At Horizons Academy, three curriculum threads run through everything we do:

  • Reading builds horizons
  • Language builds horizons
  • Numbers build horizons

These are the foundations for learning, confidence, and success in adult life.

Reading builds horizons

  • Daily reading – every class takes part in reading to build routine and a love of books
  • Phonics and early reading – taught through Read Write Inc (RWI) and Fresh Start, grouped by stage not age, so every child gets the right support
  • Reading lessons – guided comprehension, vocabulary work, and fluency practice through strategies like choral and paired reading
  • Horizons reading spine – a carefully chosen set of books, including classics and diverse modern texts, to ensure all pupils experience high-quality literature
  • Tracking progress – assessments such as Star Reader, comprehension tasks, and teacher judgement help us monitor growth and plan support

Language builds horizons

  • Vocabulary teaching – key words are taught, explained, and revisited across every subject
  • Oracy and communication – pupils practise speaking and listening in discussions, debates, presentations, and restorative conversations
  • Social communication skills – explicitly taught, including turn-taking, body language, and emotional expression
  • Language for learning – teachers model structured talk and sentence stems to help pupils explain their thinking
  • Language for life – role-play, life skills, and enrichment activities give practice in real-world communication, from conversations in the community to job interviews

Numbers build horizons

  • Daily maths practice – arithmetic and mental maths sessions help pupils build fluency and confidence with number facts
  • Structured maths curriculum – based on White Rose and NCETM resources, adapted for SEMH learners
  • Balanced learning – lessons combine fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving, with regular opportunities to revisit key concepts
  • Technology and games – tools like Times Tables Rock Stars make practice motivating and fun
  • Targeted interventions – pre-teaching, post-teaching, and small-group support ensure gaps are closed quickly

Why this matters?

Reading, language, and numeracy are not just subjects – they are life skills. They enable pupils to:

  • Access the wider curriculum
  • Communicate with confidence
  • Develop independence in daily life
  • Prepare for further education, employment, and adulthood

At Horizons Academy, these golden threads are woven into every lesson, every subject, and every opportunity – helping every pupil build a strong foundation for stability, engagement, and growth.