Our Sensory Pathway provides a highly personalised and nurturing curriculum for pupils with the most complex needs. Every aspect of learning is tailored to each student’s individual profile, ensuring they are supported in the way that works best for them. Pupils learn through short, meaningful and engaging sessions, complemented by regular physical development, sensory processing and communication activities. High levels of adult support allow each learner to work at their own pace, in a familiar and responsive environment that prioritises comfort, trust and consistency.

Communication is at the heart of the Sensory Pathway. Pupils are encouraged to use their preferred method of communication—whether vocalisations, gestures, signs or another AAC—throughout their day. Staff use a multi‑sensory, child‑led approach, ensuring learning is fun, relevant and accessible for every pupil.

To understand how pupils engage with new skills and experiences, staff use the Engagement Model, which explores five key areas of learning: Exploration, Realisation, Anticipation, Persistence and Initiation. This supports us in recognising small but significant steps of progress for pupils working below National Curriculum levels.

Pupils on the Sensory Pathway follow ImPACTS - a specialised framework designed specifically for learners with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). ImPACTS supports staff in meeting each pupil’s complex and individualised needs by focusing on four core areas:

• Communication – developing meaningful ways for pupils to express themselves.
• Cognition – supporting engagement, awareness and understanding of the world.
• Environmental Control Technology – enabling pupils to influence their environment using switches and other assistive technologies.
• Physical and Sensory – Exploration of the world through rich sensory experiences, routines and physical activities such as Hydrotherapy and Rebound Therapy.

ImPACTS provides a structured system for assessment, personalised target‑setting and therapy‑informed planning, allowing staff to track small steps of progress and ensure every learner receives an individualised, holistic programme. Its principles of individualisation, interaction and independence underpin all practice within the Sensory Pathway, supporting our pupils to develop confidence, communication skills and autonomy as they grow.