Key Stage 1
Learners are taught in mixed ability and mixed aged teaching groups. Our Key Stage 1 class has up to 8 learners organised into one of the primary ‘tree’ classes – Little Acorns
Our curriculum is full and varied with a clear focus on the development of literacy and numeracy skills plus social, emotional and behavioural management skills to help equip the learners to re-integrate back into mainstream school. Strongly influenced by experiential learning and learning through play, we deliver a well-planned thematic curriculum with a new topic each half term. Within each topic, we identify opportunities to "expand horizons" and introduce our learners to careers and staying safe particularly online. We also try to incorporate activities which enhance their social, moral, spiritual and cultural learning. The curriculum is designed to also be flexible in order to meet any issues or concerns which may arise during the time a learner is with us. Learners also read daily.
Outdoor Learning - our Whelley campus is situated near many areas of natural beauty as well as benefitting from a wealth of outdoor space which we use as often as possible to support all curriculum areas. Outdoor learning gives our learners the opportunity to explore, discover and conserve these areas, as they develop their resilience and skills as responsible citizens of the future.
Personal Development - the timetable may vary depending on the needs of the learners. Subjects such as PE, swimming, art and cooking are delivered with the learning focus being SEMH and the learner’s individual targets. Interventions are also delivered for some learners on anger management, rights and responsibilities, transition and self-esteem. Where other issues arise such as drugs, alcohol, personal health or safeguarding a range of agencies/professionals such as the NSPCC, Police or Fire Service may be brought in to deliver sessions to support the specific needs of our learners.
Relationships and Health Education (RSHE) is provided at levels appropriate to the age and maturity of the learner through the core curriculum.
Wellbeing - Wednesday afternoons are an integral part of our personal development curriculum when the focus shifts to the complementary, therapeutic work we do that is designed to address the prime SEMH needs of those referred to us. Our learners select from a wide range of topics or electives that enhance and enrich their development as well as "broadening their horizons" and boosting their wellbeing. Learners are encouraged and supported to try new activities such as crafting, mindfulness and singing - activities which add cultural capital through learners' social, moral, spiritual and cultural development. These elective activities give them a chance to develop new skills or interests which have the potential to develop into life-long hobbies and support their positive mental health. More information about however this aspect of our curriculum helps wellbeing can be found by clicking the following link 5 Steps to Mental Health and Wellbeing | Anna Freud
