Curriculum
Individual programmes
The school curriculum is geared to meet the special needs of its pupils with particular emphasis on communication and social skills. Visual communication support systems in use at Woodcroft include Makaton (sign and symbol vocabulary) and PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System). Individual Education Plans (IEPs) cater for the wide ability range and a high staff ratio is sufficient to ensure that quality one to one attention is available.
Pupils access the National Curriculum at an appropriate level which may be delivered through the therapies. However the school does recognise that the National Curriculum forms but one part of the whole curriculum which our pupils require. Consequently personal and social education comprises a vital part of each pupil's school life. This includes learning about concepts of health, self-awareness, independence and personal relationships.
We recognise that some of our pupils need to gain the prerequisite learning skills before they can take advantage of the more formal types of educational experiences. The school therefore has developed its own curriculum to enable all pupils to learn in a way suited to their needs. Widening the key stages where necessary, and presenting the curriculum in an appropriate and meaningful manner, enables greater access and understanding for all pupils.
The curriculum is presented through clearly defined objectives that form the Individual Education Plan and include both educational, behavioural and therapeutic aims. The school has established an on-going process of evaluation and review to ensure planned progression. Emphasis is also placed on learning in real life situations and time spent in the community is valued as providing an opportunity to practice social skills.
Education in the community
One of the stated aims of the school in line with the National Curriculum is to prepare pupils for the opportunities, experiences and responsibilities of adult life. To achieve this all pupils spend time in the community learning to use public facilities, to behave in a socially acceptable way, to enjoy themselves and to improve their independence skills. As pupils progress the amount of time spent outside the school is increased in order to enhance all of these opportunities.
It is hoped that the level of staff support can be gradually reduced so that pupils are able to be as independent as possible and grow in self-confidence.
Inclusion opportunities
Pupils who are able to benefit from the experience participate in inclusion programmes in mainstream schools. Some pupils have opportunities for part-time inclusion in local primary schools with whom we have established strong links. Other pupils are able to participate in gradual inclusion programmes in their neighbourhood school with a view to taking up a full-time place in the future. In all cases a member of Woodcroft staff is provided as support.
Religious education
Emphasis is placed across the curriculum on helping pupils to develop self-awareness and to appreciate other people and their needs. Pupils are encouraged to build relationships based on mutual respect and trust, to value the world around them and thus to come to an awareness and understanding of spiritual and moral values.
All religions are respected and holidays and feast days are acknowledged.
Assemblies include collective worship. Pupils can learn to appreciate being with a larger school group and to celebrate mutual achievements. Assemblies also provide opportunities for recognising and celebrating religious festivals. Assemblies are non-denominational and pupils may be withdrawn from them at their parents' request.