RISE Pathway

The RISE Pathway at Castle School helps pupils reconnect with education at a pace that reflects their individual needs. Through trusting relationships, personalised learning and reasonable adjustments, we work to remove barriers to attendance, engagement and achievement.

RISE supports pupils who find it difficult to access mainstream education or standard alternative provision because of complex social, emotional or mental health needs, illness or other challenging circumstances. Pupils may join at any point during the academic year, often with gaps in their learning or disrupted experiences of education. Many have special educational needs and/or disabilities, and some have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or have received inpatient hospital treatment.

Delivered on the school site or through satellite centres across Derby, RISE provides a calm, structured and closely supervised environment with very small teaching groups. Alongside core lessons in English, maths, science and RSHE, pupils receive tailored support, which may include:

  • Personal development, enrichment, outdoor learning, life skills and accredited vocational opportunities.
  • Flexible timetables and adjustments to learning spaces or session times, including community-based learning where appropriate.
  • Virtual learning or mentoring to help pupils reconnect with education.
  • Therapeutic support, individual mentoring and/or Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) intervention.
  • Predictable routines and personalised support to develop emotional regulation, positive relationships and resilience.

Our approach combines strong relationships and high levels of support with clear expectations, helping pupils build confidence in themselves and their learning.

Regular communication with parents and carers, key-worker support and family support worker outreach help create a shared approach. Staff work closely with external professionals and review each pupil’s learning, wellbeing and support needs regularly.

Our aim is to increase attendance, strengthen engagement and support a sustainable return to full-time education over time. As pupils become ready, RISE helps them progress towards Castle School’s Horizon and Aspire pathways.