Curriculum Awards

Curriculum Awards

At Old Windebrowe School, we believe that all learners should work towards meaningful, aspirational awards and qualifications that stretch and challenge them appropriately, while recognising their individual starting points and achievements. Our curriculum awards are carefully selected to support academic progress, personal development, independence, and preparation for adulthood.

Traditional Qualifications.

Some learners, particularly those following Pathway 1, may be able to access more traditional qualifications, such as GCSEs or other nationally recognised qualifications. These are offered where appropriate and are carefully adapted and supported to ensure learners are able to engage meaningfully and experience success.

Decisions about accessing traditional qualifications are made on an individual basis, taking into account each pupil’s strengths, needs, interests, and long‑term outcomes.

ASDAN.

At Old Windebrowe School, we subscribe to the ASDAN (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network) programme. ASDAN is a nationally recognised awarding body and curriculum development organisation that offers programmes designed to develop skills for learning, skills for work, and skills for life.

Our learners work towards a range of ASDAN qualifications, including:

• ASDAN Transition Challenge – specifically designed to support learners with severe learning difficulties as they prepare for adulthood.
• ASDAN Youth Award – for pupils who are ready for greater challenge and independence.
• ASDAN Personal Development.
• ASDAN WorkRight.

These programmes allow learners to demonstrate progress in areas such as communication, independence, problem‑solving, teamwork, and employability. All coursework is externally moderated, and successful completion results in nationally recognised certificates.

Further information can be found on the ASDAN website.

AQA Unit Awards.

As part of our learning for life approach, learners also work towards AQA Unit Awards. These awards recognise small‑step achievements and accredit learning linked directly to:

• Classroom activities.
• Life‑skills development.
• Project‑based learning.
• Community and enrichment activities.

AQA Unit Awards allow pupils to gain formal accreditation for the skills and knowledge they develop through practical, meaningful experiences. This approach supports motivation, confidence, and a sense of achievement while recognising progress that may not be captured through traditional qualifications.