At Anston Hillcrest Primary School, we aim to develop empowered individuals who are successful learners and responsible citizens both in school and in the wider world. We are child-centred, inclusive and distinctive and we ‘Make a Difference’.
Together we:
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Strive to provide a happy and safe learning environment where everyone is accepted and has a sense of belonging.
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Value the mental health and well-being of all
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Create an inclusive culture, with an ambition of success for all.
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Provide an ambitious knowledge-based curriculum, enabling children to meet the challenges of an ever-changing, diverse world and for them to confidently - Make a Difference.
Our school rules and core values are at the heart of all we do and are crucial in building relationships and steering effective learning. In partnership with parents, carers and the wider community, we promote and sustain these values in our school to enable us to realise our vision.
Our children leave us as confident and caring young people, ready for the challenges of KS3 and beyond. They are ambitious to achieve more and eager to find out more.
We are regularly involved in local and national charity events, these provide opportunities for our children to understand how they can contribute beyond the local community and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
Personal Development Strategic Plan
We have created a strategic plan that outlines our Personal Development offer here at Anston Hillcrest. This is reviewed on an annual basis and is adapted to meet any changing school community needs.
Curriculum Design
A Broad and Balanced Curriculum
We ensure that our curriculum goes beyond core subjects and actively promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural (SMSC) development. Subjects like PSHE, RE, and citizenship are meaningfully integrated into our teaching. The addition of No Outsiders into our curriculum offer has enhanced learning for our children around the protected characteristics.
Development of Values
Our school values underpin the ethos at Anston Hillcrest, our children know and uphold our values on a daily basis. Values Leader assemblies celebrate where children and staff demonstrate these values within their daily school life.
We embed the teaching of British Values—democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance—into daily school life and the curriculum.
We actively teach, model and promote respect for diversity and inclusion.
Character Education
Resilience and Emotional Wellbeing
In school, we implement programs like mindfulness sessions, and emotional regulation techniques. These equip children with the skills to manage stress and overcome challenges. Through regular mindfulness practices and lessons focused on developing coping strategies, we help children build emotional resilience and navigate the pressures they may face now and in the future.
Life skills
Underpinned by our school values, we teach essential life skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving through well considered activities including our school council, respect rangers, and extracurricular clubs including participation in Children’s University.
Community Engagement
We encourage children to actively participate in local community events, charity work, and fundraising.
Through regular involvement in these activities, children develop a strong sense of responsibility and contribution to society. This hands-on experience helps them understand the impact they can make and teaches them how to make a commitment to making a difference in their community.
Well-being and Mental Health
Mental Health and Well-Being
As part of our PSHE curriculum our children learn about strategies for how to manage their well-being. They understand about sources of support from both within school and outside of school. Where children need more of a bespoke offer, this is undertaken and where necessary, external support and advice is offered. We take part in National events such as Mental Health Day where we reinforce the importance of positive mental health.
Positive Behaviour
We have three school rules which are known by the children, modelled and reinforced by staff which lead to a positive and inclusive culture where good behaviour is the norm. These are Ready, Respectful, Safe.
We have robust relationships and behaviour policies that include restorative practices and anti-bullying initiatives. This work in school is supported by our PSHE curriculum and assembly themes and foci.
Enrichment Opportunities
Extracurricular Activities
We offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities all of which allow our children to explore their interests and talents.
A large number of our children also participate in out of school extracurricular activities; these are also celebrated within school at class and whole school level. Such activities are used as evidence for the children who participate in the Children’s University Programme.
We carefully plan for out of school visits and residential trips, to support the holistic wider development of children. These adapt and change to the needs of the school and each cohort.
Cultural Capital
Along with our well-considered curriculum offer, our planned visits and experiences enhance children’s understanding of the world. These may include museum visits, cultural festivals, visiting speakers, and partnerships with external organisations that deepen their cultural awareness.
Our Workforce Wednesday assemblies bring in people from both the local and wider community to share their experiences of the world of work. These allow our children to see what opportunities lie within the local community and beyond. It allows them to ask questions about different jobs and understand career pathways.
Pupil Voice and Leadership
Empowerment through Leadership
Within school we have a variety of pupil leadership responsibilities. These include Student Council, Prefects and our Respect Rangers. We encourage children to take on leadership roles, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to school decisions and policies. Within our pupil leadership groups, we have representation from all groups of children. At key times in the school year some of our children take on lead roles in school fairs and other fundraising events.
Our pupil groups lead assemblies sharing their commitment to making Anston Hillcrest, the very best version of itself.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Celebrate Diversity
We embed an ethos of inclusivity through our work with the No Outsiders programme, ensuring that diversity in race, culture, gender, religion, and ability is fully valued and celebrated. Our curriculum, assemblies, and school celebrations reflect this commitment, showcasing the diversity within our school and the wider society. Through our ‘No Outsiders’ curriculum, and underpinned by our school values, we actively teach acceptance and respect, creating an environment where every child feels seen, respected, and included.
Support for Vulnerable Children
We have robust systems in place to support vulnerable children, including those with SEND, EAL, and those eligible for pupil premium. We tailor interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring they thrive in all aspects of school life. Our staff closely monitor their progress and provide targeted support, such as one-on-one sessions, small group work, and specialist resources, to help them overcome barriers and reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
Healthy Lifestyles
Physical Health
We promote physical activity, nutrition, and wellbeing as part of our wider curriculum offer. We encourage healthy living through balanced school meals, active playtimes, and engaging PE initiatives that inspire all children to adopt healthy habits.
We engage in a number of Trust wide sporting events and competitions that promote teamwork and collaboration.
Personal Development Showcase
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Personal Development - School Blog
