The curriculum at Blackwood Comprehensive School is broad, balanced and inclusive. We aim to promote and develop the intellectual, personal, social and physical development of all of our pupils. This includes not only the formal programme of lessons, but also the extensive “informal” programme of extra-curricular activities and clubs at lunch times, after school, during weekends and holidays. We are committed to preparing our pupils for lifelong learning.
A positive approach to all aspects of school life is encouraged so that all pupils of all abilities and aptitudes take pride in their achievements.
No two children are alike. The organisation of the school is intended to enable pupils, supported by staff, to make informed judgements about their lives.
Following on from primary school, the content of the curriculum is determined mainly by statutory guidelines provided by the government in the form of the National Curriculum, the Literacy and Numeracy Framework, and “Qualified for Life”.
Blackwood Comprehensive fully supports the statutory Literacy and Numeracy Framework. We recognise the great importance of improving the basic literacy and numeracy skills of all our pupils and this initiative has a high profile in the school. In order to support our pupils we have common approaches to the teaching of reading, writing and numeracy across the school. Our teachers mark pupils’ work using a common correction code for basic accuracy in writing and we expect a high standard of written accuracy and presentation from our pupils.
In line with statutory requirements each child is tested each year in reading, numerical procedures and numerical reasoning. The results of these tests are given to parents / guardians and the tests are used in order to assess where additional support might be needed.
If your child requires additional support with literacy or numeracy skills we have a team of teaching assistants to work with your child either on a one to one basis or in small groups in order to improve their skills quickly so that they can access the curriculum.
In addition to the support of specialist teaching assistants for literacy and numeracy we also provide clubs such as `Befrienders` where peer tutors are used to help improve the literacy or numeracy skills of the pupils involved.
If you would like to get more involved in developing the literacy and numeracy skills of your child and finding out more about the Literacy and Numeracy Framework we also run a Family Learning Club where you can learn alongside your child.
We look forward to working with you to improve your child’s literacy and numeracy skills.
Successful Futures
The Welsh Government has undertaken an ambitious review of the Curriculum and Assessment arrangements in Wales. We prepare our curriculum to meet the 4 key purposes of the curriculum and fully believe in the vision for all our pupils. We want to develop
- ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives
- enterprising, creative contributors, ready to play a full part in life and society
- ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the world
- healthy, confident individuals, ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society