Early Years Foundation Stage / Key Stage One 5-7yrs

Six areas:

• Communication language and literacy / Communication and Literacy
• Problem solving reasoning and Numeracy / Numeracy and communication
• Knowledge and understanding of the world / Community skills
• Physical Development / Physical Skills
• Creative Development / Art and Sensory
• Personal Social and Emotional Development / Personal and Social skills

The Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage One at The Russett is an ‘Outstanding’ department identifying children’s individual needs and creating a personalised learning experience around this.

We focus highly on communication, behaviour management and social skills equipping children at a very early age with independence skills that they can use for the rest of their lives.

Key Stage Two 7-11yrs

Key Stage Two comprises of pupils aged between 7-11 who are in Year 3,4,5 or 6.

At the Russett School we are following a thematic approach to teaching the National Curriculum as this enables pupils to have a holistic approach to learning linking skills and knowledge taught across the theme. We have adapted the National Curriculum to meet the needs of our pupils with an emphasis on a multi-sensory approach to teaching and learning.

We believe that communication skills lie at the heart of teaching and learning and so we use various communication methods such as signing, PECS, communication aids and objects of reference so that we can communicate effectively with the pupils and they can communicate with us.

Key Stage 3. 11-14yrs

In some schools the move from Juniors to Seniors can be a big step; for our students it is a smooth transition as we are housed in one building, the students know all the staff well and they maintain contact with their friends. As the pupils progress through the school there are increased expectations and our students are encouraged to be as independent as possible and to be responsible for themselves and their belongings within their capabilities.

For students at Key Stage 3 learning activities are organised through schemes of work which are derived from the National Curriculum but adapted to suit the learning needs of the individual. There is a three year cycle which maps out the themes to be taught. Students are set challenging targets but there is a commitment to fun and enjoyment whilst learning. Students study not only in the classroom but also in the different school environments and the local community. There are also opportunities to participate in educational visits and extra curricular activities.

Key Stage 4. 14-16yrs

At Key Stage 4 we aspire to provide a stimulating learning environment that will motivate young minds to achieve their full potential. Our team of highly-trained staff provide high quality teaching for learning to address the special needs of our students. A range of accredited courses boost learning opportunities and raise achievements in a caring ethos which nurtures positive relationships and fosters the growth of responsible behaviour. The philosophy behind the provision is that of a whole team approach, where there is an acceptance on the part of every member of staff that the learning experiences of all students are the shared responsibility of all staff.

At key stage 4 we aim to meet the individual needs of all pupils - intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.

All students will have the opportunity to:

• Build a bespoke pathway towards developing independence
• Develop life and living skills to live within their community
• Develop skills towards economic and personal wellbeing
• Achieved nationally recognised accreditation by gaining a diploma in ‘Life and Living Skills’ – accredited by OCR

Sixth Form 16-19yrs

In the Sixth Form we aim to provide a challenging curriculum that meets the diverse learning needs of our students, as well as preparing them for adult life. We deliver a curriculum linked to nationally accredited courses which is tailored to students’ individual needs, interests and priorities. Our curriculum is evolving in order to offer options for our older students, which develop their functional and personal skills, as well as encouraging them to take responsibility for their own learning.

Our personalised progression pathways will include a range of college links enabling students to gain real experience of life after school and make decisions about their future. They are encouraged to take an active role in the running of the school through the School Council and to act as positive role models for younger students through our “Buddying” scheme.

Our ultimate aim is that our students leave The Russett School and Cheshire MSI as happy, mature and assertive adults, equipped with the skills and independence to make a positive contribution to the wider world, as well as having lots of fun along the way!