The curriculum accounts for the support and education provided to students. It draws attention to aspects that are particularly pertinent for appropriate provision settings such as student induction, quality of education as well as physical and mental health and wellbeing.
The Department for Education (2013) states that good Appropriate Provision will differ from pupil to pupil, but there are some common elements that alternative provision should aim to achieve, including:
- good academic attainment on par with mainstream schools – particularly in English, maths and science (including IT) – with appropriate accreditation and qualifications.
- that the specific personal, social and academic needs of pupils are properly identified and met in order to help them to overcome any barriers to attainment.
- improved pupil motivation and self-confidence, attendance and engagement with education; and
- clearly defined objectives, including the next steps following the placement such as reintegration into mainstream education, further education, training or employment.
Meridian House aims to meet his criteria with a focus on students in years 9 to 11, which is defined as Key Stage 4 in Meridian Trust schools.
Meridian House has high expectations, academic rigor and a focus on addressing individual needs. The aim is to seek to help students re-discover learning and get themselves back on track. The curriculum is shaped by the trusts ambition is for every student to succeed across a broad and balanced range of subjects. Students at Meridian House have an enhanced focus on social, moral, spiritual and cultural education, wider opportunities within and beyond the classroom and planned extended work experience. This learning is planned to meet all the ‘Gatsby Benchmarks’ for high quality careers advice, information and guidance. Unifrog is the trusts online platform provider, whose mission is to “level the playing field when it comes to young people finding the best opportunities for them; we put having a positive social impact before anything else.”
Three Pathways
At Meridian House there are three curriculum pathways for Yr9, 10 and 11, offering appropriate nationally recognised qualifications, alongside a wider curriculum, which can be tailored to suit individual needs and interests. A bespoke extended work placement in Yr10 and Yr11 supports a strong vocational focus and is good preparation for further vocational study or apprenticeships at 16 – 19, either in education or training. Meridian House is committed to securing first class work opportunities in partnership with families, to create opportunities for the future.
Baseline Curriculum Offer
| English | Maths | Vocational Subject | Community Experience | Skills for Life | Sports and Recreation |
| GCSE (or equivalent) English Language and English Literature | GCSE (or equivalent) Maths | To develop interest and skills in a vocational subject such as Business, Health & Social Care, Sport technology | Work Experience with potential for ASDAN Employability or BTec Workskills certification | PSHE, Careers Education | Sports, fitness and Outdoor Education |