Welcome to our web-pages for all things related to your child's learning journey in the Moderate Learning Difficulties Unit, Classes 1 to 6. Here, you can find all the essential info about what your child will be getting up to each term, check out our timetables, and stay in the loop with our latest news and activities through our blogs and photo galleries showcasing the fantastic learning experiences we offer. Stay informed about future events by regularly reviewing the unit calendar.

Curriculum and Learning Update

Autumn Term is always an exciting time, and we have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming our new Year 7 pupils, who are all an amazing addition to our school family. This term, we are exploring the concept of 'Identity' with a particular focus on the Big Question: 'Can I think myself happy?' 

Our learners have really engaged with the subject of 'wellness' and have been exploring various ways to support and promote mental health. They have identified and practised basic watercolour techniques, analysed how colours represent emotions, applied these techniques in creating original watercolour paintings, and expressed personal happiness through their artwork.

 As part of their Health & Well-being development, learners have participated in the Celebrating Difference programme of learning.

Key activities have included:

• Discussing responses to bullying and identifying harmful words.
• Exploring who is special to them and ways to calm down.
• Practising the ‘solve it together’ technique and discussing how to support those being bullied.
• Reflecting on the impact of their word choices and learning to give and receive compliments effectively.
• Examining assumptions, their influences, and the effects of witnessing bullying, while celebrating their own uniqueness and special qualities.

The humanities curriculum has enabled learners to explore various types of holidays, both past and present. They have compared modern holidays with those from long ago and reflected on how holidays contribute to well-being and health. A key focus has been investigating how beach holidays in Wales have changed over time.

They particularly enjoyed visiting Trecco Bay Holiday Park, especially exploring a caravan.

 Learners have engaged in asking questions and learned about Buddhist beliefs regarding calmness and happiness. They have tried meditation and reflected on its effects, while also comparing holidays with Buddhist retreats to identify similarities and differences.

In their studies on Harmful Things in My Environment, learners have identified common toxins found in household items and understood the effects of air pollution. They have examined the causes and effects of water pollution, investigated the impacts of drugs on the human body, and discussed methods to reduce environmental risks.

On World Mental Health Day, we raised awareness of young people's mental health through the Hello Yellow charity, reinforcing the importance of mental wellness in our school community. We organised a fantastic event where everyone dressed in yellow—symbolising hope and positivity.

 We look forward to continuing this journey of exploration and learning throughout the term!

Additional Curricular Experiences, Enriching Visits and Activities

This term, our learners have enjoyed a variety of additional curricular experiences that have enriched their educational journey. A highlight was our yearly visit to Neath Fair, where they have a fun time as always.

Celebrating World Children’s Day

To mark World Children’s Day, we participated in a series of thoughtful and engaging activities designed to deepen our understanding of the Rights of the Child. Learners explored what these rights mean in everyday life and discussed the positive changes they would like to see for children across the globe. Everyone contributed brilliant ideas, which we captured in colourful posters. Some of the most heartfelt suggestions included ending poverty, ensuring all children have enough food, and creating more schools that fully support children with disabilities. It was an inspiring day that encouraged empathy, creativity, and a stronger sense of global responsibility.

​​​​​​

 Year 9 pupils had a wonderful taster session at Down to Earth, where they were warmly welcomed with hot drinks and biscuits. They participated in interactive games that encouraged teamwork and problem-solving, sharing feedback to help shape future activities.

A highlight was learning crochet skills, where everyone, guided patiently, discovered a new creative outlet. Overall, it was a memorable experience filled with fun and creativity, and we look forward to returning!

Everyone enjoyed the Halloween activities, which provided a fantastic opportunity for spooky story writing and practising money skills by buying pumpkins at a shop. Additionally, some classes went straight to the source and picked their own pumpkins at local farms.

Commitment to Climate Change

In our recent science lessons, we have been exploring the impact of environmental toxins, focusing on issues such as water pollution and air pollution. As part of our learning, we have been considering the positive actions we can take—individually and as a community—to help reduce these pollutants and protect our planet.

Learners have engaged in a range of hands-on investigations, including measuring water pollution as part of the Big River Watch, where they tested samples and observed the effects of contaminants on river health. Additionally, we took part in a lichen hunt, using different types of lichen as natural indicators of air quality.

This outdoor fieldwork helped learners understand how pollution affects living organisms and provided real-world insight into the science behind environmental monitoring. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed these experiments, developing both their scientific skills and their awareness of environmental responsibility.

Many pupils have embraced many extra-curricular opportunities, particularly dance and rugby club, and some of our students proudly represented the school in football tournaments, where they had a great time competing.

As we continue through the term, we look forward to more enriching experiences that foster learning, creativity, and a sense of community among our students.