Project Based Learning
Authentic Engaging Interactive Multi-Sensory
Integrated Therapies
Comprehensive Therapeutic Program
Qualified therapists are involved in all aspects of the student’s day.
Therapy needs inform and determine the ever-changing individualised provision for every student and this provision goes far beyond the therapy requirements set out in the student’s EHCP.
An excellent team of in-house therapists and teachers delivers a uniquely integrated and blended provision addressing the developmental levels of abilities, the cognitive functions, the specific barriers to learning, and the social challenges of each child.
In the London school we have 4 full time speech and language therapists and 3 full time occupational therapists providing therapy for 40 students. That same ratio will be maintained in The Willow School with the heads of therapy in London overseeing the overall therapy provision.
Dynamic
Sensory
Learning
In nature, as in no other environment, we have witnessed the greatest sustained engagement and curiosity by our students. Learning leads to more learning when a child explores the natural world. The senses are awakened and yet, at the same time a child thinks more outside himself. This is of huge benefit to a withdrawn special needs child, who does not see himself as a successful part of the bigger world. Project based teaching is dynamic and authentic, giving the teacher broad opportunities to differentiate in a stimulating child-led curricula.
Progress Tracking
In our project based learning environment, each student’s progress in understanding, engagement, behaviour and performance is assessed within the specific goals for his or her cognitive, developmental and therapeutic needs.
Key performances and evidence of meaningful learning related to the student’s therapy needs and the curricula are recorded in the student’s Digital Portfolio, which is monitored by the Assessment and Therapy Team. The Portfolio also includes weekly tracking in RAG rated evaluations of the core areas of education and wellbeing.
Teacher’s assistants and learning support assistants are trained in observing, assessing and recording individual learning challenges during each activity within the projects. This information is incorporated in the tracking of each student’s ability to understand and complete tasks.
The student’s attention, participation, engagement, and ability to recall and reflect is also assessed and recorded in each lesson.
Every student is formally tested by the occupational therapists and the speech and language therapists, using a variety of tools, to create his or her Therapy Map. The established therapy goals are fully integrated in the teaching.