Curriculum
The school provides 25 hours of learning opportunities each week for all pupils and provides a curriculum that supports the requirements of the Education (Independent Schools Standards) Regulations, 2014. All young people are taught in small groups of between 1 and 8 students depending on the subject and activity. Teaching groups are decided by year group, key stage, academic pathway and peer compatibility. Young people have access to 1:1 intervention sessions as required.
Our curriculum is planned to:
• Enable the intellectual, emotional and physical development of each pupil
• Meet the needs, aptitude and potential of each individual
• Provide a balanced programme which promotes the development and mastery of skills and understanding
The programmes of learning are contained in the National Curriculum and cover the following subject areas across Key Stages 3 & 4:
English
Humanities
Mathematics
Vocational Studies
Science
PE
Creative Arts
Lifeskills (PSHCE)
ICT
DT (including Food and Nutrition)
Literacy and Numeracy
Intervention Support (where required)
Additionally, we have an enrichment day every week to provide a range of wider curricular opportunities across the year, many leading to accreditation. At the current time, the options available include:
• Outdoor and adventurous pursuits including Indoor Climbing (NICAS)
• Arts Award
• Home Cooking BTEC
• Planned educational visits to local areas of interest
Pupils in Years 10 & 11 have an opportunity to participate in Work Experience. For some learners the school makes use of the 14-16 curriculum opportunities available in local F.E. colleges and with other providers.
Many learners who attend the school have an EHCP. The school will work closely with the placing authority to ensure that a young person’s specific needs are met and that any specific requirements in their plan are catered for. The school adheres to the review requirements of EHCP and Personal Education Plans.