Physical and Sensory

Sensory and Environment

Being able to function and manage sensory input is at the core of our Discovery Curriculum, we are aware that how our pupils present is directly linked to how they process their senses and many require support and intervention to manage their sensory needs. A pupil’s learning journey starts with staff developing an understanding of the pupil’s sensory needs possibly supported by an individual sensory assessments overseen by our Occupational Therapist.

All our Discovery learners access a low arousal, autism friendly environment which is adapted to the needs of the individual and group as required for example some learners may require a personalised learning pod, others may require specific lighting, some may require specific equipment e.g. seating - ball chair, wobble stool, wobble mat, foot wobbles, ear defenders or concentrators. 

Sensory Circuits:

Sensory Circuits are embedded into pupils routines to enable them to be ready for learning experience By following the three stages of ALERT - ORGANISE - CALM. 

a guide to sensory circuits.pdf

 Fine Motor Skills:

All Discovery learners access a structured fine motor skill development program which is embedded within their daily timetable and individualised to their level of challenge. Learners progress along our Discovery fine motor skill progression which is quality assured by our Occupational Therapist. 

Gross Motor Skills:

Our Discovery learners also access a structured gross motor skills development program and have the opportunity to practice and overlearn these skills both in their timetable and in their unstructured times. Discovery learners access a range of equipment and resources to promote gross motor development.

Physical Education and Outdoor Learning:

Our specialist PAS team deliver PAS interventions including sensory circuits, rebound therapy, balance ability and gross motor skills programme throughout the week. All children will access at least one intervention weekly, enabling them to develop their physical, social, emotional and thinking skills.

We work closely with the PAS team to ensure that the skills covered during interventions are also integrated into the child’s play and learning throughout the week where possible in order to generalise and maintain the skills learnt and provide opportunities for overlearning.