At Baston House School, the curriculum underpins the ethos of the school and strives to provide the context within which autistic pupils are given the opportunity to achieve high standards.

In line with the National Curriculum we aim to help pupils do the following:

• Use English and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods to express themselves clearly and confidently, and to understand others with equal clarity and confidence
• understand mathematical ideas and apply numerical skills
• understand basic scientific ideas and concepts
• gain a basic understanding of historical and geographical skills and knowledge
• acquire control of tools, computers and digital technology
• appreciate the joys and benefits of physical education and experience a range of sporting activities
• use music, drama and arts and craft forms as a means of creative expression
• to spend their leisure time imaginatively, independently and co-operatively in formal and non-structured environment
• develop self-help skills to foster independence and be aware of the rewards and dangers of society in preparation for adult life
• access meaningful work experience and non-biased careers advice
• develop self-awareness and regulatory skills to enable them to successfully participate in society

Key Stage 3 – Years 7 to 9

CORE CURRICULUM

• English: with an emphasis on social communication and functional skills
• Mathematics: including direct teaching of problem-solving and reasoning skills
• Science
• ICT

WIDER CURRICULM

• PSHE, including Relationship and Sex Education
• Physical Education
• History
• Geography
• Music
• Art
• Outdoor Learning
• Independent Living
• Careers
• Technology: Pupils at KS3 will rotate Food Technology and DT

Key Stage 4 – Years 10 and 11

CORE CURRICULUM

• English: Entry Level, Functional Skills and GCSE
• Mathematics: Entry Level, Functional Skills and GCSE
• Science: Entry Level and Combined Science Trilogy
• ICT

WIDER CURRICULUM

• PSHE, including Relationship and Sex Education
• Physical Education
• Independent Living
• Travel Training
• Careers

OPTIONS

At KS4 each pupil will have the opportunity to choose and study a range of specialist subjects.  There is a wide range of specialist subjects available, spanning a variety of exam board subject specifications (GCSE, ELC, Functional Skills, BTEC, NCFE, Trinity Rock & Pop & UAS).  Examples include:

• BTEC Art & Design Level 2
• BTEC First in ICT
• BTEC First in Sport
• BTEC Home Cooking Skills
• BTEC Music Technology
• Trinity Rock & Pop
• BTEC Performing Arts
• UAS:
  • Art
  • Design Technology
  • Food Technology
  • Sport
  • Trade
  • Outdoor Learning
  • Film Studies
  • Digital Technology
  • Business

KS4 Option Selection Process

Each academic year, the KS4 option curriculum booklet with subject snapshots of the current offer at Baston House School is shared with pupils and parents.  Our pupils will follow for independent living.  During our options evening, pupils and parents have the opportunity to meet with the subject teacher and ask any questions.  Following this, pupils are given the option sheets to select from three option pathways, which will be reviewed by the subject specialist teacher to ensure pupils are entered and achieve the accredited qualifications relevant to their academic ability.

Key Stage 5 – Years 12 to 14

CORE CURRICULUM

• English: Continuation or resits of Entry Level, Functional Skills and GCSE
• Mathematics: Continuation or resists of Entry Level, Functional Skills and GCSE

WIDER CURRICULUM

• PSHE, including Relationship and Sex Education
• Health & Fitness
• Preparation for Adulthood
• Careers