Lessons are taught in a multi-sensory manner using Attention Autism principles alongside a whole communication approach. We revisit concepts delivered at a pace suited to each individual. Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy input are integral to the delivery of all lessons. Pupils are supported by a team of familiar adults to provide consistency as well as to build positive relationships and trust.
Each class group has an attached Speech and Language Therapist (SLT), and support from the Phase based Occupational Therapist (OT). The therapists work collaboratively with teaching staff, providing therapy, advice and assistance to pupils on a needs-led basis and making sure all learning is supported through the use of appropriate SLT and OT strategies. This ensures pupils can both access the content of lessons and demonstrate their learning through participation in class. It also supports their generalisation of knowledge and skills across the school context.
A typical day at Blossom House Primary School looks like this:
Our Y2-Y6 pupils have access to:
- A Primary school assembly where we are able to celebrate the pupils' achievements, develop a sense of belonging to our Primary phase, learn about different cultural festivals and explore current social and moral issues.
- Positive reinforcement is used to support the pupils' behaviour. In the Primary school the use of verbal praise and encouragement, star or tally charts, stickers and wellbeing/regulatory visits to the rabbits, fish or garden are consistently used. The pupils' emotional and sensory regulation are supported throughout the school day.
- Educational visits and trips to facilitate and support learning and further the pupils’ ability to access the curriculum. In the past we have had visits from farms, animal encounters, the Air Ambulance, and authors. Towards the end of Year 6, pupils are able to go on a two-night residential trip giving them the opportunity to develop their friendships, life and independence skills.
- Opportunities for families to come into the school to share in our learning experiences. We have hosted Primary family picnics and enjoyed when family members are able to come in and read to the pupils.
- Transitions and changes are supported across the school day. At the end of the academic year pupils are prepared for the next steps of their school journey. Year 6 receive increased therapeutic support for their transition into Key stage 3.
- Access to a library, which provides a range of reading stimuli to support all pupils to be able to engage and make progress with developing a love for reading.
- Lessons in our Sports Hall at Motspur Park, where pupils are taught by specialist sports coaches and are encouraged to work on a range of skills and sports. Sports days are run by the PE department, which encourage the pupils to develop their movement and team work skills as well as to develop a camaraderie between the pupils and a sense of achievement and pride they can share with each other and their families.
- Carefully considered bespoke targets, which inform pupils' end of Key Stage targets.
- Opportunities to participate in performances where all pupils can be involved in the Winter and Summer plays. We enjoy songs and dance, which make these shows really special. Every other year, we host a “Blossom’s Got Talent” for all pupils to show off their unique talents.
- A focus on self-awareness and self-esteem where pupils are supported to recognise their strengths and value their achievements as a way of increasing their confidence. The pupils are supported emotionally by their trusted adults and specifically by the onsite Speech and Language Therapists.
- Our dedicated Arts Therapies team. The team, which includes Music Therapists, Dramatherapists, Art Psychotherapists and an Integrative Counsellor, offer sessions to pupils on a referral basis.
