Learning That Makes a Difference

Our Curriculum

A hands-on, engaging curriculum for students with SEND — practical skills, academic foundations and real-world experience.

Ages 11–18 (Key Stage 3, 4 & 5)

A Practical, Skills-Based Approach

Our curriculum is designed to engage, inspire and prepare students for life beyond school

Animal Care & Equine Studies

Hands-on learning with horses, dogs and small animals builds responsibility, empathy and vocational skills.

Vocational Training & Qualifications

Opportunities to earn nationally recognised units and awards through AQA, City & Guilds, Open Awards and ASDAN.

Personal Development & Wellbeing

Social skills, resilience and emotional intelligence — essential skills for life beyond school.

Core Academic Subjects

Tailored English, maths, science and ICT help every student master essentials at their own pace.

Outdoor Learning & Life Skills

Gardening, farm work and environmental projects foster independence and teamwork.

Building Blocks for Success

Our approach ensures every student develops the skills they need to thrive

1

Personalised Learning Paths

Individual routes tailored to each student's strengths, needs and aspirations.

2

Reinforcement & Progression

Core skills are revisited, refined and strengthened at each stage of learning.

3

Executive Function Skills

Teamwork, listening, creative thinking, problem solving, communication and resilience woven through daily learning.

4

Career Readiness & Application

Practical experiences prepare students for further education, employment or independent living.

Accredited Learning at Changing Lives

We recognise the importance of ensuring that we offer our students the opportunity to work towards accredited learning opportunities that are nationally recognised.

As part of our Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 offer, each student works towards appropriate, meaningful and relevant qualifications.

  • Entry Level through to GCSE qualifications
  • Recognised by employers and training providers
  • Differentiated to meet individual needs
  • Portfolio-based evidence of achievement

What Students Work Towards

Students build portfolios from Entry Level through to GCSE in a range of subjects, with each achievement reflecting their level of ability in line with national frameworks.

English

Entry Level – GCSE

Mathematics

Entry Level – GCSE

Science

Entry Level – GCSE

Personal Development

Employability Skills

Independent Living

Life Skills

Employment Prep

Work Readiness

Our aim is for all students to leave the school with a range of qualifications which showcase their knowledge and transferable functional skills, demonstrating they are exceptionally well prepared for their next steps.

Accredited Learning & Policy

We partner with AQA, City & Guilds, Open Awards, ASDAN and The King's Trust. Learn how qualifications fit within our curriculum.