At Rydon Primary School, we inspire children to develop the knowledge, skills, and character that will enable them to leave school ready to lead rewarding lives in a rapidly changing world. Cultural, sporting, and artistic experiences help pupils discover their full potential, while character development encourages a resilient, determined, and positive response to challenge. We aim for our students to leave school not only with strong academic qualifications but also with the skills and personal attributes that open doors to a fulfilling future.

At Rydon, we deliver Character Education through our Eleven by Eleven programme of opportunities and experiences. This ensures that all pupils in ESW primary schools have access to a wide range of experiences across different areas by the time they move onto secondary school at age eleven. These experiences support character development and provide rich learning opportunities that enhance the curriculum, helping children grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.

Our pupils enjoy a variety of opportunities, including outdoor learning such as Forest School, sports events including the Teignbridge Football League and other School Sports Partnership activities, and participation in a wide range of clubs (see [school website for full list]). They also take part in swimming lessons in Year 3 and residential trips in Years 4 and 6, giving them new challenges and experiences outside the classroom.

Children are actively involved in the local community through links with organisations such as St. Michael’s Church, Newton Abbot Rotary Club, Kingsteignton in Bloom, Kingsteignton Library, Kingsley Park – Green Spaces, HITS Foodbank, and events like the Ram Roast Fair, Remembrance Day Parade, and School Choir performances for the Civic Carol Service. Pupils also benefit from engaging visitors to school and visits out of school, along with performances in music and drama, including special music events like the BSO.

Throughout the year, children celebrate key British events such as the Queen’s Jubilee and the King’s Coronation, helping them develop a sense of cultural awareness and community. The programme also includes opportunities for careers development, giving pupils insight into future pathways and helping them make informed choices as they grow.

Through the Eleven by Eleven programme, all pupils in ESW primary schools will experience a wide range of activities and opportunities, ensuring they leave primary school well-rounded, confident, and ready for the next stage of their education.

​The Eleven areas are…

Leadership – Our children are the leaders of tomorrow and we create rich opportunities for pupils to work in teams and learn by leading both in their schools and across the trust.

Performing Arts – The performing arts encourage children to explore their emotions, expand their imagination and helps them develop their own, unique voice. Children experience a wide range of performing arts opportunities throughout their time in our school, both as a performer and as a member of an audience

Wellbeing/Mental Health/First Aid – We give pupils the skills to look after themselves and their friends and families so they can stay mentally and physically fit and strong.

Local Community Involvement – As schools we value our position in our local communities. Through our strong links and community programmes we promote connection, belonging and responsibility.     

Sports – In our schools, we give pupils the opportunities to take part in a range of sports, represent their schools in tournaments and matches and make links with local sports clubs in the community.    

Environmental Activities/Awareness – Through discussion, debate and direct action, we help our children to understand how to look after and improve the natural environment and how they can improve the world in which we live.    

Cultural Visits – We organise a range of visits and trips to cities, museums and galleries to help children to understand and appreciate the rich heritage and cultural diversity both locally and beyond our immediate community

Careers/Preparation for the world of work – We help our children to gain the basic knowledge and skills they need to begin navigating their way successfully through career choices and changes.

Outdoor Education – Through our work in our forest school and through our trips and residentials, we give children regular opportunities to experience outdoor activities and explore the natural world in an exciting and inspiring way.

Wider World Culture – Through meaningful links with organisations, schools and charities we help our children to develop an understanding of and respect for the ways that people live across the world.

Learning a New Skill/After School Clubs – Through our extra-curricular activities we give our children the opportunity to develop their skills and learn new ones.