Saffron: Semi-Formal
The Saffron Pathway reflects the belief that learning happens best through hands-on, meaningful experiences. The pathway is inclusive by providing multiple ways for children to access literacy and numeracy, and ambitious in developing both academic and life skills.
The Saffron Pathway is for pupils with severe learning difficulties who learn best through hands-on, play-based experiences. Pupils on this pathway are ready for more structured learning while still benefiting from learning through doing.
Focus Areas
Early Academic Concepts
The pathway develops:
- Early literacy skills including phonics, early reading, mark-making and vocabulary development
- Early numeracy concepts including counting, number recognition, shapes, patterns and measures
- Understanding through repetition and practice in meaningful situations
- Skills that can be generalised and applied across different contexts
Communication and Social Skills
Pupils work on:
- Expressing themselves and understanding others
- Building awareness of relationships and friendships
- Learning to interact with other children and adults
- Understanding and following social routines
- Developing conversation skills
Independence and Life Skills
Pupils are supported to develop:
- Self-help skills like dressing, eating and personal hygiene
- Practical skills like shopping and preparing food
- Awareness of their own needs and how to communicate them
- Understanding of their surroundings and how to navigate them safely
- Ability to make choices and express preferences
Curriculum Structure
Thematic Learning
Learning is organised around engaging themes that:
- Connect different areas of learning in meaningful ways
- Provide real-life contexts for practising skills
- Allow for repetition and practice
- Are relevant and motivating for pupils
- Help pupils make connections between different experiences
Play-Based Learning
Learning through play includes:
- Structured play activities with clear learning goals
- Opportunities for exploration and discovery
- Creative and physical activities
- Social play to develop interaction skills
- Role-play to practise real-life situations
Preparation for Adulthood
Pupils develop skills for adult life through:
- Taking part in group routines and understanding expectations
- Role-playing everyday tasks like shopping or using public transport
- Handling real money and understanding its value
- Building awareness of feelings, relationships and appropriate behaviour
- Developing understanding of personal safety in different situations
- Learning about healthy lifestyles and making positive choices