At Acre View Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that every pupil experiences success, develops independence and gains the knowledge and skills they need for life. Many of our pupils have complex SEND needs and learn in ways that differ from their peers. For some children, the National Curriculum can present significant barriers to learning and may not always reflect their individual starting points or developmental needs.

To ensure that every pupil can access a curriculum that is meaningful, ambitious and appropriate, we have introduced the Equals Curriculum for pupils working below National Curriculum expectations. The school is implementing and developing the Equals Curriculum to ensure clear progression, consistent classroom practice and precise adaptation for pupils with SEND, supporting engagement, independence and progress.

What is the Equals Curriculum?

The Equals Curriculum is a nationally recognised curriculum designed specifically for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. It provides structured pathways for learning that focus on developing communication, independence, emotional wellbeing, personal development and life skills alongside academic learning.

The curriculum is carefully sequenced to allow pupils to build knowledge and skills step by step, celebrating small but significant achievements and ensuring learning is relevant to each child's needs and future aspirations. The school's development plans emphasise clear sequencing, adaptation and personalised learning approaches for pupils with SEND.

Why Have We Introduced Equals?

At Acre View, many pupils join us having experienced challenges in education, including difficulties with communication, emotional regulation, anxiety and learning. Our school already provides highly personalised support through specialist staff, clinical teams and tailored interventions.

The Equals Curriculum strengthens this approach by providing:

• Learning pathways tailored to individual needs.
• A clear focus on independence and preparation for adulthood.
• Greater opportunities for pupils to develop communication and social skills.
• A curriculum that celebrates progress from each child's starting point.
• Clear progression for pupils who are not yet ready to access all aspects of the National Curriculum.

By implementing Equals across the school, we can ensure that learning is ambitious whilst remaining accessible and meaningful for every pupil. The school's planned approach includes personalised targets, sensory strategies, AAC support and curriculum adaptations to meet individual SEND needs.

How Will It Benefit Children?

The Equals Curriculum has been chosen because it reflects the needs of our pupils and supports the whole child. Through the curriculum, pupils will:

Build Independence

Children will develop practical life skills, confidence and self-help abilities that support them both in school and beyond.

Improve Communication

Pupils will have regular opportunities to develop speech, language, communication and interaction skills through meaningful learning experiences.

Increase Engagement

Learning is designed to be accessible, motivating and relevant, helping pupils become active participants in their education.

Develop Emotional Wellbeing

Links with our Thrive journey and wider pastoral support will help pupils develop resilience, self-regulation and positive relationships.

Achieve Success

The curriculum recognises and celebrates progress in all its forms, ensuring every child experiences success and develops a positive attitude towards learning.

Prepare for the Future

Children are supported to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for the next stage of their education and wider life.

A Personalised Approach

No two children at Acre View are the same. The Equals Curriculum allows us to personalise learning while maintaining high expectations for every pupil. Through carefully planned teaching, specialist support and strong relationships, we ensure that each child is challenged appropriately and supported to achieve their full potential.

Our vision is for every pupil to Soar to Success, and the Equals Curriculum will play an important role in helping us achieve this by ensuring learning is meaningful, engaging and tailored to the unique strengths and needs of every child.