Tier 1
Foundations Literacy / Numeracy
For learners with significant gaps. Secures phonics, decoding, spelling, number and calculation through highly structured, low-threat teaching.
Building brighter futures
Our KS3 curriculum combines English & Literacy, Maths & Numeracy, Science and PSHE to deliver an academic core, plus key statutory RSE content and personal development. We do not assume ability or knowledge based on a young person's age. Our three-tier model meets learners where they are academically, builds stronger foundations and supports continuity with their home school or agreed next setting.
Three-Tier Curriculum Model
Following an initial assessment of reading, writing, vocabulary, spelling, fluency, spoken language, number, calculation and reasoning, each learner is placed on a personalised pathway.
Tier 2
Developing Literacy & English / Numeracy & Mathematics
Builds fluency, vocabulary, written expression, reasoning and problem-solving with carefully scaffolded challenge.
Tier 3
KS3 English & Maths and KS4 Readiness
Curriculum-aligned teaching that prepares learners for GCSE and Functional Skills, supports continuity with the home school and provides a clear route into accredited qualifications.
How the pathways work in practiceMovement between pathways, group size and teaching approach
Learners can move between pathways as they progress. Teaching is delivered in small groups by qualified specialists and aligned with home-school expectations, with practical application and carefully scaffolded challenge so young people can use English and Maths with greater independence, confidence and purpose.
Download our KS3 curriculum maps
Full curriculum documents for each subject area, showing pathway placement, themes, texts and the one-year rolling sequence.
English & Literacy
Three pathways, texts studied, writing completed and the one-year rolling sequence.
Download the English & Literacy curriculum map
Maths & Numeracy
Curriculum intent, design principles, initial assessment and the three pathways at a glance.
Download the Maths & Numeracy curriculum mapPersonal Development Curriculum
Personal development is central to re-engagement, confidence and preparation for adulthood. Our KS3 Personal Development curriculum is ambitious, practical and responsive, with explicit teaching of statutory RSHE content, independence and life skills.
Self-identity and emotional wellbeing
Healthy relationships and RSE
Physical health and healthy lifestyles
Safety in the real and online world
Independence and life skills
Citizenship and social responsibility
Futures and employability
Resilience and enrichment
How Personal Development is deliveredWeekly sessions and optional co-curricular activity
Learners receive timetabled personal development sessions each week, including discussion, reflection and practical application. A co-curricular element, such as physical activity or practical catering sessions with approved delivery partners, can be agreed at commissioning and recorded in the individual placement plan, with full risk assessment and consent in place before anything begins.
Discuss a placement with the Programme Lead team
Tell us about the learner and we will advise on suitability, delivery options, availability and what a placement would include before anything is agreed.