KS3 (ID 1122)

• Maths
  Maths

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)The KS3 Maths programme begins with a baseline assessment using BKSB, which identifies each pupil’s current working level within the Functional Skills framework. This diagnostic assessment highlights individual strengths and areas for development across key mathematical strands:

  • Using Number
  • Handling Data
  • Common Measures, Shape and Space

  Based on the out comes, personalised targets are set to address specific gaps. These targets are reviewed and evaluated during 5-week and 10-week progress meetings, ensuring that teaching remains responsive and focused.

  Lessons are carefully planned around these strands to build fluency, confidence, and problem-solving skills.The maths curriculum focuses on the core concepts that are essential for pupils to access the broader mathematics curriculum and make the greatest impact during their short-term placement.BKSB exit data is used to measure progress and inform next steps.When pupils demonstrate readiness—based on ongoing teacher assessment and increased confidence—they are entered for the appropriate Functional Skills Maths qualification.

• English
  English

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)

  The KS3 English programme begins with a baseline assessment using BKSB, which identifies each pupil’s current working level within the Functional Skills English framework. This diagnostic assessment highlights individual strengths and areas for development across the key strands: Speaking, Listening and Communication Reading Writing (Composition and Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar) Based on the outcomes, personalised targets are set to address specific gaps in knowledge and skills. These targets are reviewed and evaluated during 5-week and 10-week progress meetings, ensuring that teaching remains responsive and focused on individual needs. Lessons are carefully planned around these strands to build fluency, confidence, and effective communication skills. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of engaging and stimulating texts and stimuli.These are carefully selected to spark interest, encourage discussion, and inspire meaningful responses. In both reading and writing, pupils explore a variety of text types, such as: Narratives Accounts Explanations Instructions Discussions Information texts Descriptions This coverage ensures that pupils develop the ability to understand and produce a range of written forms, supporting both functional literacy and creative expression.BKSB exit data is used to measure progress and inform next steps. When pupils demonstrate readiness—based on ongoing teacher assessment and increased confidence—they are entered for the appropriate Functional Skills English qualification.

  At KS3, our reading curriculum is designed to build foundational literacy skills aligned with Functional Skills Entry Levels. Pupils are assessed on entry using BKSB, and individual reading targets are set based on their diagnostic outcomes. Pupils working below Entry Level 2 receive targeted phonics support through the That Reading Thing intervention programme. Our curriculum focuses on developing the following core reading competencies: Understanding Main Ideas Recognising Organisational Markers Vocabulary Using Visual Information Identifying Text Purpose

• Science
  Science

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)The KS3 Science curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ confidence and competence in Working Scientifically, equipping them with the essential skills needed to explore, understand, and question the world around them. The programme is structured around four key strands:

  • Scientific Attitudes: Encouraging curiosity, open-mindedness, and a critical approach to evidence and ideas. Pupils learn to recognise the importance of scientific integrity and the role of science in society.
  • Experimental Skills and Investigations: Pupils plan and carry out practical investigations, developing their ability to ask questions, make predictions, control variables, and use appropriate techniques and equipment safely and effectively.
  • Analysis and Evaluation: Pupils learn to interpret data, identify patterns, draw conclusions, and evaluate the reliability and validity of their findings. They are encouraged to reflect on their methods and suggest improvements.
  • Measurement: Emphasis is placed on the accurate use of scientific equipment, units, and numerical data. Pupils develop precision in taking measurements and understanding uncertainty.

  Through engaging lessons and hands-on activities, pupils build a strong foundation in scientific thinking and enquiry.

• PSHE
  PSHE

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)This PSHE lesson cycle has been carefully designed to ensure that all pupils in our setting have consistent access to key social, emotional, and personal development concepts. These sessions reflect the essential experiences we believe every student needs to feel confident, informed, and prepared for a successful transition back to their home school or onward to their next educational setting. The curriculum promotes self-awareness, healthy relationships, tolerance, and responsible decision-making.

  1. Identity,Gender and Sexuality

  Exploring personal identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation in a safe and respectful environment. Promotes self-acceptance and understanding of others.

  2. Healthy Relationships

  Understanding the qualities of healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, including friendships, family, and romantic relationships. Focus on respect, boundaries, and communication.

  3. Mental Health and Wellbeing – Part 1

  Recognising emotions, understanding mental health, and reducing stigma. Introduction to emotional literacy and self-awareness.

  4. Mental Health and Wellbeing – Part 2

  Building coping strategies, resilience, and knowing when and how to seek help. Focus on self-care and support networks.

  5. Bullying and Racism

  Identifying different forms of bullying and racism, understanding their impact, and learning how to respond safely and effectively.

  6. Tolerance, Respect and British Values

  Promoting respect for others, understanding democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect for different faiths and beliefs.

  7. Online Safety and Digital Responsibility

  Exploring risks and responsibilities online, including cyberbullying, privacy, digital footprints, and safe social media use.

  8. Managing Risk and Peer Pressure

  Recognising risky situations and learning how to make safe, informed choices. Includes peer influence, decision-making, and assertiveness.

  9. Drugs, Alcohol and Substance Awareness

  Understanding the effects and risks of substances, reasons people use them, and how to seek help or support others.

  10. Sex and Consent

  Age-appropriate education on consent, boundaries, contraception, and healthy sexual behaviour. Promotes safety and respect.

  11. Celebrating Cultural Diversity

  Valuing different cultures, traditions, and beliefs. Encourages inclusion, empathy, and global awareness.

  12. Rights,Responsibilities and the Law

  Understanding personal rights and responsibilities, legal protections, and how laws support fairness and safety.

• Cooking
  Cooking

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)In KS3, pupils take part in practical cooking lessons that build on their foundational skills and introduce them to more advanced techniques. Through hands-on activities such as measuring, mixing, chopping, and using a wider range of kitchen tools, pupils continue to develop their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and confidence in the kitchen.

  A key focus is on kitchen safety and hygiene. Pupils learn how to handle equipment responsibly, understand the risks associated with hot surfaces and sharp tools, and maintain a clean and organised workspace. These lessons promote independence, responsibility, and safe working habits.

  As pupils progress, they begin to follow multi-step recipes, learning how to read and interpret instructions accurately. They are encouraged to explore flavours, ingredients, and cooking methods from different cultures, helping them develop a broader understanding of food and nutrition. Pupils also reflect on the importance of healthy eating, balanced diets, and making informed food choices.

• Art
  Art

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)Our KS3 Art curriculum offers pupil a wide range of 2D and 3D activities designed to inspire self-expression, imagination, and technical skill. Pupils explore a variety of materials, techniques, and processes to develop their confidence and creativity in both traditional and contemporary art forms.

  Through 2D activities such as drawing, painting, printmaking, and collage, pupils learn to use line, tone, colour, texture, and composition to communicate ideas and emotions. In 3D work, they experiment with sculpture, clay, wire, and mixed media to explore form, structure, and space.

• AQA Unit Awards
  AQA Unit Awards

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)At KS3, the AQA Unit Award Scheme(UAS)enables pupils to gain formal recognition for the development of knowledge, skills, and understanding in a wide range of subject areas,including humanities,art,design & technology,computing,outdoor and adventurous activities among others.Each unit is designed to promote engagement, build confidence, and support progression by breaking learning into manageable steps.The UAS approach allows us to celebrate every achievement and ensures that all pupils experience success.

• PE
  PE

  KS3 (Curriculum menu tab)The curriculum is structured around a three-weekly rotation of activities to accommodate short-term placements and ensure all pupils experience a broad and balanced programme.

  The curriculum is built around three core strands:

  • Invasion Games (e.g. football, hockey, rugby, basketball)
  • Net/Wall Games (e.g. tennis, badminton, rounders, table-tennis)
  • Athletics

  Through all activities, pupils will develop essential life skills such as turn-taking, managing success and failure, building resilience, showing persistence, and working collaboratively. Sport will be used as a vehicle to promote emotional regulation, self-confidence, and positive social interaction.