The Enhanced Pathway at Botley School: Nurturing Communication and Interaction

We are thrilled to have established the Enhanced Pathway at Botley School, a dedicated Special Educational Needs class designed to provide exceptional educational provision for pupils with specific communication and interaction needs. This specialised setting is designed to meet the needs of pupils whose learning requirements necessitate a highly tailored approach, exceeding the level of support typically available within a mainstream classroom environment.

The Enhanced Pathway also extends its reach through outreach work, providing targeted interventions and support for pupils who are primarily integrated within mainstream classrooms but benefit from additional assistance and structured time away from the larger class setting.

A Tailored Curriculum for Individual Growth:

The Enhanced Pathway curriculum is carefully constructed around a play-based learning philosophy, with a strong emphasis on individualised targets for each pupil.

Learning activities are meticulously selected to nurture and develop the five key areas of the Engagement Model:

• Exploration: Encouraging curiosity and a sense of discovery through hands-on experiences and sensory exploration.
• Realisation: Supporting pupils in making connections, understanding concepts, and demonstrating their learning in meaningful ways.
• Anticipation: Developing the ability to predict, plan, and sequence actions, fostering a sense of agency and control.
• Persistence: Building resilience, perseverance, and the ability to work through challenges, promoting a growth mindset.
• Initiation: Empowering pupils to take initiative, express their ideas, and actively participate in their learning journey.

This play-based approach allows children to learn and develop at their own pace, building confidence and fostering a love of learning. The curriculum is highly adaptable and responsive to the unique needs and learning styles of each child within the Enhanced Pathway.
 

Integration and Inclusion:

For pupils who are integrated into mainstream classrooms for a portion of their school day, the Enhanced Pathway provides a supportive base. During these integrated periods, pupils follow the same curriculum as their peers, promoting inclusion and a sense of belonging within the wider school community. The Enhanced Pathway team works closely with mainstream teachers to ensure a smooth transition and consistent learning experience for these pupils. The dedicated time spent in the Enhanced Pathway allows for targeted interventions, individualised support, and a quieter, more focused learning environment, which can be particularly beneficial for pupils with communication and interaction needs. This balanced approach allows pupils to benefit from both specialised support and the social and academic opportunities offered within the mainstream setting.

Staff in the Enhanced Pathway