St Michael’s Curriculum Design

At St Michael’s, our curriculum adheres to the National Curriculum and is shaped by our vision and values. Our school’s vision — “We are forces for positive change; we act justly, show merciful love, and walk humbly with our God” — along with our core values of Love, Respect, and Integrity, form the foundation of our curriculum design. These principles guide not only what we teach, but also how we approach learning, character development, and community engagement.

Being Forces for Positive Change

We are committed to preparing students to be active, responsible citizens who engage thoughtfully with the world. Our Open Worlds Humanities, HEP Science and Jigsaw programmes play a key role in this:

• These programmes explore subjects in real-world contexts that matter to our pupils.
• Pupils are encouraged to think critically about global issues, sustainability, justice, and human impact, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility.
• The curriculum is designed to be relevant to the lived experiences of our diverse school community, promoting inclusion and global awareness.

Acting Justly

Justice is embedded in how and what we teach:

• Our curriculum reflects diverse histories, voices, and perspectives, allowing all pupils to see themselves represented and valued.
• Open Worlds encourages students to explore ethical dimensions in topics like human rights, equality, and environmental justice.
• Pupils are taught to evaluate information and form thoughtful, fair opinions, equipping them to stand up for what is right.

Showing Merciful Love

Compassion and empathy underpin our learning culture:

• We create a safe and nurturing environment where students are supported to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
• Through collaborative and reflective activities in Open Worlds and beyond, students build an understanding of others’ perspectives and needs.
• Where possible, we create enrichment opportunities — such as trips, guest speakers, and community projects — that deepen their understanding of themselves, others, and the world around them.

Walking Humbly with God

Spiritual development is interwoven into school life:

• We encourage pupils to reflect on their place in the world, their values, and how they can serve others with humility and purpose.
• Faith and spirituality are explored in ways that welcome all, promoting dialogue and respect for different beliefs.
• Daily practices and curriculum moments help pupils walk with humility and gratitude.

Living the Values of Love, Respect, and Integrity

Our values are lived out through both the content and culture of our curriculum:

• Love: Promoted through positive relationships, inclusive teaching, and support for each learner.
• Respect: Evident in how we celebrate difference, encourage collaboration, and listen to all voices.
• Integrity: Seen in our focus on honesty, fairness, and doing what is right, even when it’s difficult.

By anchoring our curriculum in our vision and values — and enhancing it through rich, contextual programmes like Jigsaw and Open Worlds — we help pupils become thoughtful, compassionate, and courageous learners, ready to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

'Education is our passport to the future. For tomorrow belongs only to the people who prepare for it today.' Malcolm X