Curriculum

St Paul’s Curriculum

All groups will deliver core skills such as English, Maths, Science, History and Sport. These are generally delivered in the mornings. This may differ in Post 16 as each individual is here for a different reason and may be focussing on English and Maths or either one or the other.

We deliver PSHE across all groups as a core subject, but we start with the contextualised needs of each group, for example if self-harm and mental health are high in a group then this will be the focus for PSHE sessions. Similarly, if a group has high criminal exploitation, then a focus around the dangers of exploitation and vulnerability will be looked into as a priority.

All groups have the option to pick subjects that they have an interest in such as languages, expressive arts, animal care or gardening. These are delivered in the afternoons and if several people pick the subject, then it is timetabled. 

Some subjects are picked as whole class-based projects such as art projects, gardening projects, some pupils are doing roller skating on a Friday afternoon that they are looking at the impact on wellbeing on indoor individual sports. From Key Stage 4 upwards there is a focus on careers. 

We work with a number of alternative provisions to accommodate interests in construction, mechanics, hair and beauty, horticulture, childcare and digital media. The vocational subjects are designed to work alongside the placements at alternative provisions and to research into real life careers and work placements.

There is an Independence suite of learning that will begin to be implemented towards the end of Autumn Term. This is a range of resources that will be completed by the outreach worker, pastoral tutor and SENCO to support the targets from the EHCP in the areas of relationships, employability, independence and health. This will be delivered alongside independence skills that can be found in
the short courses. Many of our older learners will be working on independent travel and handling money skills.

All of our courses are accessible to offsite learners and will be delivered by our outreach tutor and returned on a weekly basis for marking. Towards the end of Autumn term there will also be further meetings with offsite learners from the pastoral tutor and SENCO.

There is a route for progression, all our learners are starting with a Personal Development Programme which covers a range of core skills, independence and PSHE areas. This can progress into an Award and then a Certificate of Personal Effectiveness. Both of these can be achieved in Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 and can be used as UCAS Points if progressing into higher education.

For any pupil that has completed the short course in English and Maths and is progressing into Level 1 and Level 2 English and Maths Functional Skills then there is an accelerating progress programme to support with higher levels and the transition into GCSE’s if the pupils require it. For any pupil not
onsite there is an option of a home tutor to support with English and Maths.

The ASDAN curriculum intent focuses on providing students with practical, life skills-based learning that enhances personal, social, and work-related development. ASDAN (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network) offers a range of programs and qualifications aimed at helping learners develop skills for education, employment, and independent living. Its curriculum is built on several core principles:

1. Skill Development: ASDAN emphasises the development of key skills, including teamwork,
problem-solving, communication, and self-management, which are essential for personal and professional success.

2. Practical and Experiential Learning: The curriculum is designed to engage students in hands-on, real-world activities that allow them to apply their knowledge in practical settings. This can include community-based projects, volunteering, and work placements.

3. Inclusivity: ASDAN programs are designed to be flexible and inclusive, accommodating a wide range of learning needs and abilities. This is particularly beneficial for students who may not thrive in traditional academic settings.

4. Student-Centred Approach: The curriculum focuses on the individual learner, allowing them to set personal goals and work at their own pace, which encourages autonomy and self-motivation.

5. Preparation for Life Beyond School: ASDAN places a strong emphasis on preparing students for life after school, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for further education, employment, or independent living.