Approach to Learning
At Harris Academy Peckham our broad and knowledge-rich curriculum allows all students to become Geographers, Linguists, Writers, Artists, Coders, Laureates, Historians, Actors, Musicians and scholars.
But most importantly the curriculum encourages them to become masters of their own learning, providing them with the options to choose their pathway beyond the gates of Harris Academy Peckham.
Our broad curriculum at Key Stage 3 and our Key Stage 4 options pathway ensures we nuture every student’s potential. Through specific careers and post-16 advice, students can choose the best route for Key Stage 4 and beyond.
Lifelong independent learners
Our curriculum aims to create a love of learning and thirst for knowledge. Through our personal development curriculum, for example, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to be able to independently enhance their learning outside of the classroom, using the internet, our library and amenities within the local community.
The wider enrichment programme links with universities and workplaces, for example, providing students with further skills to become more independent and find enjoyment and fulfilment in all learning opportunities as they progress into early adulthood and beyond.
“The education provided by this school is transformational for many of its pupils.” Ofsted
Critical thinking and communication skills
Both in subject lessons and through the personal development curriculum, students are encouraged to problem-solve and develop their analytical and evaluation skills.
They are rewarded for questioning information and expressing ideas formally, clearly and objectively. Oracy is a key focus to ensure students become confident and coherent communicators. The enrichment on offer also helps students enhance their communication skills.
"We’ve been so impressed by the academic standards at the school. Our child has been encouraged to work independently and aim high." Parent, Year 9
Literacy and numeracy are at the core
We recognise that literacy and numeracy are fundamental to student learning across all subject areas.
Our WORD (writing, oracy and reading development) initiative ensures that students regularly undertake extended writing in lessons. Vocabulary is taught, revisited and regularly applied to develop student oracy, and the teaching of key reading skills is prioritised in all subject areas.
The Big Read in tutor time aims to promote a love of reading and enjoyment of fiction, because of the positive impact that reading for pleasure has on wellbeing and outcomes in adulthood.
Numeracy skills are prioritised across the curriculum to ensure students can master subject-specific knowledge. Through personal development, we also ensure students are financially capable and aware, to help them prepare for life beyond Harris Academy Peckham.
World-ready global citizens
Our curriculum encompasses all aspects of Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural development, and British values, to ensure students have the understanding and ability to stay safe in the world and leave a positive footprint within their local community, country and the world.
Lessons prepare students to be tolerant and respectful of all views and respond appropriately in situations where information may challenge personal beliefs.
Our incredible multi-cultural community at Harris Academy Peckham offers students to the unique opportunity to learn from other students and staff from a variety of cultures and backgrounds.
Our ethos of Leadership, Enquiry, Aspiration and Perseverance and our LEAP days provide our students with the foundations, knowledge and skills to fully immerse themselves across all areas of the globe when they leave us for post-16 education and beyond.
If you have any questions regarding our curriculum please email enquiries@harrispeckham.org.uk.
Parent, Year 7
Charlotte Evans – VP, Harris Academy Peckham
Ofsted
Parent, Year 9
Parent, Year 8
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