Prairie
We are learning to be curious, active learners who show determination and a joy for learning.
Our adults are:
Mr Ansbro Miss Birtles Mr Shah
Who are we?
Prairie Class is for Years 3 and 4’s, that have been referred to the Meadow Alternative Provision. Our high adult to pupil ratio, allows us to unpick behaviours, face challenges and meet our pupils' unique needs. In doing so, we are able to address barriers to learning and challenge negative mindsets to empower our pupils to make positive choices, enjoy school and be happy. By working closely with schools and families, our pupils receive the same clear message, we are all working together to help them to be their best version of themselves.
How do we do this?
We sustain strong links with schools, with schools offering support once a week. This not only supports pupils to maintain positive relationships but it also enables us to ensure that their learning continues to build and develop as their peers back in school. We have a duty to deliver high quality learning experiences in line with their expectations in Key Stage 2 as part of the National Curriculum. We want our pupils to reach their true potential and having high expectations is key to this. Alongside this, bespoke therapeutic sessions address SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) needs. Skills are then embedded throughout the school day, with an emphasis on recognising your emotions and knowing what to do with these emotions. Having a strong relationship with members of staff, giving the children time if they’re struggling; as well as developing empathy, cooperation, compromise, friendship, resilience and self-regulation, is at the heart of all that we do.
What does the school week look like?
The morning starts with Maths, following White Rose Maths and then English, with different topics running alongside this. A typical day in Prairie class looks like:
9:00 – Toast Time
9:15 – English
10:00 – Break time
10:20 – Reading
10:35 – Maths
11:30 – Break Time
11:50 – Foundation Subject (History, Geography, Science/Computing etc.)
12:30 – Lunch
13:00 – Therapeutic Session
13:50 – Choose Time
14:15 – Calm Time
14:30 – Home Time
What do our pupils learn?
We try to mirror what pupils would be learning in school, merging year 3 and year 4 themes and incorporating a ‘hook’ and enthusiasm for learning. A high expectation and positive relationship with all the children with the idea that all children can achieve. Planning is responsive to the needs of our pupils, subsequently it is subject to change.
What do therapeutic lessons look like?
We use a selection of core texts to promote an understanding of our emotions, knowing how to identify them and learning how our emotions may impact ourselves and those around us.
We use visual prompts to expand our pupil’s emotional vocabulary, helping them to pinpoint how they are feeling, recognising when they are having a big or uncomfortable emotion and knowing it is ok and normal to feel a whole range of emotions.
Pupils are supported to identify the size of a problem, understanding that a small problem deserves a small response. By developing self-awareness, our pupils learn to understand their 'triggers' and they are better able to use their words and seek support, thus keeping problems small.
How long do pupils stay in Prairie Class?
It varies from pupil to pupil, but we are a short-term intervention. Placements usually last between 12 and 14 weeks, this includes a three-week transition plan back into school. Some circumstances may mean that a pupil may stay somewhat longer. Our holistic approach ensures we come together with our schools and families to make decisions that are in the best interest of our pupils.