At Kew Riverside, we are committed to fostering the cultural capital of our pupils, equipping them with the skills and understanding necessary to navigate and contribute to an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. But what exactly do we mean by 'cultural capital' in the context of education?

Cultural capital is a concept that embodies the resources and experiences that individuals accumulate throughout their lives, enabling them to succeed and thrive within society. In a school setting, this concept extends beyond traditional curriculum subjects to encompass broader experiences and knowledge about culture, art, history, and values that shape our world. Our aim is to cultivate in our pupils an appreciation for an array of cultural backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing their ability to articulate their thoughts and opinions and thereby enrich their learning journey.

Kew Riverside recognises that developing cultural capital is intrinsically linked to personal development. As a school, we strive to create an environment where children not only learn academic skills but also discover their individual talents, and build character and resilience. We are dedicated to fostering a positive ethos around British values, diversity, and mental health and well-being, ensuring that every child feels supported and valued.

Our extensive range of trips present our pupils with the opportunity to engage with a variety of cultural and historical landmarks, reinforcing their understanding and appreciation of the world around them. With central London on our doorstep, we start exploring - and navigating - our great city in our younger years with visits to prominent locations such as London Zoo and the Natural History Museum. The House of Parliament provides insights into British democracy in action, while Kew Gardens and the Wetlands allow pupils to appreciate the significance of conservation and our natural environment. Notable excursions to the National Archives and the Tower of London delve into the history of our nation, igniting a curiosity about the past that permeates through various subjects.  

Our history curriculum is enriched by our study of those who have contributed to it, from Black history through to the role of women, while immersive experiences such as visiting a real local air raid shelter for World War II and the National Archives make history tangible and relatable, enabling pupils to develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the people and events throughout our past.

Moreover, educational outings to Barnes Common for workshops exploring the Thames and local habitats, cultivate a sense of environmental stewardship and encourage critical thinking about biodiversity and conservation. Technology plays a big role in our cultural capital offer, as reflected in our trip to the Apple Store for creative computing workshops, where pupils can enhance their digital skills in a dynamic, engaging setting. 

In addition to field trips, we collaborate with local secondary schools to enhance the learning experience further. This cross-phase engagement allows our children to participate in laboratory work, enabling them to develop scientific skills through hands-on experiences. Engaging with visiting artists has given children a wonderful insight into the creative process, while initiatives such as the Primary Maths Challenge and events such as Science Week, World Book Day, and Eco Day provide a platform for collaborative learning and creativity.

Additionally, we dedicate time to important subjects such as mental health and well-being, which are addressed during Mental Health Week. Special observances such as Safer Internet Day encourage children to be informed digital citizens, while cycling proficiency through Bikability, scooter training, and safe walking initiatives ensure that our pupils are equipped with the skills needed to navigate their environment safely.

Inclusivity is woven into the fabric of our school community, and we take pride in celebrating various cultural events. Each year, our school comes together to honour significant events and festivals such as Diwali, Christmas, Remembrance Day and Black History. We also celebrate Languages Day, which serves to highlight the diverse linguistic backgrounds of our pupils, fostering understanding and mutual respect amongst our pupils.

Through these wide-ranging activities, including team-building residentials to PGL and Juniper Hall, we aim not only to equip our pupils with academic knowledge but also to instil values of respect, empathy, and collaboration. This deep-seated ethos reflects our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to embrace the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving world.

As we continue to develop our cultural capital offer, we encourage both pupils and parents to engage with us in this endeavour. We firmly believe that education transcends the confines of the classroom, and we invite our community to join us on this journey of exploration, discovery, and growth. By working together, we can ensure that every child at Kew Riverside not only thrives academically but also emerges as a confident, cultured, and responsible citizen, ready to contribute positively to society.