Our curriculum is theme/topic based and we ensure that it is broad, balanced and relevant. National Curriculum core and foundation subjects are highly personalised to the needs of each student. Lessons are varied, with students taking part in one-to-one work, small group sessions and whole class activities.
From the age of 14, students follow a theme-based curriculum. This focuses on life skills, vocational studies and work experience. In turn, this encourages progression and allows a focus on age-appropriate activity and learning. Sixth form students also participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme.
Curriculum enrichment activities
Curriculum enrichment activities include creative arts, dancing and theme days such as Chinese New Year. Regular charity events also offer opportunities for young people to contribute to the wider community and develop their understanding of issues faced by others.
Personal, social and health education (PSHE)
Personal, social and health education (PSHE) deals with many real life issues the young people will face as they grow up. As well as being taught as a discrete subject, it underpins much of the work undertaken in both the school and the children's home.
Relationship and sex education (RSE)
Sex and relationship education is provided for all students, starting in the year in which they reach twelve years of age. This includes issues connected with growing up, physical changes and relationships with other people.
Careful and sensitive attention is given to the individual needs of the students in relation to levels of understanding and their need for access to teaching materials through sound and touch.
Parents have the right to withdraw students from these lessons by submitting a written request to the Head Teacher.
Progress and achievement
There are a number of ways in which we monitor and record student progress. One of these includes PIVATS which helps us to assess achievement within the P-Level Scales so that we are able to monitor all areas of teaching and learning. This system enables targets to be set effectively for individual students.
Working within a specialist curriculum, students complete AQA (Assessment and Qualification Alliance) units at pre-entry and entry level which are nationally recognised.
Specialist SEN status
We recently became the only non-maintained special school in England to be awarded specialist status for special educational needs (SEN) cognition and learning. This will help us to improve the learning experience for blind or partially sighted young people with complex needs.
Training, advice and support
Our staff have a wealth of expertise within the fields of visual impairment and complex needs. They can offer training, advice and support to professionals and organisations across the country. Find out more about our outreach education service and events and training.
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