Big Studies are cross-curricular projects carried out in class groups linking to an overarching theme for the whole school to respond to for a half a term.
This is the way our students learn about history, geography, religious studies, politics, and current affairs (and other things) through relevant contexts that are meaningful to them as they are about worldwide challenges affecting our earth, society past, present and future.
Project based learning allows for students to develop agency and autonomy and to build a body of research which has links and connections to lots of other types of learning about the world around them.
Big studies change every half term and the deep dive learning that each class take through their research is entirely made up from class discussions and collective questioning, which leads to small group thinking, questioning, researching, making and information sharing.
Big Studies is brought together at the end of each half term through the Big Share, where all participants of the class project present their learning in various forms to the school community of pupils, parents and teachers.
This could be in the form of a play, a piece of creative writing, a presentation or an exhibition. Most often pupils will choose several of those languages of expression to share their knowledge.
Big Studies Topics for 2024-2025
Myself
A study of how our brains and bodies work to help us thrive mentally and physically.
Our Planet, Our Choice
A study into the impact human beings have on planet earth.
Nature and the Natural World
A biological and ecological study of nature, including land, seas, plants, animals and living things.
Money, Enterprise and Innovation
A study of past, present and future inventions and innovators.
Rights and Responsibilities
A study of the lessons learned from historical, political, and cultural variances in human rights and responsibilities around the world.
Events that changed the way we live
A study of important historical events which affected the way societies and cultures developed, such as World Wars and changes in Monarchy in the UK.
