Key Stages 3 and 4

Secondary

Key Stage 3 and 4 

Our secondary curriculum blends key elements of the National Curriculum with a strong focus on functional skills, independence and life skills. Students follow personalised pathways through the ASDAN Life Skills Challenge program which provides practical learning opportunities based on the termly topics, all of which are also linked closely to their EHCP outcomes. This program is centred around 4 key areas: Science and Humanities, Art, Design and Media, Functional Skills and Sport and Leisure, to incorporate foundation subjects 
Teaching supports students to develop and generalise skills, applying literacy and maths in real-life situations to best prepare them for life after school. PSHCE and RSHE continue to be embedded throughout the secondary curriculum to support pupils to develop the appropriate skills they need as they mature. 

For an overview of our curriculum, please see our Key Stage 3 and 4 curriculum map by clicking here.

Example weekly timetable:

KS 3 4 Timtable

Curriculum Enrichment

The secondary curriculum offers a breadth of opportunities for students to take part in an extensive range of cross-curricular activities.

Practical learning in the community is closely linked to our curriculum topics and students are encouraged to apply and transfer learnt skills in a functional context. Examples of this would be reading signs and symbols in the local area, applying number and money skills during shopping trips and travelling to a specific location independently/with reduced support.

One off outings linked to particular topic modules are also thoroughly enjoyed by the students and enable them to extend their knowledge and understanding of a particular context/topic into a wider environment. For example, visiting the farm when learning about animal care or going to the beach when studying a geography topic.

These experiences not only enhance student’s curriculum learning but also encourage them to develop their confidence, independence, curiosity, social interactions, life skills and foster a true love of learning.

Equality in the Secondary School Curriculum

All students, regardless of their learning needs or profile have equal access to a broad and balanced curriculum. This is to equip them with the skills they need to succeed.

We ensure that this is embedded throughout the curriculum by:

  • Ensuring the curriculum is structured in a way that promotes equality of access for all groups of learners and best prepares them for their next stage. 
  • Using teaching resources that reflect the diversity of the school community and wider society, including race, religion and gender.
  • Providing a variety of opportunities for pupils to celebrate their own culture and learn about the culture of others. 
  • Involving parents and carers in the curriculum and encouraging them to be active participants in their child’s education. 
  • Celebrating differences and promoting attitudes and values that challenge prejudice and discriminatory behaviour.
  • Using teaching strategies that are personalised and inclusive of the learning needs of individual pupils.

Qualifications and Accreditation in Key Stage 3 and 4:

ASDAN Life Skills Challenge

Students follow the ASDAN Life Skills Challenge program in Key Stage 3 and 4 and complete half termly units to achieve their certification.

For more information about ASDAN please click here.