At Hartlepool Free School, We Help Every Child Thrive!
Imagine a school where every student feels valued, inspired, and ready to achieve their personal best – that’s Hartlepool Free School! Our curriculum combines academic excellence with personal growth, outdoor experiences, and practical skills, creating a nurturing environment where every child can flourish.
A Curriculum That Inspires and Challenges
We believe in building upon each child’s strengths and encouraging them to aim high. Our curriculum is designed to inspire learning through a combination of outdoor education, horticulture, and animal care, offering hands-on experiences that nurture a deep connection to nature. Cultural education also plays a key role, expanding students' understanding of the world around them.
Our approach is grounded in fostering emotional resilience and teaching students how to manage their emotions and tackle challenges, both in learning and life. We also ensure a strong focus on reading, writing, and oracy to equip every student with essential communication skills.
Personalised Progress and Aspirations
We know that every child has their own unique path to success. Whether pursuing A-Levels, GCSEs, vocational qualifications, or personal development, our highly adaptable curriculum ensures every student can achieve their personal best. Alongside this, our personal development programme supports their growth into confident, well-rounded individuals, prepared for the future.
Preparing for the Future
From day one, we focus on preparing students for adulthood. With access to work experience, apprenticeships, employer visits, and opportunities to explore a wide range of post-16 options, we ensure that every student is well-prepared for their next steps. We also encourage students to engage in community activities and take part in initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh programme, helping them develop a strong sense of belonging and responsibility.
Safety, Well-being, and Enjoyment
At Hartlepool Free School, we prioritise student safety with a robust safeguarding curriculum, including a cyber academy membership for each child. Our goal is to help students feel secure and supported while encouraging a love of learning. We work hard to identify each student’s interests and passions, making sure that enjoyment is part of every day.
At Hartlepool Free School, we’re committed to helping every child thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally. Together, we’ll build the foundation for a bright and successful future.
Please look through our subject statements and documentation using the links below:
Rationale – Why are we teaching this?
Mathematics is an essential skill used in everyday life, forming the foundation for logical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Proficiency in mathematical concepts enables students to navigate the world with confidence, whether interpreting data, managing finances, or understanding spatial relationships. Developing a strong foundation in number fluency, geometry, measurement, and statistical analysis ensures our students are well-prepared for success both academically and beyond.
Curriculum Intent – What are the big ideas in this subject?
The curriculum is rooted in the National Curriculum to ensure comprehensive coverage of statutory requirements. Our aim is to foster confident problem-solvers and logical thinkers who can apply mathematical knowledge in real-world contexts. By emphasising number fluency, spatial reasoning, and analytical skills, we aim to build a deep and interconnected understanding of mathematical concepts. The curriculum also prioritises the development of skills to solve problems and reason mathematically.
Curriculum Implementation – How will this subject be delivered?
Students will engage in whole-class interactive teaching, where mathematical concepts are explored collaboratively and reinforced through hands-on activities. Lessons will include explicit teaching, guided practice, and opportunities for independent exploration. Regular assessments and low-stakes quizzes will provide insights into progress and identify areas for additional support. Key topics such as number, geometry, algebra, and measurement will be revisited throughout the year to ensure retention and mastery.
Teaching strategies will emphasise:
- Active participation through questioning and discussion.
- Use of concrete materials and visual aids to build conceptual understanding.
- Differentiated tasks and targeted interventions to support all learners.
Curriculum Impact – What outcomes must the students get from this subject?
Students will develop:
- Confidence and fluency in core mathematical operations and concepts.
- The ability to apply mathematical reasoning in everyday scenarios.
- Proficiency in interpreting and solving real-world problems using mathematics.
- A foundation for future mathematical learning, including advanced topics and abstract thinking.
Curriculum Sequence Overview
Half Term 1: Basic Number
- Place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
- Focus on building foundational number skills and fluency.
Half Term 2: Fractions, Decimals, Percentages
- Introduction and manipulation of fractions and decimals.
- Understanding percentages and their real-life applications.
Half Term 3: Measurement
- Exploration of money, time, and units of measurement.
- Practical problem-solving tasks related to measurement.
Half Term 4: Geometry
- Study of shapes, angles, position, and direction.
- Application of geometric reasoning to understand spatial relationships.
Half Term 5: Statistics and Probability
- Collecting, interpreting, and presenting data.
- Understanding probability concepts and their application.
Half Term 6: Ratio and Algebra
- Introduction to ratios and proportions.
- Basic algebraic expressions and problem-solving.
Rationale – Why are we teaching this?
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education) provides students with the knowledge, skills, and values to navigate their personal lives and the wider world effectively. It empowers students to make informed decisions, develop emotional resilience, and foster positive relationships while promoting an understanding of health, safety, and societal responsibilities. By addressing key topics such as relationships, health, and careers, PSHE ensures students are well-equipped to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.
Curriculum Intent – What are the big ideas in this subject?
The PSHE curriculum is designed to cover three core themes: Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World. These themes underpin the big ideas, which include:
- Promoting physical and mental health, including personal safety and lifestyle choices.
- Fostering respectful and healthy relationships, embracing diversity, and understanding the impacts of discrimination.
- Preparing for future aspirations by developing skills for employability, financial literacy, and responsible citizenship.
- By embedding British values and cross-curricular links, the curriculum ensures a holistic approach to personal and social development.
Curriculum Implementation – How will this subject be delivered?
PSHE lessons will be delivered through a combination of teacher-led discussions, interactive activities, and project-based learning. Each year group will explore age-appropriate topics to build knowledge progressively and revisit key themes to deepen understanding. The curriculum incorporates:
- Use of external visitors (e.g., NHS, local MPs) to provide expert perspectives.
- Cross-curricular links with science, careers, and digital literacy for practical application.
- Regular opportunities for self-reflection through student voice and personal development activities.
- Engagement with British values to contextualise societal roles and responsibilities.
Curriculum Impact – What outcomes must the students get from this subject?
Students will:
- Understand and practice strategies for maintaining physical and mental health.
- Develop the skills to form and maintain positive and respectful relationships.
- Gain awareness of personal safety, peer pressure, and societal risks such as substance misuse.
- Build aspirations and readiness for future careers and financial independence.
- Act as responsible, informed members of their communities, upholding values of equality and respect.
Curriculum Sequence Overview
UKS2 (Upper Key Stage 2)
- Autumn 1: TEAM (Relationships) – Collaboration, respect, and resolving disputes.
- Autumn 2: Safety First (Health and Wellbeing) – First aid, peer pressure, and emergency response.
- Spring 1: Diverse Britain (Living in the Wider World) – Democracy, law, and community roles.
- Spring 2: Be Yourself (Relationships) – Emotional resilience and confidence.
- Summer 1: It’s My Body (Health and Wellbeing) – Healthy choices and body image.
- Summer 2: Aiming High (Living in the Wider World) – Skills, aspirations, and overcoming barriers.
Year 7
- Autumn 1: Transition and Safety – Adapting to secondary school and personal safety.
- Autumn 2: Developing Skills and Aspirations – Careers and equality in society.
- Spring 1: Diversity – Celebrating differences and anti-bullying.
- Spring 2: Health and Puberty – Physical and emotional changes during puberty.
- Summer 1: Building Relationships – Communication and positive interactions.
- Summer 2: Financial Decision Making – Budgeting and financial literacy.
Year 8
- Autumn 1: Drugs and Alcohol – Risks and peer pressure.
- Autumn 2: Community and Careers – Exploring aspirations and societal roles.
- Spring 1: Discrimination – Addressing prejudice and promoting equality.
- Spring 2: Emotional Wellbeing – Managing emotions and self-confidence.
- Summer 1: Identity and Relationships – Understanding self and respectful connections.
- Summer 2: Digital Literacy – Online safety and responsible technology use.
Year 9
- Autumn 1: Peer Influence, Substance Use, and Gangs – Managing risks and making safe choices.
- Autumn 2: Setting Goals – Planning for academic and career success.
- Spring 1: Respectful Relationships – Healthy boundaries and mutual respect.
- Spring 2: Healthy Lifestyle – Balancing physical and mental health.
- Summer 1: Intimate Relationships – Understanding consent and emotional safety.
- Summer 2: Employability Skills – Preparing for future careers.
Rationale – Why are we teaching this?
Tutor time provides a structured opportunity for students to develop essential personal, social, and emotional skills that contribute to their overall well-being and success. It is a key element of fostering a positive school culture and ensuring students are equipped to navigate life safely and responsibly. By focusing on safeguarding, teamwork, and personal development, we aim to support students in building resilience, understanding relationships, and contributing positively to their communities.
Curriculum Intent – What are the big ideas in this subject?
The intent of tutor time is to create a safe and inclusive environment where students can explore key aspects of personal development. By addressing topics such as safeguarding, teamwork, and relationships, we aim to:
- Develop students' understanding of personal and community safety.
- Build skills for effective collaboration and conflict resolution.
- Promote empathy, respect, and understanding of diverse perspectives, including protected characteristics.
- Equip students with strategies to manage challenges, peer pressure, and difficult situations.
Curriculum Implementation – How will this subject be delivered?
Tutor time will be delivered through interactive and reflective activities that encourage participation and critical thinking. A variety of methods, including discussions, group projects, and guided reflections, will ensure that students can engage with the material in meaningful ways. Key elements of implementation include:
- Establishing a positive group dynamic with clear ground rules.
- Addressing safeguarding topics through age-appropriate discussions and case studies.
- Regularly revisiting themes such as teamwork and relationships to reinforce understanding.
- Providing opportunities for students to create a personal portfolio that reflects their learning journey.
- Each session will be guided by the tutor, who will facilitate discussions, model positive behaviours, and ensure a safe space for all students.
Curriculum Impact – What outcomes must the students get from this subject?
Students will:
- Understand key aspects of personal safety, including road and water safety.
- Develop positive relationships and effective teamwork skills.
- Recognise and challenge bullying and peer pressure.
- Gain confidence in managing personal challenges and being advocates for themselves and others.
- Build a portfolio demonstrating their growth in understanding and applying safeguarding principles.
Curriculum Sequence Overview
Half Term 1: Foundations and Ground Rules
- Establishing tutor group norms and understanding protected characteristics.
Half Term 2: Teamwork
- Developing collaboration skills and understanding the value of working together.
Half Term 3: Problem-Solving
- Strategies for addressing and resolving conflicts within teams.
Half Term 4: Relationships
- Building and maintaining friendships and understanding healthy relationships.
Half Term 5: Bullying and Peer Pressure
- Understanding the dynamics of bullying and peer influence, with differentiated focus for Key Stages.
Half Term 6: Community Safety
- Exploring road and water safety, and promoting active and safe participation in the community.