Challenger

Challenger is one of the five KS4/KS5 classes within the Academy. At present there are 10 male and 1 female members of the group, aged between fourteen and eighteen years.

The students in Challenger are working within the following ranges:

English: WJEC entry level additional English, Functional skills English Levels 1&2 & AQA English language GCSE

Maths: WJEC Entry level Pathways & GCSE Edexcel Pearson

Science: AQA Entry Level Single Science & AQA Single Science Chemistry GCSE

All students in Challenger are mobile and all can communicate well. Most have a diagnosis of Autism or ADHD and need time and space to express their thoughts. They are good communicators and can interest peers and adults with conversations. Most have a developed sense of humour and are able to regulate their emotions, some with and some without support.

There are two members of staff in Challenger: Mr Tom Fewtrell (Tutor), and Mrs Karen Hicklin (Teaching Assistant).

The students use all classrooms well and appropriately. They make use of Academy facilities and know how to behave appropriately in different situations. Pupils in Challenger have Personal Social Development (PSD) and Independence lessons that teach the pupils in the group how to stay safe both in school and in the community. All the students follow accredited courses in English, Maths, Science, Computing and PSD and PE. In addition to this they work on a Preparing for Adulthood curriculum, which continues to develop skills, knowledge and understanding within Employment, Community, Independence and Health.

In Challenger, we try to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere in tutor time. Students are encouraged to read age-appropriate material and have meaningful and light-hearted interactions with the staff and peers. Challenger class also cover important topics including RSE and humanities. Everyone is encouraged to join in class discussions and often students will work in small groups and feedback any issues arising. There is time for more in-depth one-to-one conversations if there are any obvious issues for individual students. We value the whole student and encourage them to express whatever is either making them feel upbeat or downcast. In Challenger we spend a lot of time trying to prepare them for their future lives. We look at independence skills, good communication skills, appropriate ICT skills and developing lasting interests.

We work closely with professionals involved with students in Challenger, and this currently includes working with speech and language therapists and CAMHS. Communication between home and the Academy is especially important. Students’ planners are checked each morning and a note written from the Academy if appropriate. A phone call or email is always welcome – it is good to get to know how the students are getting on away from the Academy to see if any support can be offered or advice given back.

Students in Challenger are offered careers advice and are well prepared for transitioning from the Academy.