Offering a tailored curriculum for all pupils

At Fountaindale School, every pupil follows a pathway that is tailored to their individual needs, strengths and aspirations. Our curriculum is designed to support communication, independence, wellbeing and preparation for adulthood through engaging, meaningful and personalised learning experiences.

EYFS Pathway

Class: Hedgehogs

This pathway focuses on play, exploration and early development. Pupils develop communication, curiosity and confidence through meaningful learning experiences.

Learning is delivered through:

• Play-based learning
• Child-initiated exploration
• Adult-guided activities
• Continuous provision
• Sensory-rich experiences
• Communication-focused activities
• Hands-on learning
• Topic-based learning
• Multimodal communication approaches

Pre-Formal Pathway

Classes: Butterflies, Rabbits and Squirrels

This pathway is designed for pupils who benefit from highly personalised learning through sensory experiences, communication, interaction and play. The focus is on building the foundations for learning, engagement and wellbeing.

Learning is delivered through:

• Sensory-rich experiences
• Play-based learning
• Intensive Interaction
• Exploration and discovery
• Therapeutic approaches
• Personalised support
• Real-life experiences
• Topic-based learning
• Multimodal communication

Semi-Formal Pathway

Classes: Robins and Foxes

Pupils develop communication, early literacy, numeracy, independence and functional life skills through practical and personalised learning experiences.

Learning is delivered through:

• Practical and experiential learning
• Communication-focused activities
• Real-life contexts
• Problem-solving opportunities
• Structured routines
• Personalised support
• Topic-based learning
• Multimodal communication

Formal Pathway

Classes: Moles, Woodpeckers and Owls

The Formal Pathway enables pupils to develop subject-specific knowledge, communication skills and independence while preparing for successful and fulfilling futures.

Our Key Ideas:

• Communication and Literacy
• Cognition and Numeracy
• Physical Development
• Human Kind
• Nature
• Exploration
• Place and Space
• Creativity
• Rights

Post-16 Pathway

Preparing for Adulthood

The Post-16 curriculum helps young people develop the knowledge, skills and qualifications needed for adult life, future employment and positive next steps after school.

Learning is delivered through:

• Vocational learning and qualifications
• Work-related learning
• Independent living skills
• Community-based learning
• Careers education
• Enterprise opportunities
• Real-life experiences
• Topic-based learning
• Multimodal communication