The curriculum offered at Bettridge School is specifically adapted from the National Curriculum to provide for the academic and personal development of all pupils with learning difficulties. The starting point for the curriculum is the individual child with a programme designed to meet his/her needs taken from the full available curriculum. Every child has an individual education plan which identifies their learning priorities and any specialist strategies.

The Bettridge curriculum comprises of three complementary and overlapping curriculum elements and allows the use of personal (including behavioural and sensory) and therapeutic approaches alongside subject based activities. The balance between subject based sessions, personal and therapeutic input may vary for each of these pupils and is planned according to individual needs. It aims to promote self advocacy, pupil voice and opportunities for decision making for all pupils. A Total Communication approach and TEACCH strategies are used across the school to provide greater access to the curriculum.

The emphasis placed upon different areas will change as children move through the school. Throughout the school, great emphasis is placed on communication skills. For those at early developmental stages, objects, photographs and symbols and signs are used extensively to make choices. As their skills develop pupils are encouraged to use language appropriately in academic and social situations.

The other important element of the curriculum, which is continually addressed, is the development of functional independence for all pupils. From the earliest years onwards, pupils are taught appropriate self-help skills. There is emphasis upon the necessary behaviour to work and play happily with others in a group and as pupils get older, increasing activities are planned within the local community.

The early learning goals for the Foundation stage are designed to lead pupils into the National Curriculum, which is composed of the core subjects English, Maths, Science, Information Technology and the foundation subjects: P.E., Geography, History, Design & Technology, Music and Art. The curriculum at Bettridge School is structured to ensure that Personal, Social and Health Education is accorded the status of a core subject, alongside the academic subjects and pupils also have a greater access to physical activities than is usually provided in a primary or secondary school. All pupils are taught Religious Education according to the Gloucestershire agreed syllabus.

Special Educational Needs Policy

As required, the school has a policy on Special Educational Needs. A copy is obtainable, on request, from the Headteacher.

Total Communication

Bettridge School supports a philosophy of ‘Total Communication’ throughout all classes. This means that staff respond to and encourage whatever methods of communication pupils use. This helps them to have equal opportunity to express their needs and choices in both education and social activities. This includes the use of body language, objects, photographs, symbols, text, signing, voice output aids and speech.

Complaints Procedure