Elm 2026 - 2027
Mr Neil Gregson
Welcome to Elm Class
We are a mixed Key Stage 4 and 5 class following the Pathway 3b curriculum. Our teacher is Neil and we are supported by our class team Dale, Jan, Shamyana and Ben.
Elm Class follows a personalised curriculum with a strong focus on functional communication, independence, sensory and physical development and preparing us for adulthood. Alongside our Pathway 3b curriculum, we work towards accreditation through ASDAN Personal Progress, with learning and progress recognised through the ASDAN Achievement Continuum.
In English, we focus on developing our functional communication and understanding of language. We use strategies such as PECS, Makaton, sensory stories, Attention Autism, theme boards and practical activities to support us to engage, make choices, make requests and increasingly comment on the world around us. Each half term we are introduced to key functional vocabulary linked to our class theme and sensory story.
In Maths, we develop our functional mathematical skills through practical and meaningful activities. These include cooking, sorting and matching, counting, shape and colour activities, using money, shopping and learning in the community. We use real objects, visuals, PECS, technology and sensory resources to help us generalise our mathematical skills in different situations.
Throughout the year we follow different themes which give us opportunities to experience learning across English, Maths, creative activities, technology, independence, the community and preparation for adulthood.
Our themes this year are:
Autumn 1 – Around the World
Autumn 2 – Art Attack!
Spring 1 – Time Travellers
Spring 2 – Work and Jobs
Summer 1 – In the Garden
Summer 2 – Moving On
Through ASDAN Personal Progress, we are developing skills across a range of areas including engaging with technology, work experience and taking part in new creative activities. We are supported to progress from showing interest and supported participation towards becoming increasingly actively involved and independent.
We develop our independence and preparation for adulthood throughout every school day. This includes completing classroom jobs, following familiar routines, organising our belongings, preparing food and drinks, cooking, shopping, accessing the community and developing our personal care and self-help skills. Elm Class also takes part in practical enterprise activities such as running our tuck shop, purchasing stock and preparing items for cooking sessions.
Our work-related learning begins with simple, structured jobs within our classroom. We are learning to select a job, complete it and recognise when the job is finished. As the year progresses, we will extend these opportunities into the wider college environment.
In engaging with technology, we explore and interact with a range of familiar technology. Across the year we will develop our understanding of how technology can be used for different purposes, including communication, learning, leisure and everyday life. This will include using iPads, interactive technology and familiar household and kitchen appliances.
For our Physical and Sensory Development, we take part in regular PE and physical activities alongside individualised sensory programmes. Opportunities can include sensory circuits, walks, dance massage, movement sessions and access to sensory spaces and equipment. These activities support us to recognise our sensory needs, develop physical skills and practise strategies which help us to regulate and become ready to learn.