The World Around Us
Our Commitment
We believe that children are naturally curious about the world around them. Through exciting, engaging and meaningful learning experiences, we encourage pupils to ask questions, investigate ideas and develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their community and the wider world.
As a child-centred, safe and inclusive school, we provide opportunities for every child to explore, discover and learn through first-hand experiences. We aim to nurture curiosity, creativity and a sense of wonder while supporting and challenging pupils to achieve their full potential.
The World Around Us (WAU) is one of the six Areas of Learning within the Northern Ireland Curriculum and brings together three important areas of study:
- Geography
- History
- Science and Technology
Through these areas, children develop knowledge, skills and understanding that help them make sense of the world both past and present, while preparing them for the future.
Our Aim
Through The World Around Us, we aim to:
- Inspire curiosity and a love of learning.
- Encourage children to ask questions and investigate the world around them.
- Develop skills in observation, enquiry, research and problem-solving.
- Help pupils understand their place within their local community and the wider world.
- Foster respect for people, places and the environment.
- Support and challenge every child to become a confident, independent learner.
Learning Through The World Around Us
Children learn best when they are actively involved in their learning. Throughout their time at Richmount, pupils explore a wide range of engaging topics and themes that make meaningful connections across the curriculum.
Through investigation, research, discussion and practical activities, children develop an understanding of how the world works, how societies have changed over time, and how science and technology continue to shape our lives.
Learning is designed to encourage children to think critically, solve problems, work collaboratively and make informed decisions.
What Children Learn
Foundation Stage
Children begin exploring the world around them through play, investigation and first-hand experiences. They develop early knowledge, understanding and skills in Geography, History and Science and Technology through topics that are relevant and meaningful to their everyday lives.
Key Stages 1 and 2
As pupils progress through the school, learning is organised through four interconnected strands:
- Interdependence
- Place
- Movement and Energy
- Change Over Time
These strands help children make connections between different areas of learning while developing a broad and balanced understanding of the world.
Geography
Through Geography, pupils develop an understanding of places, people and environments both locally and globally.
Children learn about:
- Their local area and wider community.
- Different places and cultures around the world.
- Maps and geographical skills.
- Weather, environmental issues and sustainability.
- The relationship between people and their environment.
As a school at the heart of the community, we encourage children to appreciate their local surroundings while developing an awareness of the wider world and their role within it.
History
History helps children understand how the past has shaped the present.
Through the study of significant events, people and societies, pupils develop an understanding of:
- Chronology and the passage of time.
- Change and continuity.
- Cause and effect.
- Historical enquiry and evidence.
- Different perspectives of the past.
By exploring history, children gain a greater appreciation of how communities, traditions and societies have evolved over time.
Science and Technology
Science and Technology encourages children to investigate, explore and discover.
Pupils are encouraged to:
- Ask questions about the world around them.
- Plan and carry out investigations.
- Observe, predict and reach conclusions.
- Develop scientific thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Understand the role of science and technology in everyday life.
Through practical investigations and hands-on experiences, children develop confidence, curiosity and an appreciation of how scientific knowledge influences the world around them.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Richmount Primary School, we believe that some of the most memorable learning experiences happen beyond the classroom.
Educational visits, outdoor learning opportunities and visits from external organisations help bring learning to life and deepen children's understanding of topics being studied.
We are fortunate to have extensive outdoor spaces which provide valuable opportunities for investigation, exploration and discovery. Through outdoor learning, pupils can:
- Observe and explore the natural environment.
- Develop skills in investigation and enquiry.
- Record and analyse findings.
- Work collaboratively to solve problems.
- Develop a greater appreciation for the world around them.
These experiences help foster curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning.
Working Together
Parents play an important role in helping children develop an interest in the world around them. Encouraging children to ask questions, explore nature, visit local places of interest, discuss current events and share new experiences can significantly enrich their learning.
By working together within our school community, we can help every child become a curious, knowledgeable and confident learner who is equipped to understand and contribute positively to the world around them.