Special Educational Needs
Our KS4 vocational programme encompasses students between the ages of 14 – 16 years of age. It is designed to be relevant and interesting with the intention to reward and motivate learners and improve their opportunities.
Year 12 students participating in practical work
In KS4 we build on the strong foundation already laid in KS3 and the curriculum is offered at each individual child’s level and pace to help develop our students as a whole.
The aim of the vocational programme is to deliver academic and confidence building opportunities that will help our students prepare for life as an adult. Pupils within the programme experience a wide range of exciting challenges during the two years of study. The structured and caring environment helps pupils reach their individual potential.
Our varied KS4 V.P. curriculum reflects the range of abilities of our pupils. It will provide them with the knowledge, skills and understanding needed for functional everyday living and to help prepare them for the world of work.
Curriculum areas
Students may complete accredited qualifications in the following areas:
• CoPE – Certificate of Personal Effectiveness
• Essential Skills Literacy (Entry 1 – 3) and Communication (Level 1 – 2)
• GCSE Art and Design or GCSE Contemporary Crafts
• Essential Skills Numeracy (Entry 1-3) and Application of Number (1-2)
• GCSE Occupational Studies
• OCN Applied Science
• OCN Information Technology Applications
• Prince’s Trust Achieve Programme – Personal Development and Employability
• Religious Education
Within the V.P. stream of study we aim to assist each pupil flourish by having:
• All staff trained in catering for the needs of SEN pupils
• Small class sizes with teaching assistants to support pupils in class and around the school
• Accredited courses designed to help our pupils achieve success
• Active learning and a hands on approach to study
• Activities to develop socially as well as academically
• Close partnership with careers services and Education Authority Transition Officers
• Work experience in Year 11 to gain valuable skills in a suitable local business environment. (This experience is very rewarding and gives pupils a greater insight into a post 16 career.)
Small class sizes mean pupils get a high level of attention and will thrive in this environment
Where can you get advice?
There is advice available from a range of people in school including:
• Principal – Mr Taylor
• Vice Principal/ Curriculum Coordinator – Ms Gilmore
• SENCO (Special Needs Coordinator) – Miss McCammon
• Vocational Programme teacher – Mr McClean
• KS4 Form Tutors – Mrs Killen and Mr McClean
Dedicated teachers will work with your child
At Blackwater Integrated College we aim to set the pace in delivering an appropriate, engaging, fun and individualised curriculum to our V.P. students, to enable them to best prepare for adult life
Useful links for Parents
https://www.eani.org.uk/services/pupil-support-services – EA support services
https://www.eani.org.uk/parents/special-educational-needs-sen – EA SEN info for parents
https://www.lexiacore5.com/ – Link to Lexia for our students
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/sen-guidance-parents – Department of Education SEN parent info
https://www.eani.org.uk/parents/useful-links-for-parents – Further useful links for parents from the Education Authority
