Secondary (Ages 11 to 16)

In the Secondary phase, we build on the foundations laid in Primary and steadily widen each pupil's world. The curriculum remains personalised through our three pathways, but the emphasis shifts towards greater independence, functional application of skills, and learning in real contexts.

What learning looks like

Pupils continue to develop communication and self-regulation through the SCERTS framework, while their academic learning – shaped by the Equals curriculum on our Explore and Semi-Formal pathways, and more subject-based study on our Formal pathway – becomes increasingly functional and purposeful. Literacy and numeracy are applied to real life: reading signs and timetables, handling money, cooking, shopping and using the community.

Learning beyond the classroom becomes more prominent in this phase, with regular, carefully planned trips into the local community to practise and generalise skills. Personal, social and health education, delivered at a level each pupil can access, supports growing self-awareness and safety.

Looking ahead

From Year 9, annual reviews take on a Preparing for Adulthood focus, and we begin planning each pupil's route through Post-16 and beyond with families and local authorities. For pupils on our Formal pathway, we introduce externally accredited courses where appropriate, so that achievements are recognised and doors stay open.