School Organisation

Curriculum

Westcroft School has accommodation for 210 pupils with complex cognitive needs. The age range of pupils at Westcroft is from 5 up to 19 years of age.

The school encompasses all stages:

• Primary (Phase 1 and Phase 2)

• Secondary (Phase 3)

• Post 14 (Phase 4)

• Sixth Form

Phase 1

Within Phase 1, pupils engage in learning experiences that build communication, personal development, and independence skills.

Depending on their Pathway, pupils either take part in subject-specific sessions or follow an individualised curriculum centred around their EHCP targets. This approach enables staff to design a bespoke curriculum that supports meaningful skill development.

Through enhanced provision, we promote purposeful exploration, ensuring pupils can access a wide range of learning opportunities in ways that best meet their individual needs.

Pupils are grouped according to their stage of development rather than age, allowing them to engage with content that is appropriate for their abilities and interests.

Throughout this phase, the curriculum supports pupils in developing through real-life, contextual learning, exploration, and sensory experiences, preparing them for progression into Phase 2.

Phase 2

In Phase 2 pupils continue to be taught within their specific Pathway. Pupils are grouped on academic and social ability with classes ranging from learning through exploration and sensory activities to learning in a semi-formal, structured environment.

Based on their Pathway, pupils within Phase 2 engage in subject-specific sessions or a personalised curriculum centred on their EHCP targets, and take part in thematic learning when it meets their needs.

Subjects are delivered using a thematic approach supporting holistic, meaningful learning combined with real world experiences. Pupils continue to develop independence skills through Social Communication Programme and Independent Living Skills sessions. These combined with our thematic curriculum provide the pupils with the skills and knowledge they need as they transition through the phase and in preparation for moving into Phase 3.

Phase 3

Throughout Phase 3, pupils continue working within their assigned Pathways to ensure consistency and continuity in their learning.

The curriculum includes the core National Curriculum subjects, with pupils following structured programmes in English, Maths, Science, PE, and Computing. Pupils also have opportunities to develop their creative skills through a rotation of lessons and topics such as Art, Music, Internet Safety, Careers, and Enterprise.

Phase 3 places strong emphasis on Personal, Social and Health Education and on developing independence. Building independence is embedded throughout the entire curriculum and is

supported through lessons such as Our World, the Social Communication Programme, Cooking, and Independent Living. In Phase 3, pupils follow a curriculum that blends academic learning with creative opportunities. Every aspect of the curriculum is designed to build the skills and understanding needed for independent thinking and decision-making, supporting pupils as they grow and prepare for the transition to Phase 4.

Phase 4

The Phase 4 programme prepares pupils for their transition to a Post-16 placement, whether that is with us, at college, or with a training provider while consolidating academic learning and further developing essential life skills.

Pupils follow a broad curriculum that includes vocational and social opportunities, with a strong emphasis on building independence and life skills. Depending on their Pathway, pupils can work towards externally assessed qualifications, including Entry Level and Vocational awards, differentiated according to ability. All pupils develop skills for independent living and personal safety through lessons such as Cooking, Travel Training and Independent Living.

All pupils also take part in structured Maths and English lessons. Through carefully selected and relevant units, learners develop the core skills needed for adult life, employment and independence. Maths focuses on time, money and number skills, while English develops reading, writing and communication. Lessons are meaningful and accessible, using symbols, visuals and hands-on practical activities.

The curriculum is designed to strengthen independence and support pupils in making informed choices about their future.

Sixth Form

Westcroft Sixth Form supports students to become more independent, confident and prepared for life beyond school. Our curriculum is shaped around each student’s needs, interests and aspirations. Learning is based around in real-life contexts, particularly in English and Maths, where students develop practical skills such as recognising money, reading timetables, writing shopping lists and communicating in everyday situations.

Our curriculum also promotes physical development, wellbeing and real-world experience. Students take part in activities that build health, confidence and resilience. They work towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award, developing teamwork, determination and a strong sense of achievement. Weekly volunteering or work-based learning—such as in cafés, gardens or community settings—helps students gain responsibility and workplace skills.

Independence is central to everything we do. Students learn essential daily living skills including cooking, travel safety and decision-making. Through our PSHE and Independent Lives curriculum, they explore relationships, personal safety and emotional wellbeing.

Sixth Form provides a respectful environment where every young person is supported to prepare for adulthood and achieve their full potential.