Pupils: (Features of Pathway Learners)

• Communication: Students often exhibit pre-verbal communication skills.
• Sensory Requirements: They have significant sensory needs which may have an impact on their ability to engage.
• Cognitive Abilities: Limited cognitive abilities and typically, non-fluent readers.
• Social Interaction: May not independently seek, or have opportunities for, social interactions. Require substantial support to develop essential social skills.
• Managing Transitions:  Limited ability to transition
• Independence and Health Needs: Often have intimate care needs and lack an awareness of safety, requiring careful attention.

Provision: 

The Explore Pathway is designed to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for pupils who need to develop communication and other life and social skills.

Classrooms are intentionally pared back to create a lower stimulus setting, promoting focus and calm. Each area is secure, ensuring the safety of all pupils, who also have safe access to outdoor spaces for play and learning.

To accommodate pupils with intimate care needs, toileting areas are thoughtfully designed. Sensory exploration and regulation spaces are easily accessible, allowing pupils to engage in activities that help them manage their sensory needs. The classroom environment is often zoned, creating distinct areas for different types of activities and learning experiences.

Staff within the Explore Pathway are highly skilled and knowledgeable at operating within a Total Communication environment. They utilise Makaton, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), and both low and high-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods. These tools are expertly modelled and scaffolded to support pupils' communication needs.

A high ratio of adults is maintained to provide the necessary support as pupils learn to adapt to routines, communicate their needs, and participate in adult-directed tasks. This ensures that each pupil receives the individual attention and guidance they need to thrive in their learning environment.

Overall, the Explore Pathway aims to create a supportive and highly adaptable learning environment that meets the diverse needs of pupils with complex SEN and ASC needs, helping them to thrive and develop.

Curriculum

Aspirational Aim 

Pupils will have developed effective communication and engagement strategies and skills. They will be able to communicate their needs, feelings and make appropriate choices to engage and interact socially with peers. Pupils will be engaged and present within the community.