At Waterloo Lodge, our curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for adulthood. Alongside academic learning, pupils develop independence, social understanding, wellbeing and life skills that will support them in further education, employment, community participation and adult life.
Curriculum Pathways
We offer both formal and semi-formal curriculum pathways to ensure learning is delivered at a level that reflects pupils’ developmental stage and learning needs.
The formal pathway provides subject-specific teaching across a broad range of curriculum areas, with pupils moving between lessons throughout the school day and working towards appropriate qualifications.
The semi-formal pathway uses a more thematic and integrated approach to learning. Pupils are primarily based in one classroom and develop key skills through carefully planned learning experiences that promote communication, engagement, independence and functional understanding. Pupils on this pathway also have opportunities to achieve accredited qualifications that recognise their progress and achievements.
What Pupils Learn
Pupils access a broad and balanced curriculum which includes English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Creative Arts, Food Technology, Horticulture and PSHE, including Relationships and Sex Education (RSE). Learning opportunities are designed to develop both academic understanding and the practical skills needed for everyday life.
Alongside academic subjects, pupils develop Independent Living Skills that help prepare them for adulthood. This includes areas such as personal wellbeing, community participation, money management, home skills and employability.
Additional Support for Learning
We recognise that pupils may have gaps in their learning due to previous educational experiences. Where needed, pupils receive targeted interventions in English and Mathematics to strengthen key skills, build confidence and support progress across the curriculum.
Our Senior Wellbeing Lead also works with pupils to develop social, emotional and self-regulation skills. These sessions help pupils understand themselves, build positive relationships and develop strategies to support their wellbeing and engagement in school.
Personal Development
Personal development is embedded throughout the curriculum. Through PSHE, SMSC opportunities, British Values, equality and diversity education, pupils develop the knowledge and understanding needed to build positive relationships, stay safe and participate successfully in modern society. Pupils also have opportunities to contribute to school life through groups such as the School Council and Eco-Council, helping them develop leadership skills, responsibility and an understanding of active citizenship.
Careers and Preparation for Adulthood
Preparing pupils for their next steps is a key part of our curriculum. Through our Independent Living Skills programme and wider curriculum, pupils learn about future pathways, employment and life beyond school.
Pupils benefit from independent careers advice and guidance, visits from employers and local organisations, workplace visits, links with local colleges and opportunities for volunteering and work-related learning. These experiences help pupils develop aspirations, understand the opportunities available to them and make informed decisions about their futures.
Qualifications and Next Steps
We have high aspirations for every pupil and recognise that success looks different for every learner. Pupils work towards a range of recognised qualifications, including Functional Skills and Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications, which celebrate achievement and support progression.
Qualifications are carefully selected to help pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for their next steps, whether that involves further education, training, employment, volunteering or increased independence in adult life.
Structure of the School Day
The school day begins at 8:40am. Pupils finish at 2:45pm Monday to Thursday and 1:30pm on Fridays.
Monday to Thursday, pupils have six 45-minute lessons, alongside a dedicated 15-minute reading session to promote literacy and a love of reading.
Pupils begin the day with their form tutor, providing an opportunity to check in, prepare for learning and build positive relationships. A longer form time takes place after lunch, where pupils engage in activities linked to SMSC development, British Values, equality and diversity, current affairs and personal development.
On Fridays, lessons finish at 11:15am and pupils take part in Enrichment activities. Each form group explores a termly theme through practical activities, projects and visits within the local community. At the end of each term, pupils participate in a visit linked to their learning theme.
A range of activities are also available during social times. Pupils can attend lunchtime clubs such as Brick Club, Colouring Club and LGBTQ+ Club, or participate in physical activities on the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).