Welcome to Oak

Teacher Iwona Litwiniec
Photo of Iwona Litwiniec

Welcome to Oak class!

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Oak is a class of 10 students with diverse needs and abilities. They are supported by three members of staff. We use a total communication approach; this includes SingAlong, symbols and verbal, to communicate our wishes, needs, feelings and knowledge.
We follow a broad curriculum which consists of formal learning in a wide range of subjects (English, Maths, Science, PSHE, Art, Computing, DT, Humanities, MFL, Music, PE) alongside an informal curriculum which includes various therapies (hydro, music, sensory) and support around our EHCP outcomes.
We also follow a PfAL (Preparing for Adult Life) curriculum, which encourages independence and competency in a wide range of life skills. This is supported by our weekly visits to the Patch and our regular visits around the local community.
All class activities are differentiated and tailored to meet individual needs and interests, meaning the pupils are happy to learn, they have lots of fun and build their confidence in many areas.

Oak Timetable – Summer term 1 – 25/26

Summer Term 1 25/26 Dragons and castles
Strand and Profile Profiles in ClassIdeas for home
Communication and Literacy - Communicationwe will work on and practise student’s individual communication needs and skills using alternative methods of communications: iPads, symbols, switches, Signalong signsTry to read/look at/browse through the books every night before bedtime. Can you make it into a routine?
Communication and Literacy :- 1:1 readingwe will continue weekly individual sessions focusing on reading for pleasure, story time in small groups with story sacks, listening to stories on the interactive screen, sharing and taking turns during reading/listening.
Communication and Literacy :- Our topic is the book “Zog”. Students will be exploring the story, which is part of our Talk 4 Writing approach. They will be taking part in the immersion stage of this story. We will read the book as a class and then explore character/settings and descriptions through a variety of different activities. We will also learn some new words and create a class dictionary with definitions that are relevant. We will learn signs and a short 5-sentence version to help recall and retell the story. Share a book with your siblings. Read the story “Zog”. Talk about dragons; watch the story on BBC iPlayer with your child. Visit your local library to browse through the books.
Mathematics and Problem Solving: Mathematics: Measurement - Each lesson students will complete a carousel of practical activities to support their learning in these areas. During our weekly shopping trips, we will be comparing sizes or weights of different items. Try to access free websites to practise maths skills: https://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/fun-games www.topmarks.co.uk www.twinkl.co.uk https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/ Use scales, count ingredients when cooking.
Mathematics and Problem Solving: Functional NumeracyWe will transfer skills learnt in our maths lessons, to other areas of our day and other subjects, such as cooking or shopping. We will count and measure ingredients, use different pieces of equipment: scales, cups, spoons etc. Pouring, digging, exploring different sized plant pots with mud. Posting bugs and bulbs into posting boxes. Planting seeds and bulbs Exploring different sized vegetables, fruits – lots more.
Personal DevelopmentPlaying and interacting with others. Pupils will working in small groups on a range of activities, sharing toys, taking turns and exploring the space together. Each student will work on his or her individual personal targets through different tasks. This term we also will be continuing teeth brushing. Take turns and share toys, tools or equipment at home.
Physical DevelopmentSome students will be working towards their physical and mobility outcomes using specialist equipment. Some pupils will receive daily physio, weekly hydro or/and rebound sessions. All pupils will have a focused session around their own individual physical targets, which link to their PLG/EHCP outcomes. Have you tried cycling? Swimming? Encourage climbing, rolling, crawling, jumping. Trampolining? Bouncing on a peanut ball? Go and have fun together on the playground!
Understanding the World - The Patch We will explore our school garden using our senses; or/and completing some tasks: planting, watering, clearing etc. Practise safe road crossing when in the community. Walk around where you live.
Understanding the World - Woodland AreaWe will explore our school’s Woodland Area using elements of Forest School, being healthy and enjoying being outside. We will also explore some key celebrations throughout this half term in lessons or as day topics.
Expression and CreativityArt & Music: Students will take part in-group sessions of Sound Baths deliver by external practitioner Annette. (29th April and 6th May) We will be creating art and crafts with a theme. This half term we will be linking art to our topic of Zog and dragons. We will use Tac-Pac and relaxation as group technique to build trust and relationships. Try sensory or experimental painting at home. Have fun mixing colours and creating new ones. Enjoy your child’s creativity.
Personalised LearningEach student in Oak Class will be working towards their individual outcomes; Personal Learning Goals (PLGs), Therapeutic Plans and Communication Needs. Try to incorporate your child’s PLGs in daily activities.