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Thornfield House special School, Newtownabbey

Curriculum

Welcome to Our Post-Primary Department

We provide a caring, supportive environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially. Our aim is to prepare young people for life beyond school by building confidence, independence, and essential skills for the future.

Key Stage 3

  • Pupils follow the Northern Ireland Curriculum at a level suited to their needs.
  • We have small class sizes to ensure personalised support.
  • Core subjects include:
  • English, Maths, History, Geography, Science, ICT, Home Economics, LLW, PE, Art, Music and Spanish.
  • We deliver a KS3 Social Skills Programme to develop confidence, friendships, and self-esteem. Pupils have the opportunity to take part in outdoor learning, after-school clubs, and educational trips.

 

Key Stage 4

Throughout Key Stage 4, pupils work towards accredited qualifications tailored to their needs and abilities. Our current offer of qualifications include:

  • Entry Level English & Maths
  • Essential Skills in Communication & Application of Number
  • Employability Skills
  • Vocational Skills
  • Creative Art & Digital Technologies
  • Religious Studies
  • Personal Success & Wellbeing
  • Occupational Studies
  • Schools partnership with Northern Regional College (NRC) - Each week, pupils attend NRC for Occupational Studies in areas such as Engineering, Construction, Design & Creativity, and Business & Services.

 

Post-16 Pathway

Our newly established Post -16 Pathway is designed for pupils who benefit from provision at Thornfield House beyond Year 12.

  • Our focus is to develop functional skills, independence, and real-world experience.
  • Key elements include:
  • Essential Skills in Communication and Application of Number
  • OCN  Award in Community Independence, incorporating independent travel training.
  • OCN Award in Progression to Employment – includes time management and work experience at AEL
  • Occupational Studies at NRC – Currently completing units in Sports Leadership and Running a Leisure Event
  • Heroes Plus Programme – Youth development initiative delivered by AEL and funded by Peace Plus

At Post 16 we place emphasis on building confidence, independence, and preparing for further education or employment.