Department Lead: Izzy Papworth

Coral Department comprises of 2 classes, we support pupils in both key stage 2 and 3. The children in these classes have a range of additional needs, all pupils have speech, language and communication needs, and some children have medical needs, down syndrome, autism, physical and sensory related difficulties, all children benefit from a nuture approach.

All the pupils are placed at the centre of the curriculum and our planning ensures we cover: self-regulation, social interaction, peer and family relationships, self-confidence, concentration and attention, engagement and the ability to communicate using their preferred method. 

Positive relationships are of paramount importance, and we work with determination and commitment to build, maintain and develop a relationship with each and every individual pupil and family we work with. It is through these strong relationships and shared understanding that we learn about what motivates each pupil. This supports us to adapt our teaching to support the learning of each individual pupil. 

Both classes focus on similar themes for the term but the activities and sessions are differentiated according to the learning needs and styles of the individuals within each class. Both classes follow the Equals curriculum, focusing on: my communication, my play and leisure, my outdoor school, my physical wellbeing and my independence. Each class has a high level of structure and targeted interventions a day. Department trips are planned in advance linked to the themes of the term.  Each class is encouraged to have ‘walk out’ trips to the local supermarket which work on the individual social and independence targets the children are working on. In addition to this each class have opportunities built in throughout the year to experience swimming lessons, Forest School visits, visits from our therapy dog and rebound (trampoline). 

Coral department has a strong emphasis on consistency and routine, as these bring familiarity, and with it a sense of security that allow children to explore independently with confidence. In addition, it enables the children to understand their day and what is expected of them. It builds in opportunities for social interaction, effective communication and the ability to transfer skills.  Independence and life skills are a key focus within our department, and we work closely with families and outside professionals to create individual learning programmes incorporating therapy, educational and life skills targets.

Speech & language, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy activities are also interwoven into each day depending on their individual needs. As part of our Total Communication support and SCERTS approach, all pupils will have access to individual, small and whole class sessions which will allow them to access Attention Autism, Intensive Interaction, Makaton signing, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECs), Augmentative and Alternative Communication Aids, and gross motor skills programs.