Why is Our Year 3/4 Class called Kestrels?

Our Year 3/4 class is named "Kestrels" because, like this watchful and capable bird, the children are learning to become more independent, focused, and confident in their learning. As they move into Key Stage Two, they begin to build on strong foundations, applying skills with increasing precision and developing the ability to think critically and explore topics in greater depth.

Kestrels are known for their sharp vision and ability to rise above, which mirrors our learners’ growing ability to see the bigger picture, set goals, and take greater ownership of their learning. Just like kestrels mastering the skies, our children are learning to soar with confidence and purpose.

Philosophy

At Waltham Gateway Academy, it is our belief that the children within our academy will be truly seen and celebrated for their uniqueness as individuals; we want all children to know that we Care. Our classrooms are safe, supportive and nurturing environments where the children can take risks, express themselves and be heard. Adaptive teaching ensures that all learners can access the curriculum and be challenged to reach their full potential.

Learning is relevant, meaningful and enjoyable; It is our aim to spark every child's curiosity and develop a life-long love of learning. By fostering a culture of empowerment, we want all children to have courage, feel trusted and valued and be equipped with decision making skills that will enable them to self-advocate and, if they choose, be the leaders of the future.

Environment

At Waltham Gateway Academy, we understand, that to thrive, all children must have a positive and productive learning environment where they feel safe and are able to develop personally, socially, emotionally and academically. To achieve this, we promote community through building relationships; encouraging strong communication skills and providing all children with the platform to shine. Children will be encouraged to take chances, make mistakes and develop the resilience for growth. We want our children to want to come to school every day knowing that they belong.

Our outdoor learning environment fosters children’s development and enjoyment through safe, stimulating and engaging spaces. These areas include our playground, field, gardening area, polytunnel and equipment, as well as opportunities to learn off-site, such as educational visits, swimming lessons and more.

Curriculum

At Waltham Gateway Academy, we aim to provide a holistic and creative curriculum that engages, enthuses and develops children's interests and talents. Children’s cognitive skills will be developed so that they can use, apply and unlock the power of a breadth and wealth of subject-specific knowledge. We are responsive to children’s individual needs whilst working within a progressive framework of knowledge and skills that meet the requirements of the National Curriculum.

Reading is at the heart of everything we do; we are passionate about reading and developing a culture of reading for pleasure. Reading is at the centre of the curriculum through the use of core high-quality texts across curriculum subjects and a well-stocked class and academy library. Daily opportunities to share texts within class is prioritised. Oracy and vocabulary development are essential components which are embedded within our curriculum. Children are encouraged to use and apply their oracy, reading and vocabulary skills to develop their writing, which is supported through carefully planned learning sequences.

Core and foundation subjects are planned to ensure progression of skills and knowledge across the year and also across year groups to provide children with opportunities to build on the knowledge and skills they learn. Some carefully chosen schemes are adapted to suit our context and used to strengthen subject- specific areas. We are also fortunate to be able to draw upon the expertise within the MAT for specialist areas of learning. Enrichment opportunities are utilised to enhance the learning of all children.

Personal development and mental health and wellbeing are paramount within our curriculum. We will use the magic of children's stories to deliver impactful emotional literacy and inspire lifelong wellbeing by adopting the 'The Story Project' across the academy. In addition, are also engage with 'Brighter Future Fridays' which is a unique and bespoke enrichment programme specifically designed to encompass the key principles of character education to develop the skills needed to be successful as active citizens in the wider world.

Working in partnership

By working in partnership with parents, carers and external agencies, where appropriate, we support all of our Kestrels to develop the skills and attributes to ensure they are ready for their next stage of learning. Our 'open door' philosophy is important to us; working together ensures every child has the best opportunity to thrive.