Independence

What is our curriculum intent?

The independence curriculum is offered to students in the Simmonds pathway. The intent of independence lessons is to enable students to learn valuable independence skills, in preparation for transition from Valence to future life. This is achieved through a process of knowledge sharing and discussion, social role-plays, and practical tasks. Each of these learning activities enable students to develop knowledge or practical-based independence skills. We want to improve student’s resilience and help them to understand some of the challenges they may face in future life. Students are involved in frank and constructive discussions about the realities of life and modern Britain. Students follow a bespoke AQA Unit Award Scheme to provide structure to their learning and provide them with a tangible achievement upon finishing the course. Collaboration with the residential team, teachers, therapy team, home, and incorporating EHCP targets create a multifaceted, individualised and meaningful learning journey for each student.

Do our students have access to learning opportunities outside the classroom?

The independence curriculum plans for three trips a year (one per big term). These include a budgeting/finance-based trip to Bluewater or local town, a food shop to a local supermarket, and a travel-based trip (normally a train journey from Sevenoaks to Tonbridge). Other trips have included an accessibility trip to a gym at Chailey heritage centre. Independence lessons also venture outside of the classroom in other ways. For example, spare spaces in the residential area are used to practice independent household jobs. Various roleplays take students outside in the summer and to other areas of the school in the winter. Students take part in work experience in departments such as the kitchen, maintenance, and primary. The school site is utilised as much as possible to provide students with an interesting, varied, and challenging learning experience. Finally, outside speakers, including Valence alumni are used to build a picture of ‘life after Valence’ and help students explore their place in society.