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
Curriculum Overview by Strand
Biology
Content: Cells, body systems, health, disease, ecosystems, plant biology, genetics basics
Progression: From identification → explanation of biological processes
Real-World: Personal health, nutrition, environmental awareness, outdoor learning links
Chemistry
Content: Materials, chemical reactions, acids and alkalis, food chemistry, fire science
Progression: From observation → explanation of chemical changes
Real-World: Cooking, food safety, construction materials, workplace safety (COSHH)
Physics
Content: Forces, energy, electricity, circuits, materials, light, sound, magnetism
Progression: From recognition → application of physical principles
Real-World: Rail engineering, construction, digital technology, transport
Scientific Enquiry
Content: Variables, fair testing, measurement, data recording, evaluation, risk assessment
Progression: From guided enquiry → supported independent investigation
Real-World: Problem-solving, critical thinking, workplace investigation skills
Assessment Cycle
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
Adaptations for SEND Learners
- Regulation breaks built into lesson plans
- Therapeutic check-ins before and after sessions
- Flexible seating and low-stimulus environments
- Positive behaviour reinforcement strategies
- 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
- 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
- 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
Termly Scheme of Work
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