We provide a broad, balanced and meaningful curriculum which is accessible to all our students and provides smooth progression and continuity from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through to Post 16.
Our curriculum offer includes the National Curriculum where appropriate and additional elements which incorporate cross-curricular and enrichment opportunities. The aim is to provide students with a rich curricular experience which enables them to develop the skills and competencies to live a full life and realise their potential.
Our school is based on Christian principles and we actively promote values which ensure students develop a strong sense of social and moral responsibility. We prepare our students for life in modern Britain by developing an understanding of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and celebrating differences.
We value the achievements of all students and strive to ensure that they achieve success in all aspects of their learning. These successes are celebrated in our weekly achievement assemblies.
‘Leaders and staff provide a rich variety of experiences that enhance pupils’ lives. Frequently, pupils ‘push the boundaries to independence’.’ Ofsted 2019
Progress through the curriculum
On admission, each student will undergo a comprehensive multi-disciplinary assessment. This is linked with their EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) or Statement of Special Educational Needs and will identify the student’s needs and priorities for learning.
Students’ progress is closely monitored throughout the year to inform planning, to keep account of the range of experiences covered, to celebrate achievements and to provide information for reporting. Annual and transitional reviews have a person-centred approach, to ensure every student reaches his or her full potential and continues to receive the correct level of support.
For a more in depth overview of our curriculum please visit our Curriculum Overview page.
‘Regular assessment means that teachers are clear about what pupils need to learn next.’ ‘Staff approach the same topic in different ways so that pupils can access the
knowledge.’ Ofsted 2019
Support for learning
Wherever possible, students are taught in appropriate Key Stage groups. Each Teacher works with a Senior Teaching Assistant (STA), Teaching Assistant (TA) and Education and Student Support Workers (ESWs) in small class groups.
Every student has a Personal Learning Plan (PLP), setting out their needs, goals and priorities. They are regularly reviewed to make sure that each child is catered for and achievements are celebrated.
The therapy teams offer an integrated service, supporting students within the classroom and working alongside teachers and ESWs. Therapeutic intervention supports students with their communication and physical wellbeing, all of which are paramount in enabling successful learning.
Collaborative planning means that learning and therapy outcomes are person-centred and can be incorporated into meaningful activities. Learning does not stop when care needs arise. Engaging individuals in aspects of eating, drinking and other personal care is an integral part of each young person’s day.
‘Through the multi-disciplinary approach of all staff, pupils make particularly strong progress in their mobility and communication.’. Ofsted 2019
Enrichment
Students are encouraged to express themselves to the best of their ability through sport, drama, music, dance, art and technology. These activities, and many more, play a huge part in their personal and social development.
Each day, the Welcome programme offers an exciting, flexible, individualised 30-minute session, when students can work on ‘core skills’ and prepare for learning.
Our Learning Enrichment Activity Programme (LEAP) gives students the opportunity to choose from a range of enrichment activities.
We offer educational visits plus recreational, social and physical activities. Sport, drama and music events feature strongly, as well as art and design, which is an important part of our curriculum. Each year our students can participate in a production.
‘Pupils are polite and engaging. They readily communicate and make people feel welcome in their school’. Ofsted 2019
Multi-Sensory provision
Our specialist approaches ensure that sensory skills are maximised and programmes are developed for each child with the sensory input needed to help them reach their potential. Activities and experiences encourage and develop students’ independence and communication.