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Shining a Light on Enrichment at St Mary’s

The recent national curriculum review has highlighted the importance of enrichment - ensuring that children’s education goes beyond classroom learning to develop the whole child. At St Mary’s, this is already at the heart of what we do. Enrichment is not an add-on; it is part of how we help every child to 'aspire, nurture and flourish; together shining our light'.

We believe that every child should experience learning that excites, inspires and deepens understanding of the world around them. Our approach to enrichment sits proudly across five key areas:

1. Enriching our Curriculum – At St Mary’s, every subject is designed to be knowledge-rich, inspiring curiosity, creativity and a love of learning. Our curriculum encourages children to explore, question and make meaningful connections across their subjects. We also enrich learning through half-termly themed weeks, where the whole school focuses on a shared idea or concept. These weeks allow children to investigate big questions, work collaboratively, experience enrichment activities and celebrate their learning in memorable ways. From Year 1, children learn Spanish, helping them develop early language skills and an appreciation of global culture. From Year 2, all children have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument, building confidence, expression and enjoyment of the arts.

2. Afterschool Enrichment Clubs – From sport and music to coding and creative arts, our clubs provide children with opportunities to discover new interests, develop skills and build confidence outside of the classroom. Our clubs change each term to give children a wide variety of opportunities.

3. Trips and Visitors – We know how powerful real-world experiences can be. Visits and visitors bring learning to life, build cultural capital and help children make meaningful links with their community and the wider world.

4. Leadership Skills – Whether through the School Council, Eco Team, House Captains or Play Leaders, our children learn to take responsibility, make decisions and work collaboratively — key elements of personal development and citizenship. Because we view the development of these skills as such an important life lesson, every Year 6 pupil holds a Position of Responsibility, giving all children the opportunity to contribute actively to school life and lead by example.

5. The St Mary’s Changemaker Project – Rooted in our Christian vision and inspired by Matthew 5:13–16, this project helps children recognise that they can make a difference. Our changemakers take action in their school, community and world - shining their light to bring about positive change.
   
   

As the national conversation around enrichment continues, we are proud that St Mary’s already champions these principles every day. We will keep refining and expanding our offer so that every child leaves us with rich experiences, lasting memories and the confidence to use their gifts for good.

House Points

Above and Beyond

Attendance Award

Year 2’s Fantastic Adventure in London! 

This week, our Year 2 children had an unforgettable time exploring The Golden Hinde in London — the remarkable ship sailed by Sir Francis Drake during his circumnavigation of the globe from 1577 to 1580.

The pupils discovered why Drake’s expedition became so famous, tried their hands at firing a cannon, and even learnt how sailors in the 1500s would raise and lower an anchor. It was a brilliant mix of history, adventure, and hands-on learning!

A wonderful day full of excitement! 

Reception’s Wonderful Day at Odds Farm

Reception had a fantastic day at Odds Farm, filled with hands-on learning and plenty of excitement. The children loved getting close to the animals — petting the bunnies, feeding the goats and sheep, and watching Moomin the cow being milked. A real highlight was meeting 11 tiny piglets, only nine days old!

Throughout the day, the children explored lots of big questions linked to their learning, including:

What is a baby bunny called?

What is a daddy pig called?

It was a brilliant day full of curiosity, new experiences and joyful discovery. The children represented St Mary’s beautifully and came away buzzing with everything they had learned.

Year 5 Experience the Magic of the West End

Year 5 enjoyed an unforgettable trip to London’s West End to see Starlight Express — an incredible musical performed entirely on roller skates! This visit is part of our commitment to giving every child the chance to experience a professional theatre production, enriching their cultural capital and widening their understanding of the arts.

Before the show, we talked about theatre etiquette and how to be respectful, attentive audience members. The children took this to heart and represented St Mary’s beautifully.

A lovely moment came when the cast performed a Blues-inspired song (Poppa's Blues). As Year 5 have been learning about Blues music in their Music lessons, they immediately recognised the style and even tapped out the rhythm quietly - a wonderful example of learning coming to life.

The children were exceptionally well behaved, enthusiastic and engaged throughout. It was a fantastic experience that they will remember for a long time. 

St Mary’s Highlights: Don’t Miss a Moment!

Stay connected and dive into the excitement at St Mary’s! Our social media pages are buzzing with all the amazing activities our children have been involved in over the past couple of weeks. From vibrant class projects and special assemblies to heartwarming community events, there’s so much to see and celebrate!

Click on our social media links to catch up on all the fun, unforgettable moments, and proud achievements. Don’t miss out—follow us and be part of the joy that makes our school community shine!