Lower School Curriculum
Welcome to the Lower School Curriculum at Harlow Fields School and College, where our commitment to "Working Together to Succeed" is at the heart of everything we do. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of our pupils, all of whom have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We believe that every pupil deserves the opportunity to thrive, develop their skills, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Our Lower School Curriculum focuses on creating a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence. We aim to provide a rich and engaging educational experience that not only meets the academic requirements but also supports the personal and social development of our pupils.
At Harlow Fields School and College, we recognise the critical role that phonics plays in developing our pupils' reading and writing skills. Phonics provides the foundation for literacy by helping pupils understand the relationship between sounds and letters, which is essential for decoding words. To support this vital aspect of our curriculum, we implement the Twinkl phonics programme. This structured approach ensures that our pupils receive systematic and engaging phonics instruction, enabling them to build their confidence and proficiency in reading as they progress through their educational journey. By prioritising phonics, we are committed to equipping our pupils with the essential skills they need to succeed.
Key Features of Our Curriculum:
- Individualised Learning: We recognise that each pupil has their own strengths, interests, and learning styles. Our curriculum is tailored to ensure that all pupils can access learning at their own pace, with appropriate support and resources.
- Holistic Development: Our curriculum promotes not just academic achievement but also emotional and social growth. We incorporate therapeutic thinking practises and opportunities for pupils to support one another, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
- Engaging and Relevant Content: We strive to make learning meaningful by connecting it to real-life experiences and interests. Our curriculum includes a variety of subjects and activities that encourage exploration and discovery.
- Building Cultural Capital: We are dedicated to enhancing our pupils' cultural awareness and understanding. Through diverse learning experiences, we aim to broaden their horizons and enrich their knowledge of the world around them.
- Focus on Communication and Literacy: Recognising the importance of reading and writing, our curriculum includes a strong emphasis on developing communication skills. We implement a structured approach to phonics and reading to ensure that all pupils can become confident readers and writers.
At Harlow Fields School and College, we are excited to embark on this educational journey with our pupils. Together, we will work towards achieving their goals, celebrating their successes, and ensuring that they are well-prepared for the next stages of their education and life.