Curriculum Information 2026-27 G Group (Year 3) Learning Through Topics The Junior School follows a one-week timetable and a topic-based curriculum. Learning across different subjects is often connected to the term’s topic, allowing pupils to explore ideas in depth and understand how knowledge and skills connect. Each topic begins by asking: What do we already know? What do we want to find out? Questions, discussion and discovery help shape the learning that follows. Trips, practical activities and first-hand experiences bring each topic to life, while pupils continue to develop essential knowledge and core skills across the curriculum.
Our approach to learning Every pupil brings different strengths, experiences and needs to their learning. At St Chris, we combine ambitious academic goals with deep learning, curiosity and meaningful engagement. We provide the right balance of support and challenge for each pupil, helping them to make progress, develop confidence and grow academically, socially and personally.
Our Year At A Glance Autumn: Exploring Europe Pupils explore the countries, cultures and landscapes of Europe, developing their understanding of both human and physical geography. Using maps and atlases, they investigate countries and capital cities while learning how geography influences people's lives and communities. A special experience: Independent research into a European country of choice.
Spring: The Celts Pupils step back in time to discover how the Celts lived in Britain over 2,000 years ago. They explore roundhouses, hillforts, daily life and Celtic beliefs through history, English and art, bringing the past to life through creative and practical learning. A special experience: Visit to a local heritage site.
Summer: The Living Rainforest Pupils investigate the world's rainforests, discovering where they are found and why they are so important. They explore rainforest habitats, indigenous communities and environmental sustainability, considering how people can help protect these unique ecosystems.
Tracking Progress Teachers regularly observe and assess pupils’ learning, building a clear understanding of each pupil’s strengths, progress and areas for development. Half-termly meetings with the Head of the Junior School help identify where an individual pupil may benefit from additional support or greater challenge. Small classes and support from teaching assistants also allow for focused group work where needed. Families receive two academic reports each year, alongside a parent consultation every term and teachers are always available for individual meetings.
Homework Homework is meaningful, manageable and connected to pupils’ learning in school. Pupils are offered a selection of age-appropriate enrichment activities, typically choosing three or four to complete. These may involve creative projects, practical challenges or research, with some offering opportunities for the whole family to take part.
Weekly Hours Per Subject This graphic represents a typical week in G Group.
English 6 Hours Science 1 Hour 25 mins PSHE & RSE 50 mins
French 25 mins
Maths 5 Hours 10 mins Humanities 1 Hour 25 mins
Computing Games 1.5 50 Hours mins
Music 25 mins
Art & DT 50 mins Swimming 45 mins
Strings 25 mins Forest School 1 Hour 40 mins
Computing 50 mins
PE 30 mins
Core Learning
taught by class teachers English (including guided reading and phonics) 6 Hours
Maths 5 Hours 10 mins
English is closely connected to topic learning, providing inspiration for reading, discussion and writing. Pupils explore a wide range of fiction, non-fiction and poetry while developing spelling, punctuation, grammar, vocabulary and comprehension skills. Focus: Reading • Writing • Vocabulary • Grammar • Spelling Using the Power Maths approach, pupils build confidence and fluency with number while developing reasoning and problem-solving skills. Key areas include arithmetic, fractions, measurement, money, time, statistics and shape, encouraging practical application of mathematical thinking. Focus: Fluency • Problem-solving • Reasoning • Real-life application
Science 1 Hour 25 mins
Pupils develop scientific knowledge through practical investigations and enquiry. Topics include rocks and soils, light, forces and magnets, plants, and animals including humans. Hands-on experiences help pupils ask questions, make observations and explain their findings. Focus: Question • Observe • Investigate • Explain
Humanities (Geography/ History) 1 Hour 25 mins
Humanities learning is woven through our termly topics and encourages curiosity about the world and the past. Pupils explore historical sources, compare different time periods and develop geographical understanding through map work, cultural studies and environmental enquiry. Focus: Evidence • Comparison • Maps • Discussion • Enquiry
Creative, Personal and Technology taught by class teachers
Art & Design Technology 55 mins
Art and design technology are inspired by our topics and encourage creativity and self-expression. Pupils explore a range of materials and techniques including drawing, painting, pottery and mixed media while developing practical skills and artistic confidence.
PSHE & RSE 50 mins
PSHE and RSE support pupils in staying safe, happy and healthy while developing positive and respectful relationships. Following the SCARF programme, Year 3 learning includes emotions, friendships, personal boundaries, online safety, respect for differences, responsibilities and growing independence. Teaching takes place in a safe and inclusive environment, and pupils are never expected to share personal experiences. Parents are informed in advance about RSE content.
Computing 50 mins
Our “MR P” ICT curriculum supports students in developing essential digital skills through a creative approach. Using the DARES model (Design, Apply, Refine, Evaluate, Share), students plan, create, improve, reflect on and share their work. Projects include programming animations, filming with green screens, exploring data and creating presentations, helping pupils become thoughtful and capable digital learners.
Creative and Languages
taught by subject specialist teachers
French 25 mins
Pupils build confidence in speaking and listening through games, songs, stories and practical activities. They develop vocabulary, grammar and sentence-building skills while becoming increasingly familiar with spoken and written French.
Music 25 mins
Pupils develop musical awareness through singing, rhythm games, listening activities and performance. Lessons focus on pitch, pulse, rhythm and coordination while encouraging creativity, confidence and enjoyment of music-making.
Learning beyond the classroom taught by subject specialist teachers
Strings 25 mins
Pupils learn to play the violin as a class, developing coordination, concentration and perseverance. Through performance, improvisation and ensemble playing, they explore rhythm, pitch, dynamics and musical expression while building confidence as musicians.
PE 25 mins
Pupils develop fundamental movement through: Fitness • Creative Dance • Outdoor and Adventurous Activities • Gymnastics • Tennis • Athletics Pupils develop their attacking and defensive skills while learning about fair play, cooperation and enjoyment of sport.
Games 50 mins
Our programme develops sporting skills, tactical awareness and teamwork. Autumn: Football & Netball Spring: Rugby & Hockey Summer: Cricket & Rounders Pupils develop their attacking and defensive skills while learning about fair play, cooperation and enjoyment of sport.
Swimming 45 mins
Swimming focuses on developing confidence, stamina and competence across all four strokes. Pupils work towards swimming 50 metres with ease, improving technique and water confidence while exploring activities such as artistic swimming and water polo.
Forest School 1 Hour 40 mins
Forest School encourages curiosity, resilience and independence through practical outdoor learning. Pupils work with natural materials, learn knots and lashings, investigate habitats and life cycles, and develop a deeper understanding of the natural world through exploration and discovery.