Watching the pupils independence and confidence grow and develop in KS3 is what I enjoy seeing the most.
Key Stage 3 Manager
Introduction
IIn Key Stage 3, we continue to nurture the growth and development of our pupils throughout their academic year. Pupils continue to learn through play whilst learning the skills to become independent learners, including emotional regulation and learning alongside others.
“Pupils enjoy having the opportunity to learn through play in a topic-based approach whilst also developing ongoing independence skills to ensure they are ready for key stage 4 and life outside of school.”
Curriculum Pathways
Orange and Green Pathway places a strong emphasis on pupil engagement, particularly those who require daily support in communication, physical development, medical care, and sensory needs. Learning in this pathway is primarily practical and multisensory, with frequent repetition and opportunities for child-led activities.
The focus is on purposeful and engaging learning experiences to support the children in their educational journey.
We do this with:
- 1:1 Learning
- Sensory Support
- Emotional Regulation
- Independence Skills
- Communication
Purple Pathway aims to build confidence and independence in learning. These classes support pupils primarily in developing emotional regulation and social skills. Some pupils require assistance with medical needs, intimate care, and sensory support, and staff help them gradually take ownership of these needs.
The learning style in Purple Pathway is more formal but still includes practical, fun and enjoyable experiences.
We do this with:
- Small group learning
- Specialist Support
- Emotional and Behavioural Support
Pink Pathway is a bespoke curriculum approach aimed at building acceptance and engagement in learning. The curriculum is tailored to the individual needs of each pupil. Some elements from Orange, Green or Purple Pathway may be integrated, but they are delivered in a bespoke manner. All pupils have a “linked class” within school and may attend some lessons with their linked class peers. Pupils on this pathway may have had negative school experiences and may have been absent from school for extended periods. We’re here to support them every step of the way.
We do this with:
- Individualisation
- Integration with other curriculum pathway
- High staff ratio
- Supportive and flexible learning environment
- Access to linked class
Teaching approach
“My favourite thing about school…sensory time is good after lunch and calms me down.”
Learning in Key Stage 3 is delivered through a highly individualised, sensory-rich, and supportive approach. It’s a pupil-centred learning environment, using each child’s unique needs, abilities and learning styles to create a customised educational plan. We encourage small group activities, building confidence and social skills throughout the year. Communication and interactions skills are a central focus, using various communication methods to help students develop their confidence in communicating and working alongside others.
In Key Stage 3, we use Attention Autism, known as ‘bucket’ which is an engaging teaching approach, using visually stimulating activities to enhance attention, communication, and social skills.
“My favourite thing about school is we do lots of different lessons and I like learning new things”.
School clubs and trips
“I like football club because I get to play with my friends.”
“I like computing club because we use Scratch and other fun things”
Our lunch time clubs and playtime offer creates a safe and supportive space for the children to relax and recharge. Pupils have access to football club, the library area and a range of outside activities.
We have various trips throughout the year for our KS3 pupils formed around our topics and curriculum. Whether we are visiting local shops, getting the bus or heading into the town, our trips create educational, enriching, and positive experiences for the children.
