It’s an exciting time for us at Ysgol Gymraeg Teilo Sant and for education in Wales as we embark on our journey into the new curriculum. 

We are committed to further developing a curriculum that will enthuse learners and provide the foundation of skills they will need to flourish and succeed in a forever changing, modern world.

Our learners are at the heart of what we do at Ysgol Gymraeg Teilo Sant, and pupil voice plays an important role in the planning and decision making process of our teaching and learning in order to ensure that classroom content engages our learners, is relevant to their interests and needs, and is purposefully both knowledge and skill rich. 

We strive to offer experiential, active learning experiences, both within the classroom and beyond that inspire our pupils, parents and staff and help develop practical, capable and ambitious learners that feel confident in applying their learning as they continue on their journey.

At the very core of our new curriculum are the four purposes, a shared vision and aspiration for learners across Wales. These are the foundation of all planning and decision making; from what we teach, how we teach it, and why.

All our children will be supported to develop as:

 Ambitious, capable learners who:

  • set themselves high standards and seek and enjoy challenge
  • are building up a body of knowledge and have the skills to connect and apply that knowledge in different contexts
  • are questioning and enjoy solving problems
  • can communicate effectively in different forms and settings, using both Welsh and English
  • can explain the ideas and concepts they are learning about
  • can use number effectively in different contexts
  • understand how to interpret data and apply mathematical concepts
  • use digital technologies creatively to communicate, find and analyse information
  • undertake research and evaluate critically what they find

and are ready to learn throughout their lives

Enterprising, creative contributors who:

  •  connect and apply their knowledge and skills to create ideas and products
  • think creatively to reframe and solve problems
  • identify and grasp opportunities
  • take measured risks
  • lead and play different roles in teams effectively and responsibly
  • express ideas and emotions through different media
  • give of their energy and skills so that other people will benefit

and are ready to play a full part in life and work

Ethical, informed citizens who:

  •  find, evaluate and use evidence in forming views
  • engage with contemporary issues based upon their knowledge and values
  • understand and exercise their human and democratic responsibilities and rights
  • understand and consider the impact of their actions when making choices and acting
  • are knowledgeable about their culture, community, society and the world, now and in the past
  • respect the needs and rights of others, as a member of a diverse society
  • show their commitment to the sustainability of the planet

and are ready to be citizens of Wales and the world

Healthy, confident individuals who:

  •  have secure values and are establishing their spiritual and ethical beliefs
  • are building their mental and emotional well-being by developing confidence, resilience and empathy
  • apply knowledge about the impact of diet and exercise on physical and mental health in their daily lives
  • know how to find the information and support to keep safe and well
  • take part in physical activity
  • take measured decisions about lifestyle and manage risk
  • have the confidence to participate in performance
  • form positive relationships based upon trust and mutual respect
  • face and overcome challenge
  • have the skills and knowledge to manage everyday life as independently as they can

and are ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society.

Come and meet Undeg Uchelgeisiol, Meilyr Mentrus, Elliw Egwyddorol, Iona Iach and Hywel Hyderus!

To support our learners’ understanding of the four purposes and our vision for the new Curriculum for Wales, we’ve introduced our four purpose characters across Ysgol Teilo Sant. Pupils will first be introduced to these characters during their early years, and over time will familiarise with the different aspects and personalities of each of the characters and understand what they need to do to be similarly successful learners. The characters are alive throughout the school; inside the classroom and throughout our provision, as signage on the playground and they feature as regular foundation to the many learning conversations had between the children and teaching staff.

Developing the Curriculum: What are the Aims?

These four purposes are underpinned by integral skills that we wish to develop throughout our learning and teaching experiences. 

Our learners deserve the opportunity to be curious and inquisitive, exploring and developing as creative innovators. 

They should be supported to seek links between their learning and experiences, identify new opportunities and strategies. 

We want to encourage our learners to be critical thinkers by asking meaningful questions, evaluating information, evidence and situations, and mastering objective decision making; being able to plan goals, reflect on their progress and adapt across disciplines. 

We want our learners to grow in both confidence and independence, with healthy emotional understanding and an ethical heart and mindset. 

We want them to understand the purpose and value of learning, exactly how we learn and the fulfilment that comes with it – igniting a passion for lifelong development and a growth mindset.

Our curriculum include 6 Areas of Learning and Experience:

  • Languages, Literacy & Communication
  • Mathematics and Numeracy
  • Science and Technology
  • Humanities
  • Health & Well-being
  • Expressive Arts

In addition to these, there are three cross-curricular responsibilities that should be present across all Areas of Learning and Experience:

  • Literacy
  • Numeracy
  • Digital Competence

Broad Progression Steps replace prescriptive year group related expectations, accommodating our belief that every learning journey is unique and develops at an individual pace.

More information on the new Curriculum for Wales and the changes to expect can be found here: https://gov.wales/education-changing