Educating for life in all its fullness

Situated in the heart of the Lake District, Borrowdale School's fantastic grounds and surroundings offer endless opportunities for learning and exploration. Learning should be fun and relevant. We strongly believe in 'Learning Outside the Classroom' and have a well-established Forest Schools programme and many outdoor field trips.

Our curriculum excites and stimulates children's imaginations and creative thinking. At Borrowdale School, we place English and literature at the heart of the curriculum. Pupils learn within the contexts of meaningful quality texts which provide a driver for units of learning across the subjects. Each year consists of six units - one for each half term. Progression for all subjects is evident from term to term, so that there is a clear process in which children acquire, practise and apply, and deepen learning.

Lessons are enriched with first-hand and practical experiences so that pupils learn through varied and rich experiences. The strong cross-curricular approach is further enhanced by themed-days and numerous other events. This makes our curriculum relevant and memorable because pupils understand the point to their learning and enjoy their education. 

Our curriculum goes beyond statutory requirements; it is wide and rich, and aims to equip the children with the knowledge, skills and values to successfully tackle the challenges of their future lives. It inspires the children to work hard, to persevere and to aim for the highest possible standards. 

"Leaders have established an innovative, creative curriculum which excites and inspires pupils. The rich diet of experiences supports pupils' personal and spiritual growth extremely well. The idyllic outdoor learning environment is used to full advantage." 

(SIAMS inspection 2019)

"Pupils have frequent opportunities to explore the natural world, experiment and take risks. They work collaboratively, relishing challenges and overcoming obstacles. As a result, they become articulate, confident learners who are able to recognise their place in the world and the way in which they can support others." 

(SIAMS inspection 2019)

"Pupils said they are taught to value learning, value each other and value themselves"

(Ofsted inspection 2018)

"Pupils appreciate the opportunities they have to broaden their horizons beyond the immediate locality with trips and residential visits."

(Ofsted inspection 2018)