KS2 - KS3

Within Key Stages 2 and 3, learners follow a topic based curriculum with the topics taken from the early stages of the National Curriculum. The Schemes of work continue to follow the three prime areas and four specific areas of learning and development and we use a topic based approach to ensure breadth of delivery. The Prime Areas underpin all learning and overlap with each other. The schemes of work extend into the Core and Foundation Subjects of the National Curriculum for learners who are working at this level. The overall emphasis is on the development of basic skills. Materials used are modified to meet the needs of the children and they are assisted to access these skills by the use of symbols and signs as appropriate. Planning of the curriculum is undertaken to ensure breadth, balance, depth and progression of learning for all pupils. In addition, aspects of Personal Social and Health Education are given a high priority. The schemes of work are developed collaboratively by the teachers around topics which change each term. They are designed to mirror those experienced by their peers in mainstream school. As all pupils at Bettridge are working significantly below age expectations, the materials are adapted so they can be accessed and enjoyed and pupils can make progress from their individual starting points.