Preparing for the Future

^{Key Stage 4 at Fern House}

Our core purpose in Key Stage 4 is to equip every pupil with the academic qualifications and personal resilience they need to successfully navigate the next stage of their journey—be that college, apprenticeship, further training or the workplace.

We understand that the transition from the supportive environment of Fern House to the wider world can be challenging, which is why developing confidence and resilience is central to our curriculum. We strive to build on the foundations established in KS2 and KS3, specifically addressing the language, economic and cultural barriers many of our pupils face.

^{Academic Foundations and Qualifications}

Competence in core subjects is the essential foundation for future success and employability. All pupils undertake a Functional Skills course in English and Maths at Entry Level or Level 2. Where appropriate, pupils are encouraged and supported to pursue GCSE qualifications to maximise their academic potential.

^{Developing Essential Life Skills}

Our curriculum goes beyond traditional academics, providing a broad and purposeful range of lessons and workshops designed to develop crucial life skills for independent living and work. These offer real-life experience and skills in areas such as:

• Money Management

• Workplace Skills and Employability

• Writing CV and Cover Letters

• Interviewing

• Road Safety

• Food Hygiene

• Government and Politics

• Every day Problem-Solving

• Independent Travelling

^{Broadening Experience and Personal Growth}

To provide invaluable opportunities that pupils might not otherwise access, we embed activities that promote physical, practical and social development. All pupils undertake the Premier League Inspires Programme, providing a structured way to broaden their experiences and enhance their teamwork and problem-solving skills, further building their confidence and sense of achievement.

Pupils attend London Careers Fair and have an opportunity to explore a wide array of job roles, sectors and industries. We aim to ignite a new passion or drive for their post-16 ambitions.

Workplace visits and workshops give pupils a chance to meet local and national employers face-to-face, where they can ask questions and gain an invaluable understanding of career pathways, helping them match their skills and interests to future opportunities.

We ensure that our entire KS4 curriculum is both engaging and purposeful, directly linking to the pupils’ goals for life after Fern House.