At Ironville and Codnor Park, we teach a broad and balanced curriculum that includes all subjects within the National Curriculum. We also teach Religious Education, following the Derbyshire County Council Locally Agreed Syllabus, and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education, which includes Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE).

Our subject-based curriculum builds progressively on the knowledge, understanding and skills pupils gain as they move through each key stage. Clear end points are identified for every year group using the National Curriculum and the detailed SHINE Threshold Concepts.

We set high expectations for all pupils, with no ceiling placed on any child’s learning potential. Alongside academic learning, we are committed to developing pupils as individuals by promoting positive character traits and supporting our RESPECT behaviours.

Children are taught in mixed-age classes, and staff plan carefully to meet the needs, abilities and aptitudes of all pupils within each class. Planning considers individual differences to ensure that learning remains accessible, challenging and engaging for everyone.

A variety of teaching approaches is used, including whole-class teaching, group work and individual strategies, depending on the subject and the nature of the activity. Each subject is planned for separately to ensure full coverage, although links between subjects are made where appropriate to enrich learning.

100 Life Skills

At Ironville and Codnor Park Primary School, we aim to meet the needs of all our children within our unique setting and with our unique challenges. We believe that additional life skills have a vital role in preparing children for the world beyond school, and we are currently enhancing this aspect of our curriculum. Life skills are essential because they equip children with the ability to navigate daily challenges, build healthy relationships, make informed decisions, manage stress and adapt to changing situations. These skills contribute to personal success and well-being throughout both professional and personal life. Regardless of academic qualifications or future job roles, life skills act as the tools needed to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.

Personal Development

Life skills such as communication, critical thinking and problem-solving help develop self-awareness, confidence, motivation and resilience. They enable children to manage their emotions and overcome challenges effectively, encouraging independence.

Social Interaction

Teamwork, leadership, empathy and active listening help children develop positive relationships, improve oracy and build strong collaboration skills.

Career Success

Employers increasingly value soft skills such as adaptability, initiative and time management alongside technical expertise, making life skills crucial for future employment and progression.

Decision Making

By developing analytical and critical thinking skills, children learn to make confident, creative and informed choices. This includes understanding financial responsibility and assessing the consequences of different options.

Mental Health

Stress management and emotional regulation—both supported through life-skills education—contribute to positive mental well-being, increased self-esteem and a more positive outlook.