Year 3 marks an important stage in children's education as they begin Key Stage 2, build upon the foundations established in Key Stage 1 and develop greater independence and confidence in their learning.
At Otterburn Primary School & Nursery, we provide a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum that builds upon children's prior knowledge, skills and understanding. We encourage pupils to become curious, confident and resilient learners who enjoy exploring new ideas, asking questions and developing their understanding of the world around them.
Throughout Year 3, children continue to strengthen their reading, writing and mathematical skills while developing their ability to reason, solve problems and apply their learning in different contexts. They are encouraged to become increasingly fluent readers, develop their written communication and build secure mathematical understanding, including multiplication and division.
As children move into Key Stage 2, they are supported to take greater responsibility for their learning, develop organisational skills and approach new challenges with confidence. Opportunities to explore subjects in greater depth, develop subject-specific vocabulary and make connections between different areas of learning help children build secure foundations for future learning.
Alongside their academic development, pupils have opportunities to develop teamwork, communication and responsibility through collaborative activities, practical experiences and contributions to school life. We encourage children to recognise their strengths, explore their interests and develop positive attitudes towards learning.
Inclusion and Individual Learning Needs
We recognise that children develop and learn at different rates and that not all pupils will be working at age-related expectations. Our teaching is adapted to reflect individual starting points, including the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
We maintain high aspirations for every child, providing appropriate support, challenge and opportunities to revisit and secure earlier learning where needed. This enables pupils to access a broad and ambitious curriculum, build upon their achievements and make progress from their individual starting points.
Our Curriculum Overviews
Our curriculum overviews help parents and carers understand what children will be learning throughout Year 3 and how their knowledge and skills will develop.
The Annual Curriculum Overview provides an at-a-glance summary of the subjects, topics and key learning planned across the autumn, spring and summer terms.
Our Termly Parent Curriculum Overviews provide further detail about children's learning, including key knowledge, vocabulary, connections between subjects and opportunities for practical learning and enrichment.
These documents outline our planned curriculum. Teaching is responsive to children's individual starting points and learning needs, ensuring appropriate support and challenge for all pupils.
Curriculum Documents 2026–2027
Year 3 Annual Curriculum Overview 2026–2027
This document provides an overview of the subjects, topics and key learning planned throughout the academic year.
Year 3 Autumn Term Parent Curriculum Overview 2026–2027
This document provides further information about the learning planned for the autumn term, including curriculum connections, key knowledge and enrichment opportunities.