Kershaw Wood Centre

"Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think". Albert Einstein

Welcome

At First Steps Together our aim is to engage our students by utilising the vocational and educational needs of all students. By drawing on the experience and knowledge of our team we have created a unique learning environment, which we can tailor to suit the needs of the most demanding of young people.

Students come to us with a variety of learning and behavioural challenges, who find that learning in a mainstream or pupil referral setting is not suitable for them. Coming to First Steps Together provides them with an opportunity to experience a hands on approach to learning, enabling them to develop new skills and interests with a view to preparing them for further education or employment in adulthood.

Our Curriculum

Students are given the freedom to explore their academic interests, and they are encouraged to learn at their own pace. This approach helps to foster love of learning and can lead to greater academic success and achievement.

The development of practical life skills, such as time management, organisation, and self-discipline, which are essential for success both in and outside of the classroom.

We emphasises the importance of community and collaboration, which helps young people develop strong social skills and the ability to work effectively with others. Our learning for young people provides a holistic and student-centered approach to education that is designed to meet the unique needs and interests of each individual student, and can help prepare them for success in college and beyond.

The school caters for 8 - 12 year olds. Classes have a teacher known as a leader and teaching support staff known as a guide. As part of our curriculum offer our school ensures that every student explores and engages in a strong fundamental learning experiences in English,
mathematics, science and computing.

We have designed our curriculum to allow students to explore the world they live in and the societies they are part of. Across a broad and balanced curriculum students will engage in topic based learning opportunities with themes from across history, geography, music, art and sport.

Vocational learning is the backbone of our curriculum. We strongly believe that our educational experiences should prepare our young people for the world of work and their future in society. Students will have the opportunity to gain vocational experiences in and around school as well as externally. Regulated courses in animal care, hospitality and catering, construction and more.

Group & School Policies

Information for Parent/Carers

SEND & Local Offer

Admission

We work with local schools and local authorities to support re engagement of students in education. All admissions are agreed in partnership with learning partners such as local authority, SEND teams, families and the students current educational settings. Our full admission policy can be found here.