Teaching Approaches
At Fred Nicholson School, our pupils do not follow a typical developmental trajectory
and we have to be prepared to support learning in a ‘typical’ and ‘atypical’ manner.
At Fred Nicholson School we have developed Fred’s Five Fundamentals and The
Active Learning Approach, to support all staff in teaching all learners at our school,
as well as meeting and supporting their complex, varied and individual needs.
Fred’s Fundamentals
We have developed five fundamental aspects to support us in providing a high
quality and consistent universal offer for all of our pupils. The five fundamentals are
non-negotiables that all staff should be providing in and out of the classroom.
Active Learning Approach
The active learning approach is made up of five pillars. These pillars must be at the
centre of all of our planning to support us in providing the best experiences and
opportunities for our pupils to learn. We value each pillar individually, but emphasise
that they overlap and that they all must be considered and provided consistently to
support our pupils and to ensure they have high quality learning experiences.
Curriculum Pathways
Our curriculum is delivered in the following pathways:
● Orange Pathway curriculum is based on aspects of the Early Years
Foundation Stage Framework and Engagement Model. Pupils are taught in an
explorative, play-based approach with a strong emphasis on supporting
pupils’ communication, physical and independence needs.
● Green Pathway curriculum is based on aspects of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and some National Curriculum areas. Pupils are taught in a child-led approach whilst developing some formal learning skills, such as enquiry and problem solving.
● Purple Pathway curriculum is based on aspects of the National Curriculum.
Pupils are taught in a formal, but practical and purposeful way, with a strong
emphasis on developing their confidence and independence with their
learning.
● Pink Pathway is an adaptation of one of the above pathways. Pupils are
taught in an individualised way, this may include bespoke timetables,
curriculums based around individual interests and use of alternative and off-
site provision to support learning and engagement.
