- the acquisition of knowledge
- the development of a wide range of skills
- the understanding of key concepts
- the development of personal qualities, values and attitudes
- further development of literacy, numeracy and digital competence.
Pupils of YBB will be provided with a curriculum that seeks to develop them academically, practically, socially and culturally. This includes not only the formal programme of lessons, but also the “informal” program of enhanced learning opportunities which will prepare pupils for lifelong learning.
The organisation of the curriculum at each level, together with the approach to teaching, complies with the requirements of the National Curriculum and the statutory requirements of Welsh Government.
Foundation Phase
The Foundation Phase has 7 areas of learning:
- Personal and Social Development, Wellbeing and Cultural Diversity
- Language, Literacy and Communication Skills
- Welsh Language Development
- Mathematical Development
- Knowledge and Understanding of the World
- Physical Development
- Creative Development
The children will be given opportunities to develop their skills across the curriculum, building on their previous learning experiences, knowledge and skills. Children will learn through first hand experimental activities using indoor and outdoor environments that are fun, exciting, stimulating and safe places for them to learn. Children in Year 1 and Year 2 are also taught Religious Education.
Key Stage 2
Children from age 7-11 are taught within the year groups Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6, and study the National Curriculum.
The National Curriculum consists of subjects:
English, Mathematics, Science, Information Communication Technology (ICT), Welsh, Design and Technology (DT), Physical Development (PE), Religious Education (RE), Music, Art, History and Geography.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3 the following subjects are studied: English, Mathematics and Science (the Core subjects). In addition, the following Foundation subjects are studied: History, Geography, RE, French, Welsh, Art, Music, Drama, Technology, ICT, Games, PSE and PE.
All pupils have the opportunity to study Welsh culture within individual subjects. The school also organises an annual Eisteddfod.
Key Stage 4
At Key stage 4 pupils follow a compulsory curriculum of English, Mathematics, Science, Games, RE, Welsh and Welsh Baccalaureate. Pupils then choose from a variety of subjects via an initial free choice. These choices are then analysed and put into option blocks based on a best fit basis. Pupils can choose from GCSE, IVET’s and BTEC courses which are offered either at school or collaboratively with local providers.
At both Key Stages the school actively monitors and targets pupils to identify underachievement and provides support and a specific mentoring programme to help pupils with their KS4 studies.
14-19 Learning Pathways
The courses offered at YBB form part of a pupils 14-19 Learning Pathway and can lead onto further studies at Neath Port Talbot College or any post 16 provider.
The College offers the broadest range and choice of A levels, AS levels and Vocational Courses within the LA’s post 16 education provision.
YBB has strong links with the College and representatives will regularly visit the school to discuss issues with pupils and attend parent evenings. Many YBB pupils will also benefit from bursaries awarded by the College to assist them with their studies.
