Chailey Heritage School

Secondary Department

Welcome to the Secondary Department  

In the Secondary Department, class groups cater for students from 11 to 16 years of age, covering Key Stages 3 and 4. Pupils are grouped according to their age and educational needs. We provide each young person with a timetable which is personalised to meet his or her individual needs. National Curriculum subjects are addressed through bespoke learning activities to meet the varied needs of the pupils. Subjects are generally taught by the class teacher and specialised teachers, but groups can be inclusive for language sessions and physical activities.  

Teachers in the department ensure pupils’ timetables show breadth and balance of all recommended curriculum areas across the school week. The secondary curriculum is based on the National Curriculum at Key Stages 3 and 4, although on a few occasions also mapped to Programmes of Study for earlier Key Stages. QCA Schemes of Work and the Equals Schemes of Work are used throughout to provide content. Pupils at Key Stage 4 have also access to Entry Level Certificates for Maths, English and Science if appropriate. All Key Stage 4 pupils follow the Foundation Learning Framework in their vocational learning sessions. 

Teaching sessions are structured to develop life skills and concepts acquired in the Primary Department, together with the application of learnt skills. The development of self-esteem, self-advocacy and independence as well as awareness, respect and consideration of others is actively encouraged to empower pupils to make a positive contribution to society.  

The culture of the Secondary Department enables staff to respond to the ever changing needs of the pupils as they mature. The strength of the department is embedded in a positive atmosphere created by dedicated staff, who provide a happy, secure and challenging environment.       

"We feel massively privileged and fortunate that our daughter has, and continues to, benefit from being a pupil at your school. She has achieved so much more than just the smile forecast by the diagnosing consultant at the age of 5 months, as predicted by a brain scan. Please continue the work of integration of teaching/therapy and medical and equipment oversight which you do so successfully and which we believe she is testimony to."    (Parent's comments)

"The curriculum is planned very well to make it appropriate to pupils’ ages. Therefore, older secondary-aged pupils follow an appropriate individual work-related learning programme and they acquire accreditation via entry level certificates and units of the Unit Award Scheme."     (Ofsted Report September 2009)

More Testimonials

Click here for the secondary department news and gallery.