Curriculum Aims

ACE your learning: Agency, Character, Enrichment

Rooted in a reward-first culture, Tuxford’s curriculum helps every student learn and develop through Agency, Character, and Enrichment, building the skills, confidence, and experiences needed to thrive now and in the future.

  • Agency: Develops as an independent learner with a love of learning, the knowledge and skills to think critically, make informed choices, and succeed in future pathways.
  • Character: Becomes an individual of strong character who feels supported, values others, and grows in confidence.
  • Enrichment: Grows as an enriched young person through a wide range of opportunities that foster friendships, curiosity, and skills that enhance their lives both now and in the future.

Agency

We want every student to grow into a confident, independent learner who is ready for the future. We prioritise hiring subject specialists who bring passion and expertise to every lesson. This ensures learning is engaging, purposeful, and gives students opportunities to think critically, solve problems, and apply knowledge.

Our carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich curriculum builds skills and understanding step by step and year on year. Teachers regularly check learning so students know what they have mastered, what to improve, and how to take the next step. Reading is prioritised across subjects to help students access challenging material and develop confidence as independent learners.

A broad and balanced education, offering students increasing choice as they progress, choice, underpins everything we do:

  • Key Stage 3: Creative arts, humanities, languages, technology, computing, and core subjects (English, maths, science, PE) build a strong foundation.
  • Key Stage 4: A wide range of subject options alongside core GCSEs allows students to discover their strengths and plan confidently for future pathways.
  • Key Stage 5: Students specialise further with an extensive range of  A-levels and Level 3 vocational qualifications, preparing for university, apprenticeships, or employment.

Our curriculum is ambitious and inclusive. All students — including those with SEND, disadvantaged backgrounds, or who are or have been in care — can access the same high-quality education and thrive. It also develops essential life skills, including teamwork, communication, digital literacy, problem-solving, and independent thinking. Respect, responsibility, and British values are embedded across subjects, preparing students to contribute positively to society.

Character

Personal development is central to our curriculum. Students in Key Stage 3 have weekly Global Awareness lessons to reflect on values and study Philosophy and Ethics to explore moral and ethical questions. RSHE is delivered through science, global awareness, philosophy and ethics lessons, and Form Time (see our RSHE policy).

Form Time supports wellbeing, personal growth, and character development daily. Students’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural awareness is woven throughout the curriculum, alongside character attributes such as conscientiousness, open-mindedness, resilience, and engagement with others. High-quality relationships between staff and students underpin everything we do, helping students feel supported, valued, and confident to take risks in their learning.

Alongside lessons, students take part in enrichment opportunities such as sports fixtures, drama productions, STEM clubs, and leadership roles, helping them broaden their horizons, develop curiosity, and strengthen character. Achievements are recognised through our rewards system including the Tuxford Awards.

Enrichment

Enrichment is a key part of school life. Beyond academic study, students have access to a wide range of opportunities that develop new skills, complement lessons, and enhance personal growth.

Our enrichment programme includes:

  • Clubs and societies: Sport, music, STEM, drama, and creative arts.
  • Trips and residentials: Memorable experiences that broaden horizons, e.g., Year 9 London residential.
  • Student leadership and community action: Opportunities to take responsibility and make a difference.
  • Super-curricular activities: Subject-focused clubs, workshops, visiting speakers, and guided study.
  • Sports fixtures and drama productions: Participation, performance, and competition.
  • Community links: Engagement with local clubs and activities in our rural environment.

Enrichment helps students develop curiosity, friendships, resilience, independence, teamwork, and communication, preparing them for future education and careers. All students, including those with SEND or in care, are supported to access enrichment opportunities so that every experience is inclusive and meaningful.

Further Information

Please see each year group page to learn more about our curriculum. Information is updated at set times during the year; teachers retain flexibility to respond to students’ needs, guided by the curriculum rather than limited by it. The website provides a general guide rather than a definitive record.