Access to a broad and balanced curriculum

All students follow the National Curriculum at a level suitable for their ability. However, we also aim to stretch and challenge their expectations in a supportive and reassuring way. Our SEND philosophy places students with SEND at the heart of our personalised learning programmes and, in some cases, our curriculum is modified to meet individual student needs.

To successfully allow SEND students’ access to the Curriculum, we utilise the following strategies:

  • Quality First Teaching (QFT) – all teachers are essentially SEN teachers in the first instance and have high expectations for all students, whatever their level of ability
  • Differentiated materials (both for reinforcement and extension).
  • Access to ICT.
  • Extra support within the pastoral system; within each year group in school there are  allocated staff who work alongside the tutors to ensure the well-being and academic progress of all students
  • Extra careers guidance sessions at KS4
  • Additional in class support.
  • Additional out of class support (where appropriate, such as mentoring appointments).
  • Flexible groupings (including small group work).
  • An innovative and supportive curriculum – including access to Social and Emotional Education at KS3, through our ‘Nurture Group’ and an appropriate and varied work based Level 1 learning curriculum at KS4.
  • A chance for SEND students to study Level 1 Interpersonal Skills at KS4, in order to aid social interaction skills (particularly useful for students with ASD)
  • The appropriate use of rewards and sanctions.
  • Mentoring and counselling
  • Breakfast Club
  • A broad range of extra-curricular activities, including The Quiet Lunch Room, Lunchtime Puzzle Club and a range of drama and sporting opportunities which are open to all
  • Homework Club and use of the Learning Resource Centre.
  • Accelerated Reading Scheme for every student- this is a personalised and interactive reading programme for all year 7 students
  • Assessment procedures that emphasise students’ strengths and achievements.
  • Key Stage 4 courses which are relevant to students’ needs.
  • Applications to examination boards to obtain access arrangements as appropriate
  • Intervention groups for exam skills at KS4
  • Intervention groups for students with dyspraxia and handwriting difficulties

There is always a wealth of extra activities for students to access at St John’s.  This list provides s only a brief overview of what we offer.  Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions or suggestions. We would be very happy to hear from you.