This CRST rationale explains the principles of how we have designed the curriculum for pupils and how these principles underpin how we have selected the things we want them to learn.  

This subject-specific rationale demonstrates how we have selected what we want pupils to learn and how the order has been arrived at so that pupils make progress in their learning.  We offer Child Development at Key Stage 4 and often students continue this at college for Key Stage 5 and this may be an area to develop moving forward.

Our vision for KS4 Child Development 

Child Development subjects really develop the ‘knowledge’ part of KASE which then helps with application when understanding the development of a child from pre-conception to the age of 5, which is consolidated through a variety of means such as discussion, specialist information and exam-based resources. It also builds on attributes as quite often the students must work out of their comfort zone which can strengthen their resilience, as some topics can be difficult to grasp.  We strive for our lessons to be engaging, relevant to real life and most of all fun. We use opportunities for visitors such as midwives, nursery managers, and dental nurses. 

For Child Development we would like to give them more experiences to showcase careers in child related areas and to show the relevance of the subject. Expectations are high which generally lead to good outcomes, and the course we offer at Key Stage 4 has 2 elements of coursework, which allows opportunities for students who have strength in that area. 

As a department we continuously reflect at lessons to and review the curriculum to ensure that students are engaged and being challenged. We also like to give opportunities for students to observe and plan activities for children of staff. By observing development as a group in a safe space, it then arms the students with key skills to carry out their own observations which will count towards their final GCSE.  We keep up to date with the latest on medical research and developmental links and health issues which adds to our expert knowledge. We want our students to learn those life skills which will help them to make good social and health decisions and ultimately successful parents and carers. 

The content of our Curriculum for Child Development 

Year 10 curriculum focusses on pre-conceptual care, ante-natal care, pregnancy, labour and birth. Students build on some of their previous RSE knowledge as well as being introduced to the scientific processes, and roles of key health professionals. 

In Year 10, students also complete some coursework elements related to safety, equipment and nutritional needs of children, and have some practical opportunities around food / bottle preparation. 

Observations of children, and consideration of developmental milestones, help students to be aware of the abilities of children at different ages and can help prepare for their own observations, and planning of play activities, which also counts towards coursework elements. 

Child health is a theme running through the course and links with all aspects. 

Students can take the exam in January of Year 11 to allow for resit opportunities if necessary.