Our Curriculum and Approach
Every child is unique, and every step forward matters.
At Special Steps, we understand that children develop in different ways and at different speeds, especially those with additional or complex needs.
Our curriculum is child-centred, flexible and individualised. We shape learning around each child, rather than expecting children to fit into a set programme.
We work closely with families and value parents and carers as partners, recognising that you know your child best.
Communication at the Heart of Everything We Do
Communication and language sit at the heart of our curriculum because being able to communicate is essential for learning, relationships, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
For some children, this means developing spoken language. For others, it may involve signs, symbols, visual supports, objects of reference or communication aids.
We value all forms of communication and support children to communicate in the way that works best for them.
Our Total Communication Approach
By placing communication first, we help children feel understood, reduce frustration and engage more confidently with the world around them.
We use a range of strategies to support understanding and expression, including:
- Spoken language
- Symbols and visual cues
- Sign language (Signalong)
- Objects and songs of reference
- Communication switches
The Unique Child
Every child at Special Steps is an individual, with their own strengths, needs and interests.
We take time to get to know each child and their family, using observation and assessment to understand their individual stage of development.
Learning is planned from each child's starting point, ensuring activities are meaningful, achievable and motivating.
Progress is measured in small steps and every achievement is recognised and celebrated, no matter how big or small.
Creating a Calm and Supportive Environment
We know that children learn best when they feel safe, calm and regulated.
Our environment is thoughtfully designed to support emotional wellbeing, sensory needs and engagement in learning.
How We Support Children
- Symbols to support understanding and predictability
- Objects and songs of reference to support transitions
- Sensory circuits and active play to support regulation and readiness to learn
- Different spaces offering different sensory experiences, including our playroom, sensory room and garden
- Calm, uncluttered layouts and carefully selected equipment that encourage purposeful play without overstimulation
These strategies help children feel secure, reduce anxiety and support positive behaviour.
Tracking Progress and Celebrating Development
At Special Steps, we recognise that progress looks different for every child.
We use the Cherry Garden framework to help us understand each child's development, identify individual strengths and plan appropriate next steps.
This allows us to track progress in small, meaningful ways and tailor support to each child's individual needs.
Progress is shared with parents and professionals, ensuring everyone works together to support each child's journey.
Families receive regular updates, observations and progress information through our digital platform.
Learn more about the Cherry Garden framework
Word Well
Our Word Well approach helps children build strong foundations in understanding and expressing themselves.
Each week, we focus on one core word, using a consistent sign, symbol and, where appropriate, a communication switch to support different ways of learning.
We bring each word to life through interactive activities such as songs, stories, games and sensory experiences.
This helps children connect with language in ways that are meaningful, motivating and engaging.
To support long-term learning, we revisit the same core words every half term, giving children opportunities to practise, build confidence and embed their understanding.
Our Word Well Approach Helps To:
- Develop early language skills
- Support speech, signing and symbol use
- Build communication confidence
- Reinforce understanding through repetition and play
- Develop engagement and positive interactions
By focusing on one word at a time, we make communication accessible, exciting and achievable for all children, wherever they are on their journey.
How Learning Happens at Special Steps
Learning at Special Steps takes place through play, everyday routines, adult-led activities and child-initiated experiences.
Our skilled practitioners model language, follow children's interests and adapt their support in the moment to meet individual needs.
Children are supported to develop confidence, independence and curiosity within a nurturing and inclusive environment.
The Impact of Our Curriculum
The impact of our curriculum and approach is that children feel safe, understood and valued.
By placing communication and relationships at the heart of everything we do, children are supported to express their needs, make choices and develop confidence in their own abilities.
Children make meaningful progress from their individual starting points, developing communication, social interaction, emotional regulation and independence skills.
Every step of progress is recognised and celebrated, helping children build a positive sense of self and a love of learning.
Our inclusive and nurturing approach supports children to form positive relationships, engage more confidently with their environment and prepare for future learning and transitions.
We strive to empower every child to reach their full potential.
