Curriculum for 5 to 14 year olds

The central features of the 5-14 curriculum, which is followed from P1 to S2 are: 

• breadth – a wide range of learning areas
• balance – due attention given to each area of learning
• continuity – each stage of learning builds on what pupils already know and can do
• progression – increasingly challenging but attainable goals for all pupils as they move through school.

Generally, schools follow national advice about what should be taught and the time to be spent in each curricular area but increasingly have flexibility to match the needs of pupils.

Attainment

Levels of attainment from A to F are used to gauge how individual pupils are progressing between P1 (age 5) and S2 (age 14). In your child’s report, you will see a list of curricular areas and the level that your child has reached in each of them.

The levels of attainment that pupils are expected to reach at each stage are:

• Level A: Should be attainable in the course of P1 to P3 by almost all pupils.
• Level B: Should be attainable by some pupils in P3 or even earlier, but certainly by most in P4.
• Level C: Should be attainable in the course of P4 to P6 by most pupils.
• Level D: Should be attainable by some pupils in P5 to P6 or even earlier, but certainly by most in P7.
• Level E: Should be attainable by some pupils in P7 to S1 but certainly by most in S2.
• Level F: Should be attainable in part by some pupils and completed by a few pupils in the course of P7 to S2.

These are realistic expectations of progress through the 5-14 curriculum, however, we understand that pupils learn at different rates and in different ways. Additional challenges will be set for pupils who are making good progress and support will be given to those experiencing difficulties. Your child's school will advise you and your child of the progress achieved, and of the appropriate next steps of learning in each curricular area.

Subjects studied from ages 5 to 14 include:

• English language
• Mathematics
• Environmental studies
• Modern languages
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Expressive arts
• Physical education, sport and outdoor education
• International education and global citizenship
• Gaelic education
• Religious and moral education

English language  

English language is taught through reading, writing, talking and listening. Our staff use language and literature to support the intellectual, emotional and social development of our young people so that they can become confident readers, expressive writers and effective speakers. All pupils study English Language.

Mathematics 

Pupils are taught skills in mathematical thinking and to be comfortable using and applying their knowledge. Problem solving, information handling and real-life applications of mathematics, such as money and measurement, are important parts of the curriculum.

Environmental studies 

Environmental Studies is the study of the world around us. It is organised into three main areas: Science, Technology, and Social Subjects. Science allows pupils to explore and understand the world around them through a practical investigative approach. Pupils also consider how technology is used to meet people's needs and to change their environment. Pupils study Environmental Studies from P1 to S2.

Modern languages  

French, German, Italian and Spanish are the main European languages taught from P6 onwards. We aim to produce pupils who are tolerant of and sensitive to other cultures, who have the skills to compete in the international marketplace and to learn other languages later in life. Our pupils benefit from the presence of foreign language assistants, visits abroad and the use of modern technology – all of which help them become competent in the use of the language.

Heritage languages including Gaelic and Urdu are available in some schools and in after-school provision.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Our aim is for pupils to become skilled and informed users of new technology, including e-mail and the Internet. As well as teaching ICT as a subject in its own right from P1, we promote its use in other areas of the curriculum. Every P1 to P5 class has a class e-mail address, and P6, P7, and secondary pupils have personal e-mail addresses. Internet accessible computers are available in every class.

Expressive arts

Art and Design, Music, Drama and Dance are all part of the Expressive Arts curriculum. Work by artists within schools and visits to workshops, performances and exhibitions are often used to enhance pupils’ learning and experiences of the arts. Many schools offer extra-curricular and ‘out-of-school-hours’ arts activities in which your child may take part.

If your child is interested in learning to play a musical instrument, they may have the opportunity to apply for free instrumental lessons. Lessons are given during the school day at primary and at secondary. A full range of city-wide bands and orchestras gives further playing and performance opportunities.

Further opportunities to learn to play an instrument, as well as singing activities are also available. See www.edinburghartsandlearning.org for more details. Pupils with particular musical abilities are provided for through a specialist course at the City of Edinburgh Music School. For more information visit www.edinburghmusicschool.co.uk.

Physical education, sport and outdoor education

Physical Education (PE), Sport and Outdoor Education (OE) are valuable parts of the curriculum offering pupils the opportunity to learn new skills and have fun participating in a variety of different sports and activities.

Pupils can also study certified courses in PE and undertake Scottish Authority examinations in secondary schools. At school, your child is likely to participate in a wide range of sports such as badminton, swimming, athletics, football, rugby, gymnastics and dance. In addition to curriculum PE, Active Schools Edinburgh and our Sports Development programmes aim to offer school aged children the motivation and opportunities to adopt active, healthy lifestyles throughout their school years and into adulthood.

These programmes are not just about encouraging more children to take part in sport and exercise, but aim to introduce more physical activity into their daily lives through walking and cycling to school, play, dance, etc. – simply helping children to be more active, more often.

The Active Schools Edinburgh team consists of 16 primary, 23 secondary and two special educational needs co-ordinators. These co-ordinators work in partnership to increase the range of quality opportunities for pupils to become physically active through a wide range of extra-curricular programmes. Active Schools and Sports Development programmes have also established links with local clubs and community groups to enhance the range of sporting opportunities available.

A number of sports development officers work across the city to develop various sports including women’s and men’s football, cycling, rugby, athletics, tennis and cricket. These officers give children the opportunity to become involved and develop their potential in specific sports.

For talented young sportspeople there are opportunities to join in our Sports Academy programmes which develop football, cricket, cycling and badminton.

Throughout the year a wide range of sports festivals and competitions also take place through Active Schools and the Sport Development Officers. Many of our pupils represent their school and city in national and international competitions.

Sports and Outdoor Education Unit

The Sports and Outdoor Education Unit co-ordinates a wide range of PE, Sport and Outdoor Education opportunities for young people in the city. For more information see the Sports and Outdoor Education webpages on EGFL or contact the Unit on 0131 550 6838.

International Education and Global Citizenship

All of our schools are encouraged to include International Education and Global Citizenship in the curriculum. Pupils study global issues and are invited to think about their role in the local, national and international communities. Many schools have strong links with partner schools abroad, allowing pupils to exchange information in an authentic context. Many also offer placements to teachers from overseas.

Your child may be offered the chance to take part in a visit abroad organised by the school and led by an experienced, specially trained teacher. Some secondary pupils will have the opportunity to go on work experience placements in Europe.

Gaelic education

Gaelic-medium education, where pupils are taught the entire curriculum through the medium of Gaelic, is available at nursery and primary levels. There are Gaelic parent and toddler groups and playgroups across the city. The Gaelic-medium unit is based at Tollcross Primary School, but caters for pupils from all over the city. Pupils attending the unit do not need

to have prior knowledge of Gaelic. Pupils who wish to study Gaelic at secondary level can transfer to James Gillespie's High School which offers Standard Grade and Higher courses. More information see the Gaelic Education pages.

Religious and moral education

Religious and Moral Education deals with the development of the pupil in relation to self awareness, relationships with others, and the realms of beliefs, values and practices which go to make up religious outlook on life. It makes an important contribution to the personal and social development of pupils.