Learning Strategies

At Harlow Fields School and College, we believe that every pupil deserves a tailored educational experience that meets their unique needs. Our learning strategies are designed to create a bespoke approach for each child, ensuring that their individual strengths and challenges are recognised and addressed. By employing a variety of adaptive teaching methods, we empower our educators to modify their instruction, provide targeted support, and foster an inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive. Our commitment to understanding each child's learning journey enables us to cultivate their potential and promote their personal growth, ultimately leading to success in their educational endeavours.

1. Attention Autism

  • Overview: This programme engages pupils with autism and social communication difficulties through dynamic and enjoyable activities.

  • Benefits:

    • Enhances communication by creating joyful learning experiences.

    • Promotes enthusiasm and creativity, making learning irresistible.

    • Implementation: Led by trained staff to ensure high-quality delivery across the school and college.

2. TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication Handicapped Children)

  • Overview: A structured teaching approach that focuses on visual supports and structured environments to enhance learning for pupils with autism.

  • Benefits:

    • Promotes independence by using visual schedules and clear expectations.

    • Supports communication and social skills through structured interactions and activities.

3. Play-Based Learning

  • Overview: Emphasises the importance of play in developing various skills.

  • Benefits:

    • Facilitates social interaction, critical thinking, and motor skills development.

    • Provides opportunities for real-life skills through structured and unstructured play.

4. TACPAC

  • Overview: Utilises sensory communication through touch and music.

  • Benefits:

    • Enhances communication skills and body awareness through sensory experiences.

5. Social Stories

  • Overview: Short narratives that explain social situations and expectations.

  • Benefits:

    • Aids in developing self-care and social skills.

    • Helps pupils understand perspectives and cope with changes.

Alignment with Best Practises

These strategies align well with current best practises in special education, particularly in creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. Here are a few key points of alignment:

  1. Engagement and Motivation: The Attention Autism programme and play-based learning foster intrinsic motivation, which is crucial for effective learning (DfE Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework).

  2. Communication Development: The TACPAC and TEACCH approaches provide structured methodologies to enhance communication, allowing pupils to express themselves and understand social cues better (DfE Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework).

By continuing to implement and refine these strategies, Harlow Fields School and College can further enhance the learning experiences of its pupils, ensuring they are well-supported in their educational journeys.