Curriculum

Referrals and admissions can occur throughout the year. Applications for places should be made by the referring school or agency, although families and carers can request an informal visit at any time.

We initially assess every student to provide a snapshot of their academic and personal starting point. Information is shared with key staff members to plan a holistic approach for each student to make progress.

With functional skills at the core, the curriculum is built around the student’s interest, with modular, flexible study, giving ample opportunity to sample a range of vocational pathways.

Students are given ample time and support over several weeks to settle in, build friendships and get to grips with their new way of learning.

Clear, realistic and structured targets are agreed to maximise each student’s potential.

Parents and carers are our partners and we actively encourage them to be as involved as possible in the young person’s education. Regular home visits are carried out to support students and their families with attendance, well-being and safeguarding.

Students meet with their tutor each half term to discuss and record their actual progress against targets, both academic and pastoral, and to plan for the next stage of their learning.

Extra-curricular involvement is of equal importance to academic progress. We provide opportunities that will develop the social, moral, spiritual and cultural experiences of our students.

We recognise the positive contributions that students make to both the school community and to their own personal development, and acknowledge them in our celebration assemblies, with rewards such as certificates or collaborative trips.

Students often elect to return to our 6th form after Year 11. But whether it’s moving onto the next phase of their education with ES or onto pastures new, we work with students to carefully plan their progression and ensure it is as smooth as possible.