October Achievement & Curriculum Committee

As we progress through this academic year, I am pleased to share with you some significant developments and insights from our recent Achievement & Curriculum Committee meeting. This gathering provided a comprehensive overview of the educational landscape in our schools.

The committee reviewed each School-on-a-Page, a critical tool that encapsulates the essence of our individual institutions. This process allowed us to gain a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges and the opportunities present within each school. Simultaneously, we examined the targets set across our trust, ensuring they are both ambitious and attainable, aligning with our overarching vision for educational excellence.

A particular focus of our discussions centred on Early Years education, recognising that this stage profoundly influences a pupil's educational journey. We scrutinised our current environment and provision, identifying areas of strength and opportunities for enhancement. We heard about the external audits carried out by Early Excellence, working closely with staff.  This analysis has led to the formulation of strategic priorities for investment, aimed at optimising our Early Years offerings and providing our youngest pupils with the best possible start to their academic careers.  We are looking forward to the more detailed plans from each school about what dedicated investment and resources are needed.

The committee also engaged in a thorough examination of end-of-year outcomes across the trust. Our Director of Education presented compelling evidence highlighting writing as a key determinant of overall pupil achievement. This insight has prompted a robust discussion on potential interventions to elevate writing standards throughout our schools.

In response to these findings, we have deliberated on the implementation of the CUSP Curriculum. This comprehensive approach is designed to enhance both reading and writing skills, providing our pupils with a solid foundation in literacy. The CUSP Curriculum's integrated methodology aligns with our commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous improvement in pedagogical approaches.

As we move forward, these discussions and decisions will shape our strategic direction, influencing how we allocate resources, structure our teaching methodologies, and support our pupils' educational journeys. Our unwavering focus remains on providing a high-quality, inclusive education that prepares our pupils for future success.

The insights gained from this committee meeting reaffirm our dedication to educational excellence and our commitment to nurturing every pupil's potential. As we implement these strategies and investments, we anticipate seeing tangible improvements in pupil outcomes, particularly in the crucial areas of reading and writing.

We remain grateful for the continued support and engagement of our entire school community. Your partnership is invaluable as we work collectively to create an enriching and empowering educational environment for all our pupils.

Laura Holland

Acting Chair of Committee