At The Garden School, we offer relevant and tailored opportunities across various subjects, activities, and community settings to help students develop and apply their skills in functional, real-world contexts. The goal is to enhance the abilities needed for the next steps in each young person’s personal journey toward adulthood, using a holistic approach that fosters independence. This includes a strong focus on personal and emotional development in meaningful social settings, supported by work-related learning and the pursuit of relevant certifications and accreditations.

Upon entering our provision, each student’s learning pathway is developed based on the outcomes outlined in their EHCP and their learning progress from Key Stage 3. Their personalised programme is further refined according to their strengths, interests, and aspirations, with guidance from a dedicated careers lead. This individualised approach ensures that learning is purposeful and aligned with the student's future goals.

Specialist support—including speech and language therapy, behaviour support, mental health services, and sensory circuits—is seamlessly integrated into daily activities. These supports are designed to help students manage challenges and build key skills. Throughout their learning journey, students are provided with regular opportunities to enhance their communication abilities and make informed, relevant personal choices and decisions.

The school’s approach ensures that students are prepared not only academically but also socially and emotionally, ready to thrive in the next phase of their lives with confidence and independence.

The Post-16 curriculum is designed to provide relevant, tailored opportunities across different subjects, activities, and community settings to continue developing and functionally applying skills and knowledge. The aim is to enhance the abilities needed to prepare each young person for the next steps in their personal journey and transition into adulthood. With a holistic approach that promotes independence, the curriculum emphasises personal and emotional development in meaningful, social contexts. This is supported by the choice of relevant certifications, accreditations, and work-related learning.

Upon entry into the provision, each student’s learning pathway is based on the outcomes identified in their EHCP and student learning plan. From there, a personalized program is further developed according to the student's strengths, interests, and aspirations. The school integrates specialist support—such as speech and language therapy, behaviour support, and mental health services—into daily activities to meet individual needs. This support ensures students have regular opportunities to develop communication skills and make personal choices and decisions relevant to their lives.

The Post-16 curriculum is structured around the four Preparing for Adulthood themes: Independent Living, Community Inclusion, Health, and Employment. These themes are explored through activities that promote independence, community engagement, and overall well-being, while providing opportunities for work experience and life skills development. This approach ensures students are equipped to make informed choices and transition successfully into adulthood, whether that means continuing education, finding supported employment, or pursuing independent living

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