Grasshoppers
To accomodate the growing number of children at Northgate Primary with complex needs on roll at our school, the provision of Grasshoppers has been developed.
Grasshoppers has been running for one year and is accessed by 10 children who are being supported to either integrate back into mainstream, or to transition to specialist settings.
Children who access Grasshoppers will either have an EHCP or be in the process of obtaining an EHCP.
Who Can Access Grasshoppers?
Children in Grasshoppers must have an EHCP or be in the process of obtaining an EHCP. Discussions are held between SLT/SENCO and the Grasshoppers Lead to review the entry and exit criteria for the group.
A child is intregrated into the mainstream setting when sufficient progress has been made and it is deemed that the child can thrive for at least 50% of the time in mainstream. This may require a longer period of transition and/or one to one support.
Staffing
Grasshoppers is line managed by the SENCO. There is a Grasshopper Lead and four teaching assistants all of whom are full time. Children in Grasshoppers are taught PE by a Sports Coach on a weekly basis.
Curriculum
Children in Grasshoppers access a specialised curriculum. This involves using some aspects of the EYFS curriculum and the Engagement Model. Some children may access the Pre-Key Stage curriculum. All children also access a sensory curriculum to support their development. Adults also support children daily with specific targets from their EHCPs.
Reading
ELS is taught daily.
Writing
Children access a range of activities to support with developing fine motor skills. All children have daily opportunities to mark-make.
Maths
This is linked to hands on experiences.
Outside Learning
Children in Grasshoppers develop their coordination skills on the trimtrail and also access a sensory garden.
Attention Autism
Children engage in adult led sessions using sensory resources. These sessions help children to understand and respond to an adult directed routine. Attention Autism helps to develop attention, listening and social communication skills.
Communication
Core boards are used to aid communication and visuals are used throughout the day.
Assessment
Ongoing assessments are made against each child's individual targets.
Termly assessments are also undertaken.
Annual EHCP reviews are also held to feedback on targets.