Overview and Provision 

Pupils continue their journey into Upper School by transitioning into either Hills or Rivers at the end of Year 8. Within Rivers Phase, we provide a nurturing yet ambitious environment where every young person feels safe, supported, and motivated to achieve their potential. Our focus is on deepening academic understanding, extending communication and thinking skills, and nurturing personal growth through a carefully balanced curriculum. 

Through personalised teaching, targeted interventions, and rich, real-world learning experiences, pupils are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop the independence, resilience, and confidence needed for post-16 education and adult life. Strong pastoral care and consistent guidance ensure that each learner is challenged appropriately and supported to achieve both academically and personally. 

Approaches to Learning  

We use a multi-sensory approach to make learning accessible, engaging, and meaningful for every pupil. Lessons incorporate visual, auditory, tactile, and practical elements, ensuring that pupils can access the curriculum, build confidence, and develop understanding at their own pace. 

Our teaching strategies are carefully designed to balance scaffolded support with opportunities for challenge, enabling pupils to stretch their skills and achieve their full academic potential. Techniques such as task boards, aided language displays, and visual stimuli provide structured guidance and support communication, helping pupils articulate ideas, follow instructions, and engage independently with learning tasks. 

We also integrate real-life contexts, hands-on experiences, and problem-solving activities to reinforce learning and develop critical thinking. By combining personalised teaching with consistent feedback and encouragement, we foster resilience, self-reflection, and a love of learning. Our approach ensures that all pupils, regardless of their starting point, are supported to excel academically, develop independence, and thrive socially and emotionally. 

Pathways and Learning Experiences 

From Year 9 onwards, pupils in the Rivers Phase follow a range of Pathways designed to reflect their individual strengths, interests, and learning needs. These include academic, vocational, and life skills routes, allowing each pupil to progress at the pace and direction best suited to them, while being consistently challenged to reach their full potential. 

Our curriculum is deliberately broad and ambitious. Pupils have the opportunity to study creative and practical subjects such as Performing Arts, Construction, Motor Vehicle Studies, and Hair and Beauty, all designed to develop both practical skills and academic understanding in preparation for college, apprenticeships, or future employment. 

We ensure pupils are stretched and challenged through differentiated teaching, targeted support, and enrichment opportunities that encourage independent thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. Lessons are structured to promote curiosity and confidence in tackling new concepts. 

Learning extends beyond the classroom through community-based experiences, enterprise activities, and enrichment programs, allowing pupils to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, develop teamwork, and gain essential life skills. Through this combination of personalised pathways and high expectations, Rivers Phase pupils are equipped to thrive academically, socially, and personally, ready to take the next steps toward further education and adult life. 

Pastoral Care and Wellbeing 

Every pupil benefits from consistent support through their dedicated class team, who provide daily structure, encouragement, and emotional care. The team works closely with families and therapists to ensure that wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Through trusted relationships and positive routines, students develop the confidence and resilience needed to thrive. 

Towards Independence 

Within the Rivers Phase, we place strong emphasis on supporting pupils to become confident, independent learners who are ready to succeed in post-16 education and beyond. Through a combination of academic challenges, life skills lessons, enrichment activities, and community-based experiences, pupils develop the resilience, self-awareness, and practical skills required to navigate increasingly complex learning and real-world situations. 

Pupils are encouraged to take an active role in shaping their school environment through the School Council, while leadership opportunities such as Pupil Buddies and Reading Leaders further develop responsibility, teamwork, and mentoring skills. These experiences not only foster a sense of belonging but also cultivate communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities essential for adulthood. 

The Rivers Phase provides a structured yet ambitious bridge from Upper School to post-16 education, offering a supportive environment where pupils can stretch their academic potential, take measured risks in learning, and grow in independence and self-confidence. This phase is a time of exploration, achievement, and preparation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.