Organisation of Teching and Learning / School day

Lower and Upper School

Pennine View is divided into Lower School (Year 3 – Year 8 pupils) and Upper School (Year 9 – Year 11 pupils). Our approach to the timetabled curriculum is different in each part of school and we have developed different learning pathways dependent on pupil need. 

The structure of the curriculum embraces three progressive learning pathways: Experience, Express and Assert. Teaching is contextualised and current and, therefore, pupils are engaged and excited about their learning. Real life examples are used as a rich resource to stimulate thinking, questioning, communicating and learning.

Experience Level

At the EXPERIENCE level (Barn Owl, Tawny Owl, Eagle, Falcon), pupils should encounter learning in a range of contexts and be given opportunities to observe, explore and play.  Staff are enablers and facilitators of learning at this stage through questioning, and modelling awe and wonder at the world. This is the foundation for empowering our pupils to take on the world.

Express Level

At the EXPRESS level (Harrier, Merlin, Starling, Kestrel and Robin), pupils should encounter learning in a range of contexts and be supported to be able to develop and express their own opinions across the curriculum. Staff are facilitators of pupil-led learning at this stage through challenge and support, and creating a safe environment for every pupil to express themselves. This is the platform for empowering our pupils to take on the world.

Assert Level

At the ASSERT level (Osprey, Red Kite, Kingfisher), pupils should build on previous learning in a range of contexts, explicitly learning about a range of local and global issues and be supported to be able to assert and justify their own opinions across the curriculum. Staff are facilitators of pupil-led learning at this stage, providing opportunities for pupils to become experts in concepts, refine their ideas and demonstrate clear understanding of the knowledge and skills they have learned. Our pupils are now empowered to take on the world.

Tutor groups

Pupils are organised into tutor groups of approximately 12 pupils with one class teacher and two teaching assistants. Our school timetable is based on a primary mainstream model. There is a small amount of specialist teaching in Lower School and this is increased in Upper School.