Enrichment means providing pupils with a range of opportunities in addition to the classroom-based curriculum offer. The purpose of enrichment is to provide children with experiences they might not otherwise have, expand their interests and horizons and give them opportunities to develop skills in other areas.
Due to our pupils’ learning needs, (and the need to make the curriculum multi-sensory and practical), our child-centered approach and the priority we give to promoting the personal and individual development of our pupils, enriching activities are an often an integral part of the curriculum offer.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a nationally recognized programme that helps young people develop independence, resilience, and key life skills through a series of structured challenges. At Ormiston Queensmill Academy, we adapt the Award to ensure it is accessible, meaningful, and enriching for all our learners.
We enroll students in Year 11/12 and support them to complete the Skills, Volunteering, and Physical sections during their first year, tailoring each element to individual strengths and needs.
Activities are designed to promote communication, self-confidence, cooperation and self regulation. In Year 14, students are offered to take part in a residential trip where they complete the final Expedition section of the Award. This carefully supported experience gives them the chance to put together the skills learn during the programme as well as work as a team, develop problem-solving skills, and enjoy the challenge of an overnight stay in a new environment.
For our students, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is not only an achievement but also a powerful tool for personal growth and preparation for adulthood.
At Ormiston Queensmill Academy, Physical Education (PE) plays a vital role in supporting the physical, emotional, and social development of our students. We deliver an inclusive, engaging, and well-rounded programme that caters to the diverse needs of all our pupils.
Our provision combines activities such as swimming, trampoline, and structured PE lessons. These are delivered both in groups and through one-to-one sessions, ensuring that each pupil can participate in a way that suits their individual needs and maximizes their engagement and progress.
Our offer is further enhanced by a range of activities. This includes climbing, now extended to include our primary pupils, and kayaking, which continues to build confidence. This year, we have also introduced tennis sessions within our school building. For our Early Years and primary pupils, we have also launched a session at Snakes and Ladders.
Beyond the curriculum, our pupils benefit from additional physical opportunities such as outdoor gyms, biking, and community gym sessions. These experiences are complemented by enriching off-site visits, including trips to Wimbledon, external galas, and tours of professional football stadiums.
At Ormiston Queensmill Academy, we offer a structured and inclusive work experience programme tailored to our learners. Starting from Key Stage 3 and continuing through to Post-16, students take part in both in-house and community-based placements that help them build key skills for adulthood.
In-House Work Experience
Students participate in a range of school-based roles within a familiar environment, including working in our school café, supporting classroom activities, assisting in the library, helping with office admin, or contributing to site maintenance. These placements promote responsibility, routine, and confidence while developing core employability and communication skills.
Community-Based Work Experience
When appropriate, students also engage in work placements across the local community, where they are supported by school staff. Our current partnerships include:
These opportunities allow students to generalise their skills in real-world settings, interact with the public, and experience diverse work environments.
Our aim is to ensure every student has the chance to explore their interests, gain confidence, and develop the skills needed for future employment or further education.
At Ormiston Queensmill Academy, Computing is designed to support the individual needs of our pupils in a calm, structured, and engaging environment. Students develop important digital skills through hands-on activities using computers, tablets, VR headsets and other technology.
Lessons are carefully planned to be visual, predictable, and linked to students’ interests, helping them build confidence, creativity, and independence. We focus on practical skills such as using technology for communication, programming, creating digital content, and understanding how computers work.
E-Safety is an essential part of our curriculum. Pupils are taught how to use the internet safely and respectfully, recognise potential online risks, and know what to do if they feel unsure or uncomfortable online. Our goal is to prepare students to navigate the digital world in a safe, meaningful, and empowering way.