At North Herts ESC, we offer an ambitious Key Stage 4 Curriculum to address social disadvantages by giving students knowledge and skills to take advantage of opportunities, responsibilities and experiences so that they can change their world. Our curriculum is based around our Centres’ values; tolerance, teamwork, challenge, high aspirations, high aspirations and accountability. The intent is, that all learners follow a personalised curriculum which is rooted in high aspirations. Students leave us with enhanced life chances and are provided with as many life experiences as we can provide, so that they can succeed in life. We bridge gaps in learning and each student follows a curriculum that enables permanent learning. Academic and vocational subjects are offered at GCSE, City and Guilds and Cambridge National Qualifications and BTEC. The highest priority is placed on literacy. We know that a strong foundation in literacy is the building block for future success in learning.
An inherent part of our curriculum is preparing students for the world of work. In KS4, students participate in a Work Experience placement once a week. These placements form part of the KS4 curriculum and equips students with the necessary skills, contacts and expectations to progress successfully to their next destination. Coupled with a robust Career, Information and Guidance programme, students in KS4 can make informed choices about their next steps and destinations. Our students feel empowered to make those decisions by Year 1. 1
Our personal development curriculum offers PHSCE, Social Development, Mentoring, Emotional Wellbeing and Resilience and Career Advice and Guidance through group work, workshops and individual sessions. The intention is to equip students with knowledge and cultural capital they need to succeed. We encourage a curiosity about life and provide them with the belief that they can be successful in life. The curriculum at NHESC operates beyond the classroom and school trips are an integral part of centre life. Weekly mentoring sessions for all students enable discussions around student focused subjects for example work concerns, peer problems, making the right choices and life opportunities. Consistency of mentors is key to the success of this programme and students meet with the same mentor every week in the same room and at the same time.
Underpinning our curriculum is strong partnership working with our parents, carers local community and external providers