SPALD ASDAN and 9Vo
Purpose
Our ASDAN and Vocational curriculum is designed to develop a sense of self-worth and valuing and acceptance of others and their differences. They will also develop their ability to discuss, present their ideas, communicate, accept others point of view, work as a team and solve problems. These programmes and qualifications will enable students to develop a range of skills that are invaluable when they start work and begin independent lives.
Through this curriculum we want to engender a curiosity about the world around students and the role that they play within it.
Academic End Points |
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| Year 7 & 8 | Students in Years 7 and 8 learn how identity is shaped by experiences, culture, family and personal strengths, and they explore similarities and differences between people to build confidence and respect for diversity. They also study how communities function, including rights, responsibilities, cooperation and democratic participation, and consider ways individuals can contribute positively to society. Through the Health unit, they develop an understanding of physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, learning how habits, lifestyle choices and personal safety influence long‑term health. Students examine citizenship by exploring laws, democracy, equality and how people can influence change within society. They learn about the environment, including ecosystems, sustainability, climate impact and how human actions affect the planet. Finally, they build practical life skills through units on personal finance, enterprise, values and international understanding, developing budgeting skills, teamwork, moral reasoning and appreciation of global cultures. |
| Year 9 | In Year 9, students learn how to build healthy, respectful relationships by understanding trust, communication, boundaries and how to recognise harmful behaviours. They also develop safe and responsible social media habits, gaining awareness of digital footprints, online risks and how to identify misinformation. The curriculum strengthens emotional wellbeing by teaching students to recognise a wide range of emotions, understand personal triggers and use effective self‑regulation strategies. Students explore different family structures and the responsibilities involved in caring for children, including how families meet physical and emotional needs. Across all units, they practise communication, teamwork and problem‑solving through discussions, role‑play and scenario‑based activities. Overall, the programme builds confidence, empathy and independence, preparing students to navigate relationships, digital life, emotional challenges and family responsibilities as they grow into adulthood. |
| Year 10 & 11 | Across Years 10 and 11, students develop strong communication skills, learning to present information clearly, listen actively and adapt their communication for different audiences. They deepen their understanding of community by exploring belonging, responsibility, local services and the positive impact individuals can have through respect and volunteering. Their learning also focuses on physical and mental wellbeing, including healthy lifestyles, stress management, personal safety and the importance of resilience. Students gain practical independence skills such as budgeting, meal planning, household routines and informed decision‑making, alongside financial literacy through number handling and real‑life money management. They prepare for adulthood and employment by exploring career pathways, workplace expectations, transferable skills and completing CVs, applications and mock interviews. Finally, they broaden their understanding of the wider world through science and technology, global cultures, expressive arts and beliefs and values, developing curiosity, empathy and confidence as they move towards independent adult life. |
Click here to visualise the ASDAN and VO learner journey.
