Communication and Interaction Curriculum Pathways

The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of learners aged 4–11 years of age  with communication and interaction needs. It is ambitious, coherently sequenced, and enables pupils to make progress from their individual developmental starting points, from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and into the National Curriculum, where appropriate. We foster independence by encouraging learners to make choices, initiate communication, and use their skills across different contexts. As learners gain confidence in expressing their needs and preferences, they experience increased self-esteem, engagement, and participation in the wider curriculum. Ultimately, our goal is for every learner to leave us as an effective communicator for lifelong learning, supporting them to continue their journey in their mainstream or specialist placement. 

Our intent is to ensure that every learner develops the ability to communicate their needs, choices, and feelings effectively through their preferred methods. We follow a Total Communication approach, valuing and promoting all forms of communication—verbal language, signing, symbols, communication boards, body language, and assistive technologies. By embedding this approach throughout the curriculum, we utilize every opportunity for learners to express themselves, build meaningful connections, and develop confidence in their communication. Progression in communication is carefully planned and personalised, ensuring that each learner moves from early awareness and intentional communication to more independent and purposeful interaction.

Curriculum pathways are personalised through placement goals and Personalised Learning Goals linked to (EHCP) outcomes. The curriculum is designed to support pupils to be well prepared for their next stage of education and for lifelong learning. It is delivered through carefully planned, engaging, and responsive teaching approaches that are matched to each learner’s developmental stage and learning style ensuring learning is motivating and meaningful. Learning is closely monitored through ongoing observations, and assessment of engagement and wellbeing. We track progress in Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social, Emotional development.

The impact of our curriculum is that learners make sustained progress from their individual starting points, showing increased engagement, confidence, and emotional wellbeing. The curriculum structure allows every learner to be supported to achieve their full potential, celebrating progress in all its forms and preparing learners for future learning and life beyond the provision.

With our commitment to collaborative working, we maintain regular and purposeful communication with schools, families and relevant professionals. This includes the sharing of progress information, and sharing knowledge.  

	The Discovery curriculum pathway is based on guidance from Gradual Steps, Birth to Five and Development Matters.  The focus is on early communication, sensory engagement, emotional regulation and physical development.    This pathway enables pupils to develop and secure the strong foundations of their knowledge and skills. Each learner has Personalised Learning Goals set from their Education, Health and Care Plans.
	The Explorers’ pathway is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, alongside outcomes for Communication and Language. This pathway supports knowledge and skills development through an immersive curriculum and continuous provision. This pathway is for pupils who are not yet ready to access a more formal way of learning. The pathway includes clear structure and routine e.g. group time, Curiosity, Attention Autism, Intensive Interaction and learning through play. Each learner has Personalised Learning Goals set from their Education, Health and Care Plans.
	The Pathfinder pathway is designed to support pupils who can access a more formal curriculum. They are working within the National Curriculum.   This pathway is supported by more formal lesson structures alongside developing Communication and Language skills. Each learner has Personalised Learning Goals set from their Education, Health and Care Plans.