Norham High School has an Additionally Resourced Provision (ARP) for pupils with Language and Communication difficulties, including those pupils who are on the autistic spectrum. 

Most pupils transfer from primary schools at the usual transition points but a small number of pupils transfer to Norham High School ARP having experienced difficulties in other mainstream high schools, this can happen at any point throughout the year.

Curriculum Offer

Inclusion is of the utmost importance at Norham High School. Those pupils who can socially, emotionally and academically cope with the demands of a mainstream curriculum are supported to do so. Some pupils find this experience too challenging and require a higher, more specific, approach to education which is delivered within the ARP. Some pupils access some lessons in the main school and others in the ARP. Timetables are personal to the specific needs of each pupil. Pupil progress is reviewed on a regular basis.

The curriculum offer is reviewed on an annual basis and amended to meet the specific needs of the cohort of pupils.

Key Stage 3 Curriculum

Some pupils in the ARP have difficulties with basic literacy and these pupils access literacy intervention in addition to the English curriculum. This is responsive to the specific needs of the pupils.

Pupils are taught maths by stage rather than age, pupils complete a pre and post-test to assess progress through the modules of study. 

Key Stage 3 pupils also follow the national curriculum for all other subject areas and are supported to access all appropriate areas of the curriculum. Pupils within the ARP need to be given opportunities to express themselves in ways which do not rely on language. The curriculum offer therefore fully incorporates creative and practical subjects including: art, PE, ICT, music and food technology. 

The development of life skills and social skills are a key focus of the ARP curriculum. Pupils are taught to develop their independent living skills in preparation for Post 16 life. Pupils follow a bespoke programme, designed in collaboration with multiple professional agencies, which supports the development of core skills for life across the curriculum and beyond. 

Key Stage 3 pupils also have the opportunity to attend swimming lessons.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum

There are a small number of pupils who, by year 10, are still unable to access the mainstream curriculum. These pupils experience many barriers to learning and may have SEMH needs and/or cognition and learning difficulties alongside ASD or other language and communication difficulties. These pupils require a curriculum which meets their social, emotional and academic needs as well as preparing them to become independent adults in the Post 16 world. These pupils access:

• Bespoke GCSE curriculum taught within the ARP

• Alternative provision, when appropriate

• Access to entry level qualifications, when appropriate 

• Study towards the ‘Duke of Edinburgh Award’

Break and Lunch Support

At Norham High School we understand that breaks and lunchtimes can be difficult for some pupils. To support pupils at this time we offer full support for our ARP pupils during breaks and lunchtimes.

Pupils are supervised in the dining hall and afterwards. Pupils can play games, use the computer or play outdoor games supervised by familiar staff. Pupils are also supported to access the wider school activities clubs and are encouraged to do so. 

Pupil and Parent Views

"I can't believe the progress my son has made. When he started in Year 7 I would never have dreamed he would be sitting GCSEs" - Year 11 parent

“The support I receive from the ARP staff is excellent. I know I can pick up the phone with any problem and they will help." - Year 10 parent

"My son has settled so well. He has made new friends and has made good progress towards developing his social skills." Year 7 parent

“I wasn’t sure at first because my son has been out of a mainstream school for so long but sending my son to Norham is the best decision I have made. I can’t believe he will access some lessons in the mainstream this year.” - Year 9 parent

"I always feel supported. If I need help I know where to go to get it." - Year 10 pupil

Impact of the ARP – 2024 Results

• Our Year 11 ARP pupils achieved a total of 25 GCSE results with 12 of those being at grade 4+

• 100% of Year 11 pupils, in the ARP, left with a qualification in Maths, English & Science

• 100% of Year 11 pupils, in the ARP, left with a qualification in a key life skill: Food Technology

• An ARP pupil with high and complex needs achieved a grade 4+ in three core subjects (Maths, English & Science) as well as a 4 in Statistics

Get in touch

If you would like to speak to us about how we can support your child, please contact: 

Mr. Greg Collins

Deputy SENCo

Greg.collins@ntlp.org.uk 

Mrs Joanne Pearson

SENCo

joanne.perason@ntlp.org.uk