Bridge Pathway
Core Purpose
We recognise that for some learners that have been referred to The Bridge it is because they have become disengaged from learning. They have struggled to access learning and to see the value in education. For some they have seen gaps in their learning impacting their knowledge and understanding. They often exhibit a wide range of both emotional and educational needs which impact on their progress.
Our aim within the Bridge is to provide a high-quality provision for all and to try and fill the gaps that some have experienced during their learning journey. Learners experience a ‘fresh start’ and a more personalised learning experience, providing them with confidence and knowledge to access the next stage in their educational journey.
In Key Stage 3 the aim is to support learners in providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to successfully reintegrate back into mainstream lessons. For KS4 the aim is to provide an alternative, inclusive curriculum to allow students to become confident individuals who can recognise the values of education. Enabling learners with the skills needed to live a safe, healthy, and fulfilling life once they leave school.
We will do this by providing a positive learning experience in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment. Where learners are motivated and challenged whatever their ability, promoting a safe space where achievement is possible for all. So that all learners gain the skills and confidence to allow them to become successful members of our community
Staffing Structure
Assistant Principal Inclusion – Mr Abbey
Department Lead – Ms Wilson
Bridge Instructors – Miss Bicknell, Miss Green, Miss Cosans and Miss Clark
Mainstream Teaching Specialists
Learning in The Bridge
Due to the needs of the students learning may at times look different from what you would expect to see in mainstream classes. Activities designed to provide ‘quick wins’ and success for students are often utilized. For some students there is a need to re engage the students and break down barriers to learning. An example of this is that when a student first joins The Bridge they may spend a number of lessons observing the group before they join in with the lessons. A large majority of learners in The Bridge are often reluctant to write for extended periods. Therefore, teachers look to use alternative methods of working where activities can be hands on such as students producing presentations, constructing models and through group discussion.
Students in The Bridge are expected to complete all classwork to a high standard and take pride in their presentation
Learning Outside of The Bridge
A number of lessons take place outside of The Bridge classrooms due to the specific requirements of that subject e.g. PE, DT and Catering. For these lessons students will be escorted to and from the subject. Students should display a high standard of behaviour during this transition. It is essential that this behaviour will continue to be displayed while in the subject area. Failure to do so may result in the student not being able to access the subject.
Curriculum
In The Bridge lessons are 30 minutes long. Research has shown that students with additional needs (both academic and behaviour) struggle to maintain focus for extended periods of time. It is between 40-60 minutes that a large number of negative behavioural events occur. The curriculum is therefore adapted from what is taught in mainstream classes. To accommodate this students in The Bridge, receive an increased number of core subject lessons.
Subjects Studied:
Key Stage 3 | Key Stage 4 |
English | English Language GCSE |
Maths | English Literature GCSE |
Science | English Functional Skills |
Geography | Maths GCSE |
History | Maths Functional Skills |
RE | Science GCSE |
Catering | BTEC Home Cooking Skills |
Computer Science | BTEC iMedia |
Life Skills | AQA Certificates |
AQA Certificates | DT Award |
Numeracy | Life Skills |
Literacy | Art |
DT | PE |
Art | Careers |
Music | |
PE | |
Social Skills | |
Enrichment | |
Gauntlet Auto Project Ivy Reign Hair and Beauty Project Bridge Projects |