Exploratory Learners

EXPLORATORY PHASE

Learners within the Exploratory phase learn through actively exploring the world around them. Learners access exploratory sessions that support the development of independence towards skills-based objectives. The areas of learning are designed to teach learners the essential knowledge required to develop the skills and concepts needed to achieve the levels of independence we aspire towards.

The development of functional expressive communication is central to learning within this phase. Learners are encouraged to engage and form secure, trusting relationships with adults to support participation in adult-led activities. Independence is promoted through a tiered approach involving adult modelling, planned sabotage and the gradual reduction of adult support over time. Behaviour for learning is a key focus, with staff using consistent, individualised strategies to support learners to be sensory and emotionally regulated, enabling them to be ready to learn.

Within the Exploratory phase, Mathematics and English skills are embedded across all areas of learning. These skills are taught in a purposeful and functional way, aligned with the phase’s approach to learning. Teaching skills and concepts through integrated areas of learning supports learners to develop functional mathematics and English that can be applied meaningfully.

Exploratory classes use curriculum themes as vehicles for skills-based learning. Class teams consider learners’ motivators and interests to promote engagement and strengthen teaching and learning. Adults support learners to access activities while developing functional self-help, play and communication skills. A balanced combination of child-led and adult-led learning supports positive working relationships between learners and staff within the phase.

Classes within the Exploratory phase offer a skills-based curriculum, where appropriate informed by elements of the TEACCH approach. Structured environments and routines are used to support learners to explore, develop skills and build growing independence.

Class	Teachers	email	Class information
Chicks (EEU)	Sarah Trueman	chicks@springside.rochdale.sch.uk	EYFS and Key Stage 1. Skills, concepts and essential knowledge delivered in a child-led, communication-rich, sensory and physical way.
Elephants	Laura Finch	elephants@springside.rochdale.sch.uk	Key Stages 1 and 2. Skills, concepts and essential knowledge delivered in a child-led, highly sensory, communication-rich and physical way.
Meerkats	Stephanie Valence	meerkats@springside.rochdale.sch.uk	Key Stages 1 and 2. Skills, concepts and essential knowledge delivered in a child-led, communication-rich, sensory and physical way.
Monkeys	Jessica Finch	monkeys@springside.rochdale.sch.uk	Key Stages 1 and 2. Skills, concepts and essential knowledge delivered in a child-led, communication-rich, sensory and physical way.

Please find Exploratory information and resources below...