At Thurcroft Infant School, we aim to provide a safe and supportive learning environment, where everyone’s contribution makes a difference. We believe in building respectful relationships and teaching our children to become the best that they can be. This forms the school’s vision:

‘We will be kind, work hard and be the BEST we can be’

 

Our school rules and core values are at the heart of all we do and are crucial in building relationships and steering effective learning. In partnership with parents, carers and the wider community, we promote and sustain these values in our school to enable us to realise our vision.

Our children leave us as confident and caring young people, ready for the challenges of KS2 and beyond. They are ambitious to achieve more and eager to find out more.

We are regularly involved in local and national charity events, these provide opportunities for our children to understand how they can contribute beyond the local community and have a positive impact on the lives of others.

 

 

 Personal Development Strategic Plan

We have created a strategic plan that outlines our Personal Development offer here at Thurcroft Infant School.  This is reviewed on an annual basis and is adapted to meet any changing school community needs.

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Curriculum Design

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A Broad and Balanced Curriculum

We ensure that our curriculum goes beyond core subjects and actively promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural (SMSC) development. Subjects like PSHE, RE, and citizenship are meaningfully integrated into our teaching.

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Development of Values

Our school values underpin the ethos at Thurcroft Infant School, our children know and uphold our values on a daily basis. Values assemblies celebrate where children and staff demonstrate these values within their daily school life.

We embed the teaching of British Values—democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance—into daily school life and the curriculum.

We actively teach, model and promote respect for diversity and inclusion.

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Character Education​

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Resilience and Emotional Wellbeing

In school, we implement programs like mindfulness sessions and emotional regulation techniques. These equip children with the skills to manage stress and overcome challenges. Through regular mindfulness practices and lessons focused on developing coping strategies, we help children build emotional resilience and navigate the pressures they may face now and in the future.

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Life skills

Underpinned by our school values, we teach essential life skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving through well considered activities including our school council and extracurricular clubs including participation in HAF holiday clubs.

Our characteristics of Learning instil motivation to not only succeed, but also to become lifelong learners.

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Community Engagement

We encourage children to actively participate in local community events, charity work, and fundraising.

Through regular involvement in these activities, children develop a strong sense of responsibility and contribution to society. This hands-on experience helps them to understand the impact they can make and teaches them how to make a commitment to making a difference in their community.

 

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Well-being and Mental Health

 

Mental Health and Well-Being

As part of our PSHE curriculum our children learn about strategies for how to manage their well-being. They understand about sources of support from both within school and outside of school. Where children need more of a bespoke offer, this is undertaken and where necessary, external support and advice is offered. We take part in National events such as Mental Health Day where we reinforce the importance of positive mental health.

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Positive Behaviour

We have three school rules which are known by the children, modelled and reinforced by staff which lead to a positive and inclusive culture where good behaviour is the norm. These are Ready, Respectful, Safe.

We have robust relationships and behaviour policies that include restorative practices and anti-bullying initiatives. This work in school is supported by our PSHE curriculum and assembly themes and foci.

At the end of each term we celebrate and reward children who have been 'Always Good' and they join Mrs Harper, Mrs Arnold and Ms Garratty  at the special table for lunch. 

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Enrichment Opportunities

 

Extracurricular Activities

We offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities all of which allow our children to explore their interests and talents.

A large number of our children also participate in out of school extracurricular activities; these are also celebrated within school at class and whole school level by visiting the ‘Proud Pod’.

We carefully plan for visitors into school and out of school visits, to support the holistic wider development of children. These may adapt and change to the needs of the school and each cohort.

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Cultural Capital

Along with our well-considered curriculum offer, our planned visits and experiences enhance children’s understanding of the world. These may include museum visits, cultural festivals, visiting speakers, and partnerships with external organisations that deepen their cultural awareness.

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Pupil Voice and Leadership

 

Empowerment through Leadership

Within school we have a variety of pupil leadership responsibilities. These include Student Council, milk monitors, line leaders and lunchtime helpers. We encourage children to take on leadership roles, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to school decisions and policies. Within our pupil leadership groups, we have representation from all groups of children.

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Inclusivity and Diversity

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Celebrate Diversity

We embed an ethos of inclusivity through our RE and PHSE curriculum, ensuring that diversity in race, culture, gender, religion, and ability is fully valued and celebrated. Our curriculum, assemblies, and school celebrations reflect this commitment, showcasing the diversity within our school and the wider society. Through our PSHE curriculum, and underpinned by our school values, we actively teach acceptance and respect, creating an environment where every child feels seen, respected, and included.​

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Support for Vulnerable Children

We have robust systems in place to support vulnerable children, including those with SEND, EAL, and those eligible for pupil premium. We tailor interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring they thrive in all aspects of school life. Our staff closely monitor their progress and provide targeted support, such as one-on-one sessions, small group work, and specialist resources, to help them overcome barriers and reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.

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Healthy Lifestyles

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​Physical Health

We promote physical activity, nutrition, and wellbeing as part of our wider curriculum offer. We encourage healthy living through balanced school meals, active playtimes, and engaging PE initiatives that inspire all children to adopt healthy habits.

We engage in a number of sporting events and competitions that promote teamwork and collaboration.