VISTA – A Curriculum Approach for Young and ASD Children
Vision
Goal Setting
The curriculum starts with clear, achievable goals tailored to each child’s abilities and interests. Visual supports like charts, maps, and picture schedules enhance understanding and communication, making learning accessible for all. By setting these personalised goals, each child is helped to navigate their educational journey with confidence.
Holistic Development
Focus is placed on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, nurturing the whole child. This approach is designed to foster well-rounded growth and development.
Fundamental British Values
The curriculum promotes the Fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. These values are integrated into the curriculum to prepare children for life in modern Britain.
Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural Development (SMSC)
Encouraging spiritual growth, moral understanding, social development, and cultural awareness is central to the curriculum. Reflection, wonder, exploration of personal beliefs, a sense of right and wrong, social skills, and appreciation of cultural diversity are promoted.
Inclusive
Social Integration
Group activities promote interaction with peers. Collaborative learning and peer mentoring are integral parts of this approach, ensuring every child feels included and valued. Through social integration, children learn to build meaningful relationships and develop essential social skills.
Empathy and Respect
Classroom culture is built on empathy, respect, and understanding, celebrating diversity and inclusion. Diverse perspectives and experiences are embraced, enriching the learning community.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is used to encourage desired behaviours, creating a supportive and motivating atmosphere. Open and meaningful communication between teachers, students, and families is a cornerstone of this approach, with strong relationships being key to effective learning.
Cultural Awareness
Exploring different cultures and traditions enriches students’ understanding of the world. Studying cultural artefacts and their historical significance deepens appreciation of human history.
Sensory
Sensory-Friendly Environment
Recognising the importance of sensory experiences, learning spaces are created to minimise sensory overload. Quiet areas and sensory tools are available to help children feel comfortable and focused.
Sensory Activities
The curriculum integrates sensory-based activities such as tactile play and movement breaks, ensuring a balanced and engaging learning experience. These activities are crucial for sensory regulation and help children remain calm and attentive.
Health and Nutrition
Healthy habits and nutrition are promoted through integrated activities and lessons, supporting overall well-being. Physical health is closely linked to academic success.
Teaching
Personalised Instruction
Teaching methods are tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs, ensuring that every child can thrive. This personalised approach allows meeting each child where they are and helping them progress at their own pace.
Multi-Modal Learning
By using a combination of visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic teaching techniques, children are engaged in ways that resonate with their individual learning preferences. This multi-modal approach makes learning dynamic and interactive.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are encouraged, fostering deeper understanding. Teaching empathy and understanding through stories and social narratives is central to the curriculum.
Exploration and Curiosity
Curiosity and exploration are encouraged through hands-on learning experiences. Opportunities for discovery and experiential learning are provided, making learning an adventure.
Innovative Practices
Incorporating innovative teaching practices and new technologies keeps the curriculum dynamic and forward-thinking. Adaptability and openness to new experiences are fostered, preparing children for a rapidly changing world.
Adaptive
Flexible Curriculum
The curriculum is flexible and adaptable, evolving to meet the changing needs of each child. Methods are continuously assessed and adjusted to ensure every child is supported effectively.
Personalised Learning Plans
The delivery of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) with specific strategies and accommodations supports each child’s unique learning journey. These plans are central to the approach, ensuring that all children receive the tailored support they need.
Assessment and Feedback
Regular assessments and feedback help understand each child’s current level and needs. This continuous assessment ensures that timely adjustments can be made to their learning plans.
Adaptive Pathways
Adaptive pathways are provided, allowing children to move forward, revisit concepts, or explore new areas based on their individual progress. This flexibility ensures that no child is left behind and each one can advance confidently.
Local Learning Opportunities
Local learning opportunities are integrated into the curriculum, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. This includes visits to local sites, community projects, and collaborations with local organisations.
Home Activities
Activities to do with parents and carers at home are suggested to support learning in school. These home activities are designed to reinforce classroom lessons, promote family engagement, and provide continuity in learning.