Castle School A S P I R E Curriculum Vision
Adaptable Social Skills Problem-Solving Independence Respect Expression
At Castle School, we create an environment rooted in expert relational practice, combined with high expectations and tailored support to meet individual needs. This approach leads to strong academic achievement and social-emotional development, equipping students with skills that extend beyond their time at Castle School. As a result, our students are well-prepared for post-16 destinations and enjoy enhanced life opportunities.
Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4, all pupils follow a personalised curricular pathway designed to meet their individual needs and future aspirations. The focus is on acquiring specialist subject knowledge and working towards accredited outcomes that prepare them for the next steps in education, training, or employment. Students work towards Entry Level, Functional Skills, GCSE qualifications and additional qualifications. This academic programme is complemented by tailored Personal Development and Alternative Provision offer, supporting the broader development of each learner.
CEIAG activities and P16 destination are a key measure for Castle School, and we support students with securing a P16 destination. Every student has access to a level 6 trained Careers Advisor. Students are exposed to visiting local P16 destinations who we work very closely with to ensure every student access the right setting that meets the need of the individual. Throughout KS4 we ensure students are engaged in trips and experiences to help make informed decisions and expose them to the world of work and life beyond Castle School. We run a series of mock interviews via external stakeholders to ready students for the live experience at interview stage. Each student has a dedicated keyworker to support them through the application process. We have an excellent track record of securing destinations for Castle students.
Examination & Assessment Results
Given the complexity of SEMH educational needs and the diverse curriculum pathways we offer, individual attainment at Castle School goes far beyond what is reflected in the GIAS performance tables. We recognise that publicly available attainment data for specialist settings does not capture the full depth and quality of our provision, and that direct comparisons between such settings can be misleading. However, our commitment to both local and national initiatives underpin a curriculum that is broad, knowledge-based, and grounded in strong values. This approach supports ambitious outcomes for all pupils. The strength of our provision is evident in our sustained post-16 destinations data and the high-quality outcomes students achieve, relative to their individual starting points on entry to Castle School.
Castle KS4 Curriculum Pathway Summary
A S P I R E Curriculum Vision – Adaptable Social Skills Problem-Solving Independence Respect Expression
