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Bury CE High School

BURY CE HIGH SCHOOL
A Church of England Academy with the vision to empower all students to let their light shine.

Action for Change

At Bury Church of England High School, our curriculum is designed to inspire students to become responsible, resilient, and respectful citizens who live out strong Christian values and truly “let their light shine.”

Curriculum Design

The KS3 Action for Change curriculum is built around two core themes:

Foundations of the Natural World

Students explore the richness of the natural environment through hands-on learning and scientific inquiry. They learn to identify flora and fauna, understand ecosystems, and investigate biodiversity. From mapping ecosystems in the school field to building bug hotels and identifying pollinators, students gain both declarative and procedural knowledge that connects them deeply to their surroundings.

Stewardship and  Sustainability

Rooted in Christian teachings, this theme empowers students to take responsibility for the planet. They explore climate change, sustainable living, and environmental ethics. Activities include birdwatching, growing seasonal crops, maintaining the school garden, and campaigning for eco-friendly practices in school. Students also work towards earning a Green Blue Peter badge, keeping nature journals, and performing tree health checks. We hope to build young people that not only make a positive impact on the planet now but do so in the future. We educate our students in green careers in the hope that they enter into these professions in the future to continue looking after our planet way beyond their time at Bury Church of England. 

Each year builds on prior knowledge and prepares students for future learning:

  • Year 7: Introduction to ecosystems, pollinators, and environmental responsibility.
  • Year 8: Deeper exploration of biodiversity, invasive species, fungi, and sustainable farming.
  • Year 9: Advanced understanding of adaptations, food chains and webs, and ecological impact.

This progression leads naturally into the new Natural History GCSE, offering students a unique opportunity to continue their environmental studies at a higher level. We are looking to implement this GCSE once details are released.

Why It Matters

Our curriculum doesn’t just teach facts—it nurtures values. Through reflection, exploration, and action, students develop a deep understanding of their role in caring for creation. They leave KS3 not only with knowledge, but with the confidence and compassion to make a difference.

Action for Change KS3 Curriculum Intent 

Bug Hotels

All Year 7's get the opportunity to build bug hotels to be placed on the school site to help improve biodiversity and allow students to see the variety of insects that live in Bury. Students had a great time with local scientists and even a lecturer from UCLAN to help them build the bug hotels.