Phoenix Primary and Secondary School

Phoenix School, a well-established special school, which offers a unique service to the children of Tower Hamlets. We offer a rich and stimulating curriculum, which is individually tailored reflecting good practice in an environment that supports the pupils’ learning. The school offers a range of sensory and therapeutic interventions and a multidisciplinary approach to pupil needs. The school has developed a holistic approach working in partnership other agencies, parents and families to have their needs met from one centre. There is a strong focus on maintaining good relationships between home and school. We encourage respect for others, good manners and tolerance.

We believe it is important for pupils to achieve their full potential and importance is placed upon achievement at all levels. Pupil achievement is celebrated and positive rewards are used to promote and encourage good behaviour and learning. There is a caring yet purposeful atmosphere within the school and there is a balance of focus between welfare and achievement for all.

Learning in EY is structured to be active and experiential where children enjoy a sensory approach to the curriculum in order to engage in their learning. They are given every opportunity to achieve at their level of learning. The curriculum provides enriching and generalising experiences in order that all children have the opportunity to practice and consolidate skills in order for them to learn successfully.

Teachers plan a variety of different trips outside school, including walks in the local area, visits to the shops, farm, zoo and travel on public transport. Trips form a key part of the pupils learning which supports understanding. Religious Education incorporates the Tower Hamlets agreed syllabus for Religious Education (2012-2017) and visits have taken place at the local mosque and St Pauls cathedral. We are currently in the process of integrating Religious studies into the humanities subjects and we have a focus on value driven approaches to RE with a focus on SMSC.

Across the primary department visits to the local environment, shops and museums are encouraged to support curriculum areas. Key Stage 2 pupils have the opportunity to go swimming within the year as well as weekly yoga and horticulture sessions.

The aim of the curriculum in Key Stage 4 is to help students build on their learning from Key Stage 3 and further develop academically, personally and socially, in preparation for Key Stage 5 and adult life. We do this through a broad curriculum which provides a rich programme within school and the local community. It aims to develop our students’ social, work, and community-based skills. The curriculum also provides a medium for students to generalise their skills from the classroom into the work place and community. The goal is for them to become active and as independent as possible within their local community and home life; while becoming responsible citizens.

Students are encouraged to apply their skills to real-life everyday situations thus enabling them to access their community as fully as possible; while making sure they are safe, happy and confident in meeting life’s challenges. The curriculum is personalised with a focus on building on each individual’s strengths and interests. It is designed to develop their skills, attitudes and confidence that will support progression to their chosen destination. Achievements are recognised and valued through termly assessments and nationally recognised qualifications.

We use Person Centred Planning to ensure all students & family contribute to the development of an Educational Health and Care Plan (EHCP). These are reviewed annually and are referred to and informed by the Person Centred Annual Review. We work with the Career Service, Community Learning Disability Team (CLDS), local colleges and Social Care providers to plan for successful student transition at post 19.