Dolphin Class
There are nine children in Dolphin Class: five boys and four girls. We follow the Brooklands Blue Pathway (more information about the Blue Pathway can be found on the 'Blue Pathway' page). Our class team consists of a class teacher, a Learning Teaching Assistant (LTA), and two Teaching Assistants (TAs), all of whom work hard to support the children's learning and development.
Our daily routine begins in the same way each morning. Activities include an independent workstation with three tasks linked to individual targets, followed by Circle Time (a hello song and Zones of Regulation check-in). This is followed by a Mathematics or Literacy session and a Read Write Inc. (RWI) phonics session. During phonics, children are grouped according to their knowledge of speed sounds and are integrated with other children across the Blue Pathway. Each afternoon, we focus on topic-based learning, including PSHE, Art, Science, History, Geography, Cookery and Nutrition, and PE.
We enjoy applying and developing our skills within the wider community. This may include local trips, integration sessions, and outdoor learning opportunities
Weekly plans are built around a themed "hook". These hooks provide an overarching theme through which we deliver individualised activities based on the children's IPP targets, ensuring learning remains exciting and engaging. Sessions are delivered using the principles of Attention Autism and TEACCH, approaches that aim to develop attention skills while encouraging independence and confidence within the learning environment. Learning sessions begin with an irresistible input, followed by a range of engaging activities that pupils access using visual supports and clear structures, helping them to become brave, resilient, and increasingly independent learners. Through our curriculum and daily experiences, we promote the Brooklands Values by encouraging children to be kind, open-minded, and outward-looking, while developing the skills they need to become lifelong learners.
Each day, the children engage in Core Word sessions to develop their understanding of high-frequency words and further expand their vocabulary. These sessions are delivered using the principles of Attention Autism.
Daily Maths Meetings focus on developing the pupils' mathematical understanding through fun and engaging songs, games, and irresistible inputs. The aim of these sessions is to provide pupils with opportunities to apply mathematical concepts in a variety of contexts, helping to broaden and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
All staff use a range of total communication methods to support pupils' communication and language needs. These strategies include simple and clear speech, Intensive Interaction, visual supports, Objects of Reference, Colourful Semantics, Shape Coding, PECS, ALD boards, and Makaton signing.
If you would like to contact us, please do so using our email address: dolphinclass@brooklands.surrey.sch.uk
Autumn Term Topic – Out & About
Hooks: People Who Keep Us Safe, Things I Like, Our Community, Shops, Remembrance and Harvest, Weather and Seasons, Eco: Caring for Our Planet, and Christmas.
