Tailored Curriculum
At our school, Universal teaching is a cornerstone of inclusive education. We adapt our curriculum to reflect the unique needs and strengths of each cohort, ensuring that every learner is seen and supported. Quality First Teaching is embedded across all classrooms as a proactive, high-impact approach—forming the foundation of our universal provision for students with SEND. This ensures that all teachers are equipped to deliver differentiated, engaging, and accessible learning experiences that enable every child to thrive. We invest significant time in understanding the strengths and areas for development in each class. As a department, we not only support and scaffold learning but also stretch and challenge students to enable breadth and depth in knowledge. At St Joseph’s, we implement the Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) ‘5-a-day’ strategies as part of our inclusive classroom practice to support SEND students. These evidence-based techniques—such as clear explanations, scaffolding, flexible grouping, and regular feedback—are embedded across all subject areas to enhance engagement, accessibility, and progress for all learners.
At KS3 and KS4, all schemes of work include opportunities for literacy, reading, and oracy. We encourage all students, including SEN students, to communicate their thoughts and opinions and listen to others.
Our curriculum is designed to be both engaging and enjoyable, fostering curiosity and a genuine love for learning. We incorporate purposeful writing tailored to audience and intent, knowledge quizzes to reinforce understanding, and Oracy debates that build confidence and critical thinking. Interactive strategies such as visual whiteboards and ‘pose, pause, pounce, bounce’ techniques encourage active participation and deeper reflection. Through collaborative learning and meaningful social interaction, we create a vibrant classroom culture where every student feels valued. We are committed to supporting all learners in achieving their academic goals and nurturing them to become lifelong learners—individuals who find joy in reading and take interest in the world around them.
We have recently created a bespoke curriculum tailored to the needs of our SEN students to accelerate their learning and progress in Year 10. This curriculum allows as many students as possible to access GCSEs or Entry Levels in Year 10. Students in Year10, will follow the national curriculum topics and have access to a wide selection of GCSE subjects in Year 10. The principles for this group include a bespoke curriculum tailored to their needs while still following the National Curriculum. The curriculum focuses on literacy, oracy, writing, and maths.
Each department has the flexibility to design their curriculum to support the accelerated progress of these students. By building on common approaches and developing effective techniques, we aim to accelerate the progress of this group. This class responds well to topical teaching and relevant local and national news issues.
Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive and tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students. Students may be supported in mainstream classes or smaller groups with individualized tuition. We offer entry-level courses and AQA units, alongside an alternative bespoke Pathway, which provides extra support in English, Maths, and Life Skills. This approach ensures that all students can access learning at an appropriate level and develop independent learning skills.
