“It’s about finding the right level of independence and building their confidence.
Key Stage 4 Manager
Introduction
In Key Stage 4, the focus is around preparing pupils for their transition to post-16 provision at the end of Year 11. Pupils receive varying levels of support to reach an appropriate level of independence based on their needs, with lots of opportunities to explore potential career and education options for their future.
“We focus on Independence as much as possible, from independent learning in maths using a calculator, to confidence in using IT to support their learning.”
Curriculum Pathways
Orange and Green Pathway is dedicated to nurturing independence amongst pupils with diverse needs, supporting and preparing them for life beyond Key Stage 4. Pupils work towards Pre-Entry and Entry Level accreditations which are tailed to each pupil’s unique needs, skills, and abilities.
We use various strategies and routines to empower pupils with the skills and confidence they need to become independent in their everyday lives:
- Assigning classroom jobs to contribute and take ownership of daily routines.
- Promoting self-help skills and independence by preparing breakfast, e.g., toast and milk.
- Encouraging pupils to choose self-regulation strategies, promoting emotional independence.
- Developing resilience and positive attitudes towards challenges, difficulties, and failures.
- Support with personal care
Purple Pathway offers a structured educational experience, particularly for pupils transitioning from a semi-formal to more formal learning environment. Pupils work towards Entry Level Functional Skills accreditations, in preparation for further education, with an emphasis on emotional wellbeing, independence and positive relationships.
We do this by:
- Learning within smaller groups, with opportunities for 1:1 support and progression towards independent work
- Developing emotional literacy and resilience in core subjects
- Encouraging self-regulation using breakout areas and safe spaces.
Pink Pathway is a bespoke curriculum approach tailored to the individual needs of each pupil. Elements of Orange, Green or Purple may be integrated within the curriculum approach and pupils will work towards the most appropriate Pre-Entry or Entry Level accreditations. All pupils have a “linked class” within school and may attend some lessons with their linked class peers.
We do this with:
- Individualisation
- Integration with other curriculum pathway
- High staff ratio
- Supportive and flexible learning environment
- Access to linked class
Teaching approach
Learning in Key Stage 4 maintains elements of multisensory engagement and play-based learning while progressively transitioning to a more formal learning style throughout the academic year. Our staff build confidence, independence, and support each pupil as they move on to the next phase. Our Orange Pathway classes use Attention Autism, known as ‘bucket’ to promote engagement in their learning.
“From learning how to make toast, tying shoelaces, to getting on a bus, the pupils are developing the skills they need to integrate into society.”
School clubs and trips
Our lunch time clubs and playtime offer creates a safe and supportive space for the children to relax and recharge, with lots of opportunities to socialise with friends. Pupils have access to football club, the library area and a range of outside activities.
Key Stage 4 access a variety of trips throughout the year. These outings may include visits to the beach, attending events like The Norfolk Show, and discovering various places within Norfolk. These excursions are particularly valuable as they enable our students to become more familiar with their surroundings and their community.
We also link visits to our curriculum topics, for example visiting the theatre, going on field trips and applying our maths skills in the local supermarket. These outings not only make learning more hands-on, but also provide real-world contexts for our lessons.s not only make learning more hands-on, but also provide real-world contexts for our lessons.
