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At Rufford, we RISE

At Rufford Primary School, we are proud to offer our Pathway Learning Centre — a specialist provision within our mainstream school. Rooted in our core values of Resilience, Integrity, Self-awareness and Excellence, the Pathway Learning Centre reflects our belief that every child deserves the right support, at the right time, to thrive.

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Our Pathway provision enables pupils with additional or specific needs to access a nurturing, structured and highly personalised learning environment while remaining part of our wider Rufford community. We live our motto every day: At Rufford, we RISE.

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Our Vision

The Pathway Learning Centre is designed to help children build confidence, develop key skills and grow emotionally as well as academically. We aim to remove barriers to learning, strengthen self-belief and support pupils to achieve positive outcomes that prepare them for successful participation in school life.

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Referrals to our Pathway Learning Centre

Placements in the Pathway Learning Centre are designed to provide the right support at the right time for pupils with additional needs or emerging SEND needs who may benefit from a smaller, nurturing environment or support with confidence and emotional regulation. Placements are typically short term, lasting 6–12 weeks, with the aim of removing barriers to learning and increasing successful access to mainstream education. Referrals are usually made through the child’s current school, SENCO or relevant professionals, and are always discussed with parents and carers to ensure Pathway is the most appropriate provision.  Dudley's Inclusive Pathways Team will review referrals and work with families, the child's home school, other agencies and our school to secure a place in our Pathway.

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What We Offer

Specialist Provision within a Mainstream Setting

Our Pathway Learning Centre provides targeted support for pupils with identified needs within an inclusive school environment. This allows children to benefit from specialist teaching while maintaining meaningful links with mainstream classes.

We carefully balance:

• Specialist instruction

• Mainstream integration

• Individual support

• Opportunities for independence​​

An Individualised Curriculum

Every child in Pathway follows a personalised learning journey. Our curriculum:

• Is tailored to each pupil’s needs

• Focuses on essential skills and confidence-building

• Develops emotional resilience and self-awareness

• Supports both academic and personal growth

A Safe and Inclusive Environment

Children learn best when they feel safe, valued and understood. Our Pathway Learning Centre provides:

• A calm, nurturing atmosphere

• Strong, positive relationships with staff

• Support for emotional wellbeing

• Opportunities to develop social skills

Integration with Whole School Life

Being part of Rufford matters. Pupils in Pathway are fully included in school life wherever possible. This includes:

• Mainstream lessons

• Enrichment activities

• School events and celebrations

• Social times with peers

This helps children develop a strong sense of belonging and connection to our school community.

Working in Partnership

Our Pathway Learning Centre works closely with Dudley’s SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy. We are committed to:

• Early identification of needs

• Responsive and timely support

• Close liaison with pupils’ home schools

• Strong multi-agency collaboration

We regularly work alongside:

• Educational psychologists

• Health professionals

• Social care services

• Other specialist partners

This joined-up approach ensures children receive the comprehensive support they need.

Quality and Outcomes

We continually monitor progress and evaluate the impact of our provision. Our focus is always on:

• Positive outcomes for pupils

• Removing barriers to learning

• Promoting inclusion and equality

• Ensuring high-quality support

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A Place to Grow and Succeed

The Pathway Learning Centre is a valued part of Rufford Primary School. Through personalised learning, inclusive practice and strong partnerships, we support pupils to develop confidence, resilience and the skills they need to flourish within the mainstream school community and beyond