Curriculum

The Restart provision is a structured, short-term assessment programme accessed by all pupils upon entry to Ash Grove School - typically following a permanent exclusion or through an EHCP consultation. Its core purpose is to re-engage pupils with learning and identify the most appropriate long-term pathway, which may include a return to mainstream education where suitable.

The programme runs for approximately three weeks, though this may be extended for pupils awaiting reintegration into mainstream settings. During this time, pupils participate in small group sessions and a series of assessments designed to build a holistic understanding of their needs. These include:

• CAT4 Assessment
• PATH Planning
• Entry Passport
• Safeguarding Passport
• Pupil One Page Profile

The programme begins with an initial meeting between the pupil, their family and the Restart Lead, followed by targeted sessions led by the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) and the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). The learning environment is adapted from the outset to support individual needs and promote engagement.

Once assessments are complete, pupils are placed into the most suitable long-term pathway—Engage, Employ or Re-Engage. Each pupil’s provision is regularly reviewed and transitions between pathways are made where appropriate to ensure evolving needs are met and progress continues.

The Employ Pathway at Ash Grove is designed for pupils who may not thrive in traditional academic environments, but demonstrate a strong aptitude for practical, hands-on learning. These learners often face barriers to consistent engagement and this pathway provides a dynamic, vocationally-focused curriculum aimed at reigniting motivation and building a sense of purpose.

Through immersive, trade-based experiences, students develop valuable skills that boost confidence, independence and readiness for the world beyond school. The school day is carefully structured to help pupils build stamina, maintain focus and experience success in a supportive setting.

Functional English and maths are embedded throughout the curriculum and tailored to each vocational area, ensuring students gain the essential skills needed to progress into further training, employment or apprenticeships.

Vocational Options

Pupils on the Employ Pathway have access to a range of vocational subjects, including:

• Construction
• Hospitality
• Sport and leisure
• Hair and beauty

These options are delivered through engaging, real-world experiences that reflect industry standards and expectations, helping students explore career pathways and develop transferable skills.

The Engage Pathway at Ash Grove supports pupils who are beginning to show readiness for learning within a structured educational environment. Many of these learners have diagnosed or unidentified learning needs that can make sustained engagement challenging.

To meet these needs, learning is delivered in short, stimulating segments that focus on building attention, emotional regulation and positive social interaction. The learning environment is carefully adapted to reduce the stress often associated with traditional classroom settings, helping pupils feel safe and supported.

Our Engage curriculum is highly personalised and integrates targeted support throughout the school day. This approach ensures that each pupil can develop the foundational skills needed to move forward confidently into further education, training, employment or apprenticeships.

Core and lifelong learning

As part of the Engage Pathway, students focus on developing core skills in English and maths, essential for future success. Alongside these, they engage in lifelong learning opportunities through subjects such as cooking and creative arts, delivered using a thematic approach that makes learning meaningful and relevant.

This integrated model helps students build practical skills, express themselves creatively and develop independence - preparing them for life beyond the classroom.

The Re-Engage Pathway at Ash Grove is designed to reintroduce pupils to learning following extended periods of disengagement from formal or alternative education. Pupils accessing this pathway typically have attendance rates below 20% or face complex barriers that affect their ability to engage and sustain focus in a learning environment. These challenges may include difficulties with emotional regulation, building relationships or coping with previous negative educational experiences.

To meet these needs, the pathway offers a highly personalised timetable, tailored to each pupil’s unique circumstances. A mentoring-led approach, delivered by skilled and experienced staff, helps pupils rebuild trust, confidence and a sense of belonging within the learning environment. Classrooms and routines are carefully adapted to reduce anxiety and create a safe, supportive space.

Curriculum Focus

The Re-Engage curriculum is designed to be flexible, responsive and meaningful. Pupils engage with a range of subject areas that support both academic progress and personal development, including:

• English
• Maths
• Home cooking skills
• Creative subjects
• PSHRE (Personal, Social, Health and Relationships Education)
• Therapeutic interventions

These subjects are delivered to allow pupils to explore learning in a way that connects with their interests and experiences. Functional skills are embedded throughout, ensuring students gain the tools they need to move forward in education.