The Rowans Primary Discovery Curriculum Intent

The Discovery Curriculum at The Rowans Primary is designed to support children in developing a deep understanding of key feelings and emotions. Through exploration of play, nature, stories and movement our curriculum aims to equip children with the knowledge of how different emotions manifest in the body. Students are encouraged to explore and recognise these emotions in themselves and others, fostering emotional awareness and empathy.

The curriculum provides opportunities for children to develop personalised coping mechanisms that support emotional regulation. We believe that all emotions are valid and temporary, and through guided exploration, children learn that managing these emotions effectively is key to developing self-regulation skills. These skills are essential not only for emotional well-being but also for success in academic, social, and personal areas of life.

By embedding these practices into the curriculum, we aim to create resilient, emotionally intelligent individuals who are equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and empathy.

The Rowans Primary Discovery Curriculum Implementation

The Discovery Curriculum at The Rowans Primary is implemented through a weekly focus on a core emotion, where children explore their individual responses to that feeling, identify triggers, and learn how to manage it effectively. Each week, a different emotion is introduced, allowing children to develop a deeper understanding of how emotions manifest in their bodies and minds.

In this process, students are encouraged to reflect on personal experiences and recognise the emotions they may encounter in everyday situations. A key aspect of the curriculum is exposing children to a range of coping mechanisms, empowering them to select strategies that best suit their individual needs. These strategies are then incorporated into a personalised regulation toolbox, allowing students to choose tools for managing their emotions effectively.

Throughout the week, children are provided with opportunities to revisit and practice the coping mechanisms they have identified. By applying these strategies in real-life situations, they reinforce their ability to regulate emotions, building resilience and self-awareness. The regular practice of these techniques enables children to develop strong emotional regulation skills, which they can transfer across all areas of their lives, from academic learning to social interactions.

Rowans Primary Discover Curriculum Impact

Recognising and understanding different feelings and emotions is a vital skill that impacts children’s personal growth, well-being, and academic success. By developing their own coping mechanisms and learning to self-regulate, children at The Rowans Primary are better equipped to manage a wide range of emotions, both in and out of the classroom.

Through the Discovery Curriculum, children gain a deep awareness of emotions, allowing them to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. This emotional intelligence develops greater resilience, enabling children to navigate challenges with confidence.

By using personalised coping mechanisms, children build a sense of control over their emotional responses, reducing anxiety and frustration. This ability to self-regulate improves emotional well-being, enhances focus, concentration and social interactions. As a result, children are more engaged in their learning, as they can manage distractions and setbacks without becoming overwhelmed.

In the long term, these skills are transferable to every aspect of life, from academic achievements to personal relationships. Children with strong emotional regulation skills are better equipped to face the demands of school and beyond, leading to more positive life experiences and greater opportunities for success.