Curriculum and Exams

At Northcroft School, our curriculum is designed to ensure that every student achieves meaningful academic success within a therapeutic and highly individualised framework.

We believe that emotional regulation, wellbeing, and confidence are the foundations upon which academic learning and examination success are built.

A Curriculum with Depth and Purpose

Our curriculum is rooted in the principle of depth, not breadth.

Students learn fewer topics but explore them in greater detail, securing genuine understanding and the ability to apply knowledge across contexts.

We align our teaching with Oak National Academy and assess progress using B² (Bsquared), ensuring that every step of learning is carefully tracked against EHCP outcomes and national standards.

Each subject plan is sequenced to build:

• Core knowledge and vocabulary
• Independent and collaborative learning skills
• Confidence in working towards formal assessment

This approach means that students are not rushed; they are supported to master essential concepts, revisit key learning, and experience the success of true progress.

Preparing for Exams

Students at Northcroft work towards a range of qualifications that reflect both their academic ability and their emotional readiness for assessment.

Our goal is for every learner to leave with accredited outcomes that enable transition into college, apprenticeships, or employment.

Our examination pathways include:

• GCSEs / iGCSEs in English, Maths, Science, History and Art ( 2026-2027)
• Functional Skills (Entry Level to Level 2) in English, Maths and ICT
• Entry Level Certificates and ASDAN or vocational awards
• Internal and moderated assessments linked to EHCP and B² outcomes

We recognise that exams can be challenging for some of our students, so we ensure that every learner has access to:

• Access arrangements (readers, scribes, extra time, rest breaks)
• Reduced anxiety through therapeutic preparation
• Personalised revision strategies and sensory regulation plans
• 1:1 or small group support during assessments

Our exam entries are made thoughtfully and collaboratively, balancing ambition with wellbeing.

Linking Therapy and Learning

Our curriculum is enriched through our therapeutic provision, including:

• Stable Futures :where students apply classroom learning through animal care, land management, and teamwork.
• Forest School :embedding problem-solving, leadership and communication.
• Thrive and PACE-based interventions – developing the emotional regulation necessary to sit and succeed in exams.

This integration ensures that therapy is not an “add-on”, but a central strand of academic progress.

Students are celebrated not only for exam success but for their growth in confidence, independence, and engagement.