Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between the Real LiFE Curriculum and a “traditional” school experience?

The biggest difference between the Real LiFE Curriculum and the traditional curriculum model is the concept of CREW.  Through this programme students will develop their character, ability to collaborate and think critically through a range of engaging activities.  Each student will also benefit from personalised coaching which helps them to develop in areas such as time management and goal setting which are so crucial to their future prospects.

The Real LiFE Curriculum also places a much greater emphasis on immersing students in the real world context of their work, and subject areas work in greater collaboration to bring topics together through real world issues such as equity and diversity in the community, health and well-being and climate change.  Finally the way in which students are assessed stretches far beyond traditional tests.  Each learning journey challenges the students to work towards final end products which are presented through showcase events.

 Give me a specific example of what this might look like...

An example of a typical learning journey is “Harnessing the Wind” where we use film and literature to explore the issues of deforestation, drought, poverty and famine in developing countries and then teach students the Scientific, Design, Engineering and Mathematical skills required to build a working scale model of a wind turbine that could be used to support communities in who live in remote rural areas with no access to a reliable supply of electricity.

How do you know that this style of learning works?

Groups of schools across the world, but particularly in Scandinavia and the USA, have been working in this way for a number of years.  Independent research by leading global institutions such as Harvard University and the OECD suggests that we can expect students who are taught in this way to be more proactive and better learners who are able to make better progress in areas such as literacy and maths, as well as generally being more engaged in their learning.

How will this curriculum fit in with GCSE's when the students are older?

At the moment our Real LiFE Curriculum is designed to be delivered across all key stages up to Key Stage 4 however we will still be able to offer many aspects of the Real LiFE Curriculum experience as our students progress through secondary school.  Clearly studying for formal qualifications in separate subject areas will limit the ability of our subject specialists to collaborate, however many of the other key features of the Real LiFE Curriculum such as CREW, personalised coaching and the way in which work is assessed will still be possible and beneficial.

 If my child follows the Real LiFE Curriculum will they be able to choose from the full range of GCSE options?

Yes!  All Real LiFE Curriculum learning journeys are written by subject specialists who work collaboratively to plan and deliver each activity to make sure everything is truly relevant and fully prepares the students to be able to apply their knowledge later on.  Everything that is taught is mapped to the curriculum plans for each individual subject area to ensure that the Real LiFE students will not have any gaps in their knowledge in comparison to students who follow a traditional model.  The full range of subjects are covered within the Real LiFE Curriculum, therefore students are able to select their GCSE’s from the full range of options.

Is the Real LiFE Curriculum designed for a certain type of student?

No! Personalised learning is central to the ethos and design of the Real LiFE Curriculum, therefore it is suitable for students of all abilities and needs.

Is this an easy option compared to a traditional model of teaching?

No!  The content delivered is no easier or harder than that delivered within a more traditional curriculum.  Each learning journey is rigorous and challenges students to build a deep and developed understanding in all subject areas.    

How do I apply for my child to follow the Real LiFE Curriculum?

The Real LiFE Curriculum is currently embedded within the Primary Curricula at Braunstone Frith Primary Academy and Kingsway Primary School, and the Key Stage 3 Secondary Curricula at Bosworth Academy, Countesthorpe Academy and The Winstanley School.  Key features of the Real LiFE Curriculum including CREW/Coaching, Interdisciplinary Missions and the use of Visible Success Criteria are in the process of being introduced to other schools/key stages within the LiFE Multi-Academy Trust.

For your child to follow the Real LiFE Curriculum, you simply need to apply for a place at a LiFE MAT School in the normal way.  Successful applicants will then be contacted by the school with transition information, which will include details of how your child will benefit from the Real LiFE Curriculum.