The Aspire Pathway

“Aspirations realised, ambitions supported.”

The core curriculum offer in years eight, nine, ten and eleven, is better suited to those pupils who are able to manage transitions between classrooms, have a greater need for movement and are able to apply their skills for learning more independently. Pupils continue to access the KS3 and KS4 national curriculums through delivery from subject specialist teachers.

Intent:

  • Provide access to a broad academic curriculum, with high challenge and support
  • Equip pupils with qualifications (GCSE’s, Functional Skills & Vocational awards) aligned to future goals and aspirations
  • Prepare for further education, apprenticeships, or employment

Curriculum Features:

  • Delivered by subject specialists
  • Qualifications including GCSEs in English, maths, science, and optional subjects (e.g.PE,ICT, arts)
  • Larger groups and opportunity to build positive relationships with a range of adults

Common Curriculum Elements (All Pathways)

Regardless of the pathway, every pupil at Castle receives:

  • English and maths taught with an emphasis on fluency, confidence, and real-life application
  • PSHE and personal development, addressing themes like keeping safe, relationships, and wellbeing
  • Opportunities for enrichment (AQA Awards), outdoor learning, and cultural capital development including a range of trips, visits and residentials
  • Careers education and life skills embedded
  • Integrated therapeutic approaches including mentoring, counselling, and regulation strategies
  • Consistent focus on developing independence, resilience, and communication
  • Opportunity to study a range of GCSE and other recognised qualifications

Assessment & Progression

We use a combination of:

  • Baseline assessments
  • EHCP outcomes
  • Academic progress
  • Teacher led formative assessment
  • Pupil and family voice
  • To continuously review and adapt pupil pathways.

As pupils develop their skills, confidence, and regulation, they can transition through pathways, ensuring a dynamic and personalised curriculum experience that provides ambitious but achievable progression opportunities.