Life Beyond the Taught Curriculum

The word 'school' comes from the Greek word 'schole' which means the 'leisure to be free of work to learn, think, reflect and educate oneself. The Infinite Eight strategy is designed to support Epworth Trust schools to implement 'schole' in its truest sense. It is an offer that takes into account the element of school life beyond the taught curriculum. It is hoped that by offering these opportunities, children will be active in their learning, enjoying the leisure to learn and follow personal journeys of self-discovery and reflection. It is hoped that it will support children on their way to become well-rounded individuals with the aspiration to be the best version of themselves.

‘Who knows where the inspiration that will carry someone onward for the rest of their life may come from? The possibilities are limitless.’

Tim Peake
Soldier, pilot, parent and astronaut

The ‘Infinite Eight’ strategy outlines Epworth’s offer of eight opportunities for children to enjoy meaningful experiences beyond the taught curriculum during their time in an Epworth Trust school. 

These eight opportunities have been selected as they represent many wide-ranging opportunities for children to have experiences and develop skill-sets that can support their personal development and growth.

These opportunities have also been designed with three key purposes in mind. These are to support schools:

• to align with Epworth Trust’s vision and values of Aspiration; Collaboration; Generosity; Inclusivity; Integrity and Wisdom
•  to use the NHS’s five steps to promote good mental health, Learn new skills; Be active; Connect with others; Give to others; Be aware (mindfulness)
• to complement aspects of SMSC provision, promoting British Values

Within each of the eight opportunities is a set of core experiences (eighteen in total) that will be offered to our children throughout our school. 

Eight and the Infinity Sign

The choice of the use of eight and the infinity sign has a certain symbolism.

• Infinity suggests endless possibilities which these opportunities may present for personal development and self-growth. The infinity symbol is also an inclusive symbol as it has chosen by some charities to raise awareness of neuro-diversity.
• The number eight is considered auspicious in Chinese culture and is synonymous with prosperity, whilst in Japan it is synonymous with growth. It is certainly hoped that the ‘Infinite Eight’ strategy will prompt the potential for prosperity, personal growth and limitless possibilities for all. 

The ‘Infinite Eight’ strategy has been written to offer eight core opportunities to all the children within Epworth Trust. These opportunities will be experienced over the course of their primary school years and will hopefully leave a valuable impression on their lives. Whilst these opportunities include a set of core experiences common to all Epworth schools, there is room for flexibility in that schools can choose ‘the when’, ‘the where’ and ‘the how’ these experiences are going to happen.

Schools are not solely limited to the core experiences. We may wish to offer additional experiences with the eight opportunities and this document includes some suggested ways in which schools could do that. However, the prime purpose of this strategy is to ensure all Epworth children receive parity of this core experience offer.

Our new display board will reflect the experiences we offer. We can not wait to see this develop!

Miss Chalmers is our Infinite 8 leader and is overseeing that we ensure we cover all the following eight opportunities: 

What are the eight opportunities offered in the ‘Infinite Eight’ Strategy? 

Voices Raised in Harmony: Epworth Trust’s Children Shine in the Big Sing

There was magic in the air on 27th June 2025 as children from across Epworth Trust schools came together for a heartwarming and spirited event—the Big Sing. The event brought together voices from every corner of the Trust, uniting students in a shared celebration of music, community, and joy. The Big Sing was more than just a musical performance; it was a symbol of togetherness, showcasing the power of music to build connections and lift spirits. 

 You can read the Epworth Infinite Eight Strategy below: