Hedgehogs
Welcome to Hedgehogs Class! We are a mixed-age group of wonderful learners, and we follow an informal pathway of learning. This pathway supports children with significant learning needs through sensory exploration, play-based activities and lots of fun, hands-on experiences.
Our Team
Class Teacher: Megan
Support Staff: Mel R, Mel A, Sandra, Mike and Beki
We work together as a team to ensure every child receives the support and encouragement they need throughout the school day.
One of our main priorities in Hedgehogs Class this year is supporting our new pupils as they settle into both our classroom and Stanley School, including children who have joined us from other classes and from external settings.
We are focusing on building strong, trusting relationships and creating a warm sense of belonging, while continuing to develop each child's early communication skills. We are also prioritising emotional regulation through calm, consistent routines and personalised sensory strategies. Encouraging our children to understand and acknowledge their emotions, and ways to support their own regulation.
We aim to encourage growing independence and curiosity in our children through small, meaningful steps and increasing engagement through motivating, hands-on learning experiences.
Our classroom is a calm, nurturing space that focusses on consistency and structure for our children, where we celebrate every small step of progress.
Some of our favourite activities in Hedgehogs Class include Jabadao, Bucket Therapy, sensory massage, sensory stories, cookery sessions and anything creative – especially painting, which is always a firm favourite with all of our children. These activities give our pupils the chance to move, explore, experiment and express themselves in ways that feel exciting and meaningful to them.
Our children learn best through hands-on, sensory experiences that encourage curiosity and allow them to engage at their own pace. Whether they are getting messy with paint, exploring movement through Jabadao or enjoying the smells and textures of cookery, we make sure every activity is motivating, interactive and tailored to their needs. A free-flow approach to our activities helps our pupils stay engaged, curious, and enjoy their learning throughout the week.
This year in Hedgehogs Class we will explore a range of exciting topics:
- All About Me and My School – building confidence, recognising familiar people and places, and settling into class routines
- Winter Wonderland Celebrations – sensory exploration of winter themes, seasonal changes/weather and enjoying seasonal celebrations
- Transport – exploring different types of transport, making choices, and engaging in cause-and-effect play
- Circus – developing confidence with physical skills, exploring colour and sound, expressive movement and turn-taking
- Mini Beasts – sensory discovery, observing small creatures, exploring our environment and encouraging curiosity through hands-on exploration
- Tropical Jungle – imaginative sensory play, exploring colour and sound, and supporting engagement through immersive environments
Across all topics, our priority remains developing communication, sensory engagement, independence and emotional regulation in meaningful, enjoyable ways.
We value working closely with our families in Hedgehogs Class, and we believe that strong relationships between home and school make a big difference to our children's progress. We keep in regular contact through ClassDojo, so parents can stay updated on their child's routines, achievements and daily learning experiences.
Parents can support children at home by continuing simple communication activities utilising Widgit symbols, enjoying sensory play together and following familiar, consistent routines. We are always here to share ideas, offer support and work together to help each child feel confident, secure and ready to learn.