Our Curriculum

Classroom at King's Cross Academy Primary School

The Academy’s approach to learning is distinctive, challenging and rigorous. We are determined that all our children will make exceptional progress in developing the skills, knowledge, understanding and attitudes needed for high-quality learning.

The statements below summarise the basic entitlement, values, aims and objectives that the King’s Cross Academy curriculum seeks to embody. We also recognise that the curriculum experienced by the children does not just include the planned curriculum, but involves the so-called ‘hidden curriculum’ of relationships, ethos, informal learning and outside school hours learning.

Curriculum Vision

At King’s Cross Academy, we believe that education should develop both knowledge and character. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that every child acquires the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to succeed academically, while also developing the values, confidence and personal qualities needed to thrive in modern society.

We want our pupils to leave King’s Cross Academy as articulate communicators, thoughtful citizens, ambitious learners and compassionate individuals. Through a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum, children learn about the world around them, understand their place within it and develop the confidence to make a positive contribution to their communities.

Our curriculum reflects the unique context of our school and the rich opportunities available within the King’s Cross area. We believe that learning should be meaningful, connected and engaging. Children are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, solve problems, collaborate with others and communicate their ideas with confidence.

The curriculum experienced by children extends beyond individual lessons and subjects. It includes the relationships they build, the values they encounter, the experiences they enjoy and the culture that surrounds them each day. Together, these elements help children to flourish academically, socially and personally.
A Values Led Curriculum
At King’s Cross Academy, learning is organised around a series of carefully designed enquiry questions. Each half term, children explore a key question that is linked to one of our school values:
- Courage
- Respect
- Kindness
- Integrity
- Endurance
- Aspiration
These questions provide a meaningful context for learning across the curriculum and encourage children to make connections between subjects, ideas and experiences.

The enquiry question acts as a thread that runs throughout the half term. Whilst each subject retains its own distinct knowledge, concepts and disciplinary approaches, learning is brought together through a shared focus that encourages curiosity, discussion and reflection.

Through these enquiries, children are encouraged to explore significant people, events, ideas and issues from different perspectives. They learn to ask thoughtful questions, consider evidence, listen to others and develop their own informed viewpoints.

By organising learning in this way, we help children understand that knowledge is connected, that learning has purpose and that the values we promote in school are relevant to the wider world.
Bringing learning to life

At King’s Cross Academy, learning is designed to be inspiring, meaningful and memorable. Each half term, every project begins with an exciting starting point, called an initial experience. Initial experiences are carefully planned experiences that spark curiosity, builds enthusiasm, and helps children connect emotionally with the big question they will be exploring. These immersive moments – whether a visit, a performance, or a hands-on investigation – give pupils a vivid entry point into their learning journey.

Every project culminates in a learning presentation – a chance for children to share their achievements with an authentic audience. These final presentations not only celebrate progress but also give pupils the opportunity to demonstrate their learning with confidence, pride and a real sense of purpose.

By combining inspiring beginnings with meaningful outcomes, we bring learning to life in a way that excites, challenges and empowers every child in our learning community.
Curriculum maps

If you would like further information about our curriculum, please contact the school office who will be happy to direct your enquiry to the appropriate member of staff.

Click here to read some of our individual curriculum maps from across different year groups.