Welcome to AL!
AL is one class with two main learning pathways, semi-formal and exploratory.
Children who access the semi-formal pathway have a wide range of needs. Sessions are targeted towards developing and applying functional skills in preparation for life beyond the classroom. Learning is brought to life through child led topics where children also access parts of the national curriculum.
Children who access the exploratory pathway have a higher level of needs therefore sessions include highly engaging activities in order to develop early communication and personal care skills. Sessions, which are heavily child led, focus on sensory needs and exploration.
In both pathways, we emphasise the importance of communication skills, social interaction, self-regulation, physical development as well as the foundations for mathematical understanding and literacy skills. Pupils are working towards individual learning outcomes which are developed, set and supported by the class teacher, SENCO (special educational needs co-ordinator) and other professionals such as speech and language therapists and occupational therapists.
Summer Curriculum:
This term we will continue to enjoy our topic called ‘Staying Alive’. We will focus our learning on the story ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. During this topic we will also be learning about how animals including humans stay alive. Another part of the topic will explore the creation story.
Language Development
There are many opportunities to for children to develop their language throughout the day, from our hello routine in the morning to role play activities and enjoying stories in class. We encourage children to use a Core Vocabulary Board, if necessary, to support their communication. Children in AL also have a personalised language curriculum that is developed by NHS Speech and Language Therapists and implemented in our weekly timetable.
Sensory Circuit
Each day, our children engage in a sensory circuit that develops their gross motor control. This half term, they will be following a programme which focuses on ‘alerting, organisation and calming’ to enable children to focus concentration in readiness for the day’s learning. The circuit also encourages the development of the child’s sensory processing skills.
Daily fine motor activities and weekly cooking sessions provide regular opportunities for children’s fine motor strength and control to develop.
Phonics
Children will be following the RWI programme at the stage appropriate to the current development. There will be lots of opportunities for children to apply their developing phonetic knowledge when reading and writing in meaningful contexts, for example making lists for ingredients we have used in cooking. Some children will also have access to a specialised reading programme to help develop their skills in reading and writing.
Maths
As we continue to review addition, subtraction, multiplication and number. We will also be learning about time and money.
Literacy
In literacy, children will begin to make up their own sentences and say them aloud, after discussions with the teacher. Also, write down one sentence that they have rehearsed ensuring they have included full stops and capital letters.
In a familiar story/rhyme, we will encourage the pupil to talk about events in the story and link them to their own experiences.
Cooking
Each week children will have the opportunity to cook a range of sweet and savoury. They enjoy developing skills in chopping, grating, mixing and more. Look out for delicious dishes every Wednesday and please return the containers. Thank you!
P.E
We will be enjoying cricket this term. Children will focus on developing skills in ball control, catching a ball, rolling a ball, batting and throwing.
Educational visits
We hope to enjoy sports day in the park this term as well as a fun trip to Tumbling Bay Park.
Important information
Snack and water bottles
Fruit is now provided for children in school but you are welcome to still provide a healthy snack of your child's choice.
P.E
Our P.E day is Thursday. Please make sure you send your child into school in their P.E kit and appropriate footwear.
Cooking
We cook on a Wednesday afternoon so look out for some delicious food every Wednesday! Please return the containers each week.
As we head into the colder month of the year, please make sure children have a warm coat every day and wearing appropriate foot wear.
Homework
Are you feeling worried about something?
With everything that is happening at the moment, it is perfectly normal to be worried. If there are things which are making you feel sad, angry or upset then there are people you can talk to and some wonderful resources to help you.
Our Worry Box has now been closed for the Summer Holidays but we have compiled some links and techniques to help you cope with any emotions you are struggling with.
