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NCFE Specification

Games Design

Scheme of Work

NCFE accredited Games Design programme combining 3D game development, Python programming, digital media design, and AI — equipping learners with creative and technical skills for digital careers.

Section 1

Intent, Implementation & Impact

Intent

  • Deliver a knowledge-rich curriculum adapted for SEND learners
  • Build confidence and independence through scaffolded learning
  • Ensure all learners access their full educational entitlement
  • Align with EHCP outcomes and Preparation for Adulthood pathways

Implementation

  • Differentiated resources and multi-sensory teaching approaches
  • Therapeutic integration within lessons to support regulation
  • Regular formative assessment to track progress against targets
  • Small group sizes with high staff-to-learner ratios

Impact

  • Measurable progress against EHCP outcomes each term
  • Accredited qualifications appropriate to learner ability
  • Improved confidence, resilience, and self-regulation
  • Readiness for next steps in education, training, or employment
Section 2

Curriculum Overview by Strand

3D Game Design & Development

Employment
Design and build 3D game environments using industry-standard game engines
Apply level design principles including layout, lighting, and player flow
Create interactive game mechanics using visual scripting and blueprint systems

Content: Game engines, 3D world building, level design, game mechanics, playtesting, visual scripting

Progression: From navigating a game engine to independently designing and building playable 3D levels

Real-World: Games industry, architectural visualisation, VR/AR development, simulation design

Games Coding & Programming

Employment
Write and debug code using Python to create simple interactive games
Apply computational thinking: sequencing, selection, iteration, and decomposition
Use variables, functions, and data structures to manage game logic

Content: Python programming, game logic, variables, loops, conditionals, functions, debugging, algorithms

Progression: From understanding basic instructions to writing multi-function game programmes independently

Real-World: Software development, web development, data analysis, automation, tech careers

Digital Media & Creative Design

Employment
Create and edit digital graphics, textures, and visual assets for games
Apply principles of colour theory, composition, and visual hierarchy
Produce promotional materials, UI mockups, and portfolio-ready creative work

Content: Graphic design, photo editing, digital art, UI design, colour theory, typography, asset creation

Progression: From basic image editing to producing professional-quality visual assets and creative portfolios

Real-World: Graphic design, marketing, advertising, social media content creation, UI/UX design

Digital Entrepreneurship & Careers

Employment
Understand the structure and roles within the digital and games industry
Develop a professional portfolio showcasing completed projects
Plan and manage a creative project from concept to completion

Content: Games industry careers, project management, portfolio development, presentation skills, teamwork

Progression: From awareness of digital careers to presenting a professional portfolio of creative work

Real-World: Job applications, freelance work, entrepreneurship, creative industry careers

Section 3

Assessment Cycle

CONTINUOUSCYCLE

Baseline

September

Formative

Ongoing

Half-Termly

Every 6 weeks

Summative

Termly

Annual Review

Annually

Baseline

Initial assessment to establish starting points and inform differentiation

Formative

Regular lesson-level checks for understanding and progress

Half-Termly

Assessed tasks to track progress against learning objectives and EHCP targets

Summative

End-of-term assessment with moderated grading and reporting

Annual Review

Contribution to EHCP Annual Review with evidence of progress

Section 4

Adaptations for SEND Learners

SEMH Support
  • Regulation breaks built into lesson plans
  • Therapeutic check-ins before and after sessions
  • Flexible seating and low-stimulus environments
  • Positive behaviour reinforcement strategies
ASC Adaptations
  • Visual timetables and structured routines
  • Clear, literal instructions with visual supports
  • Advance notice of changes to activities or routine
  • Reduced sensory demands in the learning environment
Communication Needs
  • Colourful Semantics and visual communication aids
  • Pre-teaching of key vocabulary before each topic
  • Simplified task instructions with visual scaffolding
  • Alternative recording methods where appropriate
Cognition & Learning
  • Scaffolded worksheets with graduated difficulty
  • Concrete-pictorial-abstract approach to new concepts
  • Repetition and retrieval practice built into every session
  • Extended processing time and chunked instructions
Section 5

Termly Scheme of Work

Section 7

Preparation for Adulthood Links

Employment

  • Workplace-relevant skills and knowledge
  • Problem-solving and independent thinking
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Accredited qualifications for career pathways

Independent Living

  • Real-world application of core skills
  • Managing personal information and data
  • Budgeting and financial literacy connections
  • Health and safety awareness

Community Participation

  • Understanding rights and responsibilities
  • Environmental and social awareness
  • Communication skills for community engagement
  • Active citizenship and participation

Health & Wellbeing

  • Self-regulation and emotional literacy
  • Physical wellbeing and healthy choices
  • Building resilience and self-confidence
  • Therapeutic progress and coping strategies

Questions About Our Games Design Programme?

Our team is happy to discuss how we adapt our teaching for SEND learners, including self-paced video tutorials, differentiated project briefs, and therapeutic support during sessions.