsted’s new inspection framework is published, we interviewed Deputy Director of Schools, Matthew Purves, about what leaders and teachers can actually expect when they’re inspected post-September. Our conversation covers ‘deep dives’, interviews with SLT and conversations with children. Matthew also offers insight into what Ofsted have learnt from the consultation and piloting of the framework. A must-listen for anyone in school, offering practical advice and reassurance.
