Whole school curriculum
West Kirby School curriculum
West Kirby School and College offers an innovative curriculum developed with the aspirations and interests of the student at the centre. At West Kirby School and College, all pupils follow the 2014 National Curriculum including our personalised PSHE provision. We have ambitious qualification opportunities to suit a range of learning abilities; from the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), A/AS Level, GCSE, BTEC, Cambridge Nationals to Entry Level Certificate.
This is supported by our wider Support Services Team who provide a wide range of support who enable our pupils to access a broad, balanced curriculum.
What subjects are part of our curriculum?
To find out more about our subjects offered across our school curriculum, from Key Stage One to Post 16, visit our Subject Information pages in this section.
Our curriculum across the school
Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2)
Our Primary curriculum ensures learning is promoted through discovery, exploration and creation in a supportive and enriching environment based on the interests of pupils. Creative learning and thinking is at the heart of everything we strive to achieve. In Key stage 1 all of our pupils receive an innovative and creative education that challenges their knowledge, skills and abilities to a point at which they are making exceptional progress. Through our ambitious new curriculum, we want to enable all pupils to become motivated, engaged and inspired lifelong learners.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6)
In Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6) the teaching and learning of our curriculum enables staff and children to have the belief that everyone has the ability to inspire and help our children change; and achieve excellence in their own way. We strive to unlock potential through developing knowledge and creativity. Pupils have the opportunity to work together outside of the classroom and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Pupils study English, Maths, Science, Computing, History, Geography, Design and Food Technology, Art, Music, Drama, Mandarin Chinese, Physical Education, R.E, Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE).
Our broad and balanced, child centred curriculum ensures our pupils are ready for their next stage of learning in our Secondary provision.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
In Key Stage 3 all of our pupils follow a broad and balanced curriculum designed to provide them with strong foundations for further study, to nurture a sense of enjoyment in their work and to give them a chance to develop their own strengths and interests.
Pupils study English, Maths, Science, Computing, History, Geography, Design and Food Technology, Art, Music, Drama, German, Physical Education, and Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) and Animal Care. Pupils also have the opportunity to study Mandarin Chinese.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
Students move into Key Stage 4 at the beginning of Year 10. At this point they will study the 'core' curriculum.
The core curriculum at Key Stage 4 consists of English, Mathematics, Science) PSHE & Citizenship, Physical Education and Religious Studies.
Students then select 4 'options' from the list of additional choices. Subjects offered include Art and Design, Computer Science, Drama, Geography, German, History, Music, 3d Art and design, Photography, Classics, Information Technology, Computer Science, Duke of Edinburgh, Engineering and Design, Creative i-media, Horticulture, Animal Care, Chinese, Graphics, Food Technology, Graphics and Life Skills.
Our aim is that all students leave Key Stage 4 able to progress to a range of Vocational or Academic courses, or to further training linked to their chosen career. In order to achieve this, all students and their families will receive expert advice, guidance and support.
Key Stage 5 (Post 16)
Our Post 16 provision provides pupils with the opportunity to resit qualifications and have further opportunity to study a limited amount of subjects to AS and A Level standard. Post 16 is an excellent opportunity to develop life skills ready for the next stage of their education or work. Enterprise skills are also developed, alongside numerous opportunities to visit colleges and places of work.
Our curriculum aims are:
- To ensure all our children are at the centre of a broad, varied and interesting learning experience that is enjoyable and relevant for the future
- For all pupils to gain 5 GCSE or equivalent by year 11
- Our creative curriculum aims to create a sense of awe and wonder and helps to inspire a lifelong love of learning
- The holistic nature of our practice promotes positive mental health and well-being and enhances our children’s life skills, social skills and cultural awareness
- Relationships are developed between children and adults that are positive, consistent and secure
- Provide an environment which meets the needs of all children
- Meet sensory needs
- Develop self-awareness and self-control
- Develop resilience and motivation for learning
- Support children in responding to change
- Recognise and support anxiety in children
- Celebrate success in all its forms
Consistent approach for Residential pupils
For residential young people the Care staff follow the guidance from school staff to ensure that they are able to support each pupils learning needs. The learning resources used within school are also available on the Residential groups thus ensuring a consistent approach to supporting the development, in all areas, of resident pupils.
Our curriculum rationale
At West Kirby School and College, we believe that children are entitled to a curriculum that raises the aspirations of every child and gives them the confidence to fulfil their potential through positive learning experiences. West Kirby School and College is a school for pupils with complex learning needs including Autism and ADHD. This impacts on individual development and, to differing extents, shapes the nature of the child’s learning experience.
Education for children at West Kirby and College should reflect the unique presentation of each individual, for example meeting sensory needs, providing for social and communication difference or challenging areas of strength. Core aims of the curriculum at West Kirby School and College are to support the child in developing independence, to encourage a positive sense of self and to promote a positive attitude to learning.
Pupils at West Kirby School and College require a support network that is cohesive. We believe it is imperative to work in close partnership with parents, carers and families, to facilitate the sharing of good practice and success across all environments. Drawing on the expertise our school provides including: Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Clinical Psychologist and Pastoral Care Team ensures we have a dynamic and holistic approach to every child.