At Wightwick Hall School, we believe every learner deserves a curriculum that is ambitious, inclusive, and meaningful. Our approach is designed to inspire a love of learning, promote independence, and prepare students for life beyond school. Through personalised pathways, we provide real-world experiences, functional skills, and opportunities that enable every student to thrive.

Our curriculum is built around four pathways: Discoverers, Navigators, Pathfinders, and Pioneers. Each pathway offers a tailored learning journey that reflects individual needs, strengths, and aspirations, ensuring continuity from early years through to post-16. We focus on developing communication, social and emotional skills, and practical knowledge that supports success both in education and in everyday life.

By combining high expectations with accessibility and support, we aim to create an environment where every student can achieve their full potential and leave school equipped for a confident, independent future.

Pioneers (Post‑16, Semi‑Formal/Formal)

Intent

• Prepare students for adulthood through vocational learning, independence skills, and functional literacy/numeracy.
• Provide clear progression into further education, training, or employment.

Implementation

• Personalised learning plans including work experience, community projects, and life skills training.
• Use of assistive technology and differentiated resources to support diverse needs.

Impact

• Students develop confidence, resilience, and employability skills.
• Positive transition outcomes tracked through individual plans and post-school destinations.

Pathfinders (Years 9–10, Semi‑Formal/Formal)

Intent

• Build on prior learning with a focus on core subjects and preparation for accredited qualifications.
• Foster social and emotional development alongside academic progress.

Implementation

• Deliver project-based learning and cross-curricular themes to maintain engagement.
• Regular formative assessments to guide personalised targets.

Impact

• Students show measurable progress in literacy, numeracy, and communication.
• Increased readiness for post-16 pathways and independence.

Navigators (Years 7–8, Semi‑Formal/Formal)

Intent

• Provide a broad, balanced curriculum aligned with the National Curriculum.
• Develop communication, social skills, and emotional regulation.

Implementation

• Use multi-sensory teaching and flexible delivery frameworks.
• Encourage curiosity through experiential learning and student-led exploration.

Impact

• Students demonstrate improved engagement and confidence in learning.
• Strong foundations for progression into Key Stage 4 pathways.

Discoverers (Pre-Formal/Informal)

Intent

• Create an inclusive environment that prioritises sensory engagement and communication development.
• Support well-being and interaction through highly personalised experiences.

Implementation

• Use multi-sensory approaches, assistive technology, and therapeutic input.
• Collaborate with families and external specialists for holistic support.

 

Impact

• Students achieve personalised targets in communication and independence.
• Enhanced quality of life and positive relationships within school and community.