Curriculum Sharing & Development Days

 

“Leaders have developed an inspirational curriculum that ensures that learning is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils.” – Ofsted (June 2023)

Sunningdale School has developed a multi-tiered curriculum approach for pupils with severe, complex, profound and multiple learning difficulties. The school’s approach has been designed so that pupils at all levels can effectively apply their learning to develop independence and agency

Sunningdale School’s vision is encapsulated in the phrase, ‘Be More…’ This will be different for every child. Believing that every child can Be More means that we want every child to be more in whatever way is important to them. The school’s vision is actioned at a pupil level through the use of a highly personalised planning system supported by specific Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) and an understanding of Engagement motivators.

Classes are arranged across 3 theoretical pedagogical pathways that begin on transition from the Early Years Foundation Stage and run through Key Stages 1 and 2 until the pupils’ transition to relevant secondary provisions at the end of year 6. The pathways are the Pre-formal Pathway, the Explore Pathway and the Semi-formal Play Pathway. These are underpinned by a pre-formal, informal low-demand and semi-formal approach respectively. The school utilises a play-based pedagogy throughout.

The school’s pathways are supported by a multi-tiered curriculum model that is sequenced to towards cumulatively developing skills, knowledge and holistic development both within and across each pathway. Curriculum areas are closely matched to consider the developmental needs of the pupils in each pathway. The school developed its pathway approach based on the unique needs and growing complexity of the pupil groups attending the school. They are supported by a play based pedagogy as well as specific well known interventions and strategies. Strong links are made with Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) outcomes and subjects build cumulatively towards supporting these: Employment, Independent Living, Community Participation, Friendships & Relationships.

“Many schools are organised as they are because they always have been, not because they must be.” – Ken Robinson

Ours isn’t.

http://www.sunningdaleschool.com/curriculum/curriculumoverview.htm

We are establishing a series of practice sharing days where delegates will get to hear from senior and middle leaders about the school’s approach including how subjects, pedagogy and assessment are structured to support individualised outcomes for pupils working throughout the school. Delegates will have time to speak to senior and middle leaders as well as spend time in classrooms and see the schools facilities.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like minded provisions.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like-minded provisions.

The cost is set at £100 per person. The day will include a buffet lunch and networking session.

Please get in touch if you would like support with accommodation or travel recommendations.

Sunningdale School staff use an approach to mental health and wellbeing that is based on attachment research, child development and basic neuroscience research. The approach is known as ‘Thrive’. We are re-running our highly successful Family Thrive course to introduce parents/carers and other family members to the fundamentals of Thrive and how it works in practice.

Come on this course to find out about

• how our brains develop
• the relationship between feeling, thinking, and behaving.
• why play and creativity are so important to you and your child.
• how to support your child at times of change and difficulty.
• everyday trigger times and how to keep calm.
• how the Thrive approach is used in school.

Spaces will be limited 10 people per course. The course will be facilitated by Sunningdale school’s Head Teacher, James Waller and Family Partnership Adviser, Jan Patterson, who have extensive experience of working with children with severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties.

The understanding and approach is relevant to children of any developmental level and James and Jan will adapt to support individual children’s needs.

Participating parents said:

“I would definitely recommend this course for parents and practitioners. Excellent course made so much sense not only for my child, also for myself” (parent)

“It was a very informative and interesting course-have learned a lot! Thank You.” (parent)

“A very enjoyable and informative training course. I have learned lots about coping strategies” (parent)

The course will run from 9.30am- 11.30am on the following dates: 28th January, 4th February and 11th  February. You must be available for all 3 sessions to complete the course.

This training is heavily subsidised by school to make it accessible to parents. It is extremely popular and places are limited to 10 people. A £10 fee is required from parents to reserve a place. 

Please book early to avoid disappointment. 

Are you a senior leader in a SEND school struggling to find skilled staff who can confidently meet the unique needs of your pupils? Would you like to provide a career progression route for your talented team members, helping them grow into fully qualified teachers?

Join us for our Twilight Information Event to discover how Sunningdale’s bespoke training programme can help.

About the Programme
Our SEND Teacher Training Programme, developed in partnership with Northumbria University, offers a unique, school-led approach that equips trainees with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for SEND teaching

Why partner with us:

• Tailored Training: Trainees gain real-world experience in SEND schools, with dedicated Friday training from SEND specialists.
• Career Progression: Develop your own staff to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), specifically geared towards SEND.
• Financial Support: Partner schools receive a £1,000 bursary plus mentorship support.

What You’ll Gain from This Event

• Programme Overview: Discover pathways for ages 3-7 and 5-11 that combine in-school practice with university-led training.
• Partnership Benefits: Learn how your school benefits from targeted training, career progression options, and financial support.
• Success Stories: Hear how graduates are making an impact in their host schools.
• Meet the Team: Connect with us to see how the programme aligns with your school’s unique needs.

Secure your place today and take the next step in growing your SEND teaching team!

Teaching in a specialist school is more than a job; it’s a vocation that leaves a lasting legacy. If you’re looking for a career that’s far from ordinary, embraces challenges, and brings a meaningful impact to the lives of children in need, this might be the path for you.

To help you explore this rewarding profession, Sunningdale School is hosting a free introductory workshop about our SEND Teacher Training Programme, offered in partnership with high-performing SEND schools and Northumbria University. Designed specifically for postgraduates, our programme trains educators to teach children with special educational needs. Many of our trainees are already working in SEND schools, looking to gain full qualifications to advance their careers.

What to Expect at the Workshop

This interactive session offers a first-hand experience of life in a special needs school, with insights into our unique training programme. You’ll:

• Tour the School: See our learning environment and meet our dedicated teachers and inspiring pupils.
• Learn about the Training Programme: Discover how our programme prepares you for both mainstream and SEND teaching, with a focus on strategies to support children with special needs.
• Explore Practical Placements: Understand the benefits of real-world experience in SEND schools.
• Get Application Tips: Receive guidance on the application and interview process.
• Understand Mentoring Support: Learn about the extensive mentoring provided by experienced SEND educators.
• Discover Career Progression: See how the programme opens doors to rewarding opportunities within SEND teaching.
• Funding Information: Get details on loans and financial support available to make this career pathway accessible.

This free informal session is a great chance to ask questions, meet like-minded people, and decide if a career in SEND teaching is right for you.

Take the first step towards a career that makes a real difference—register your place today!

Why Choose Sunningdale?

This programme is tailored for postgraduates passionate about SEND. Many of our trainees are already SEND school staff seeking a clear progression route to qualified teacher status.

Can’t attend, but would like to chat to someone about the course and its requirements?

Email Jane: jane.shaw@sdunningdaleschool.com

A Full-Day Training Workshop for Educational Practitioners

Join us for an engaging and insightful full-day workshop focused on neurodiversity in education. Tailored specifically for teachers and teaching assistants in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) schools as well as mainstream settings, this workshop is designed to equip you with practical strategies to support and empower neurodiverse children in your classroom.

Workshop Highlights:

• Understanding Neurodiversity: Gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and neurodivergence and their impact on learning. Explore the unique strengths and challenges faced by neurodivergent learners, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions.
• Effective Strategies: Discover a range of evidence-based strategies and interventions to implement in both SEND and mainstream classrooms. Learn how to create an inclusive learning environment that meets the diverse needs of all students.
• Practical Tools: Participate in hands-on activities and discussions that provide you with practical tools and resources to take back to your school. From classroom adaptations to communication techniques, you’ll leave with actionable ideas to enhance your teaching practice.
• Collaborative Learning: Engage with fellow educators and share experiences in a supportive environment. This workshop encourages collaboration and best-practice sharing, fostering a community of practitioners dedicated to improving outcomes for neurodiverse learners.
• Expert Guidance: Led by an experienced facilitator with a deep understanding of neurodiversity, neurodivergence and inclusive education, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to positively impact your classroom.

Who Should Attend:

This workshop is ideal for teachers, teaching assistants, and educational practitioners in both SEND and mainstream schools who are committed to supporting neurodivergent learners. Whether you are new to the topic or looking to deepen your knowledge, this workshop offers valuable insights for everyone.

 

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and support neurodiverse children effectively.

The cost is set at £120 per person. The day will include a buffet lunch and networking session.

Places are limited, so secure your spot today.

 

Workshop Leader: Karen Ferguson – Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education

Karen began her career teaching science at a mainstream secondary school in 2000 before transitioning to the SEND environment, where she has worked with children and parents to help learners overcome disabilities and realise their potential. A Specialist Leader in Education for Autism, Karen has disseminated best practices and delivered SEND training, offering condition-specific training on ASC, ADHD, and dyslexia.

Karen holds two Master’s in Education and Level 2/3 qualifications in Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, and PDA. Driven by a commitment to quality education for all, Karen believes in advancing SEND

This informative short course has been designed for parents and carers who have a basic understanding of dyslexia and want to further develop their knowledge. During the session, delegates will further develop their understanding and knowledge of dyslexia and dyspraxia.

You will leave with reassuringly uncomplicated strategies and activities to stimulate and aid development. By the end of this workshop you will have:

• More knowledge and understanding about dyslexia and dyspraxia.
• Develop an understanding of the key interventions and strategies available.
• Worked through a selection of case studies to further develop your understanding of how to implement these strategies at home.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education. Karen started teaching science at a mainstream secondary school in 2000. She then moved into the SEND environment working with children and parents to help them overcome their disabilities and give them the skills to achieve their full potential. Karen was appointed as a Specialist Leader in Education for Autism and this allowed her to disseminate good practice and deliver SEND training. She offers various condition specific training, including ASC, ADHD and Dyslexia.

Karen has continued her personal professional development over the years: she has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications. She is currently working towards her Doctorate in Education.

Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

This online course has been designed for parents/carer with children with additional learning needs.

During the session, participants will develop their basic understanding and knowledge of Autism, including the various barriers and challenges children and young people may face. They will leave with strategies and techniques to aid learning and understanding at home.

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education.

Karen has considerable experience of working in SEND environments, she also has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications. Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

Places on this training is limited to ensure that participants leaning needs are meet. The session is likely to be popular so please book early to avoid disappointment.

 

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is linked to an extreme need to avoid everyday demands and opportunities. Some of the distinctive features of the profile are around high levels of anxiety, using social means to avoid, resisting the ordinary demands and excessive mood swings. The need for control in all areas is a prominent feature which can appear dominating. High levels of support are required along with specific strategies to engage.

This online session is for parents/carers wanting to learn more about Pathological Demand Avoidance

During the session, participants will develop their basic understanding and knowledge of PDA, including the various barriers and challenges students may face in the classroom. They will leave with a secure understanding of how to support and aid learning.

By the end of the session, delegates will have:

• An understanding of PDA
• An awareness of the barriers to learning and the impact of these difficulties
• An awareness of strategies and activities to aid learning from home

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education.

Karen has considerable experience of working in SEND environments, she also has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications.  Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

This two-hour online course has been designed for any staff working with students in the additional learning needs field, or parents/carers.

During the session, delegates will develop their basic understanding and knowledge of ADHD, including the various barriers and challenges students may face. They will leave with knowledge, strategies and techniques to aid learning.

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education.

Karen has considerable experience of working in SEND environments, she also has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications. Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

Makaton is a language programme, using signs and symbols alongside speech, which can be used with children and adults who need help with communication.

This training course provides a practical introduction to the Makaton language programme. Sessions will cover commonly asked questions, hints and tips for effective signing and symbol use, and how to start using Makaton in everyday situations at home or work. You will learn the signs and symbols from stages 1 – 4 and some of the additional stage of the Makaton core vocabulary. You will receive course manuals with copies of all signs and symbols taught.

This course is for parents, carers, or professionals who want to learn Makaton to support children’s language and communication development. No previous experience of Makaton is necessary.

The training is provided by licenced Makaton tutors who work in Sunderland & South Tyneside as part of the Speech & Language Therapy team. They have the expertise to guide you on your journey to better communication.

Join us and explore the benefits of Makaton to enhance your ability to communicate effectively with others. This training can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you care for or work with.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 4 sessions as follows:

• Thursday 23rd January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 30th January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 6th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 13th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm

 

Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 4 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.