🌳 Senior Phase Information

Welcome to the Senior Phase of your child’s learning journey!

Senior Phase is an important and empowering stage in your child’s educational journey.
This phase supports learners as they become more independent, capable and confident young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 16. We continue to follow an adapted version of the DCAPS curriculum, tailored to each learner’s individual support needs and real-life preparation.

🎯 What is our aim?

Our primary aim in the Senior Phase is to guide learners towards greater independence, practical life readiness and personal responsibility. At this level, learners are supported in developing essential life and work skills, building strong values and preparing for a productive and meaningful future.

🧠 Key Focus Areas

Take full responsibility for personal hygiene, grooming and appearance
Develop good time management and organisational habits
Follow classroom routines, respect authority and understand consequences
Work independently and in teams, completing tasks with increasing accuracy and pride
Build respectful and mature social relationships
Strengthen self-discipline, emotional control and problem-solving skills
Participate in practical tasks that reflect real-life scenarios, such as basic cooking, cleaning, shopping, money handling and work-related activities

A Day in the Senior Phase

There are no formal tests or examinations in the Senior Phase. Learners are promoted according to their age and developmental progress. Detailed progress reports are issued in June and December, reflecting each learner’s growth in all areas.

The school day includes a balanced combination of practical, academic, and life-oriented learning.

Key focus areas include:

• Functional academics: Practical maths, reading for purpose and writing for communication
• Life skills: Hygiene, health, household routines, safety, shopping and travel awareness
• Work preparation: Basic job responsibilities, time management and responsibility
• Social and emotional learning: Communication skills, relationships, boundaries, respect
• Creative and cultural activities: Art, music, role play, and community awareness
• Physical development: Exercise, coordination and team-based activities

The aim is to ensure that learners leave the Senior Phase with confidence, values and skills they need to lead a more independent and fulfilling life.

🏠 Homework Approach

While formal homework is still not assigned, learners may be encouraged to practise relevant life skills at home to reinforce what is being taught at school.

This could include preparing a simple meal, keeping their living space clean and organised, managing a small shopping list and budget, or taking responsibility for daily routines.

If your child is ready for more academic content—such as reading, writing, or basic numeracy—teachers may suggest specific activities to do at home. These recommendations are always based on the learner’s level of readiness and ability. Each learner continues to follow an individualised support programme that helps them move forward at their own pace while focusing on personal growth, not competition.

🤝 Working Together

We appreciate your continued support in encouraging your child to be responsible, respectful and independent. By reinforcing what is taught at school in your home environment—such as maintaining a routine, helping with household tasks and showing respect—you play a vital role in preparing your child for adulthood.

We also urge all parents to consistently promote good morals, discipline and ethical values, as these are essential to the success of our programme and your child’s development. Learners are expected to always follow the school’s code of conduct, which helps maintain a safe and supportive learning space for everyone.

Please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or the school if you have questions or concerns. We are here to support you and your child every step of the way.