Our Core Pillars of Learning
Our curriculum is life-based, preparing students to develop independence, self-regulation, and autonomy.
Every aspect of our provision is built around the four key pillars of Preparation for Adulthood (PfA), as outlined in the SEND Code of Practice.
Broad Subject Offer
Alongside these pillars, students benefit from a broad subject offer that includes functional English (including the teaching of reading), functional maths, and cultural capital.
Cultural Capital Curriculum
Our Cultural Capital curriculum is a vital part of how we prepare students for adulthood, offering a broad range of creative and cultural subjects- such as geography, history, RE, music, and art—that enrich learning beyond the classroom.
By engaging in this content, students develop key communication, social, and critical thinking skills that directly support their Community, Social Relationships & Friendships PfA outcomes.
Exploration of global and local cultures fosters an understanding of diverse perspectives, supporting students’ self-awareness and empathy- essential for Independent Living & Daily Life Skills and community inclusion. Creative subjects also enhance Health & Well-being through self-expression, emotional regulation, and resilience.
Art, Music & Cultural Studies
Finally, exposure to art, music, and cultural studies broadens horizons for Employment, Training & Vocational Skills, equipping students with transferable skills- such as teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural awareness.
Work-related Learning & Functional Fitness
We also provide work-related learning opportunities and promote functional fitness through gym sessions and health-related exercises- ensuring a holistic and well-rounded educational experience for every learner.
Curriculum Sequencing and Progression
How Learning Builds Year on Year
At Charlton Park Academy, every pathway has a carefully sequenced progression model that ensures learning builds cumulatively over time. Each stage of education deepens students’ knowledge, skills, and independence in line with their starting points, cognitive profiles, and aspirations.
From the moment students join in Key Stage 3, their curriculum focuses on developing core communication, literacy, numeracy, and self-regulation skills within a safe, structured environment.
As students move into Key Stage 4, learning becomes increasingly functional and applied, linking academic concepts with real-life experiences such as enterprise, travel training, and community engagement.
By Key Stage 5, the emphasis shifts towards preparation for life beyond school- consolidating prior learning through accredited qualifications, work-based learning, volunteering, and independent living experiences. Each pathway is therefore designed to be both linear and adaptive: learners revisit and master key concepts at greater depth and independence over time, supported by continuous assessment through EHCP outcomes, My Future Life Plans, and PfA frameworks. This progressive structure enables every student, regardless of need or starting point, to make measurable and meaningful progress towards adulthood, employment, and community participation.
Classes following Pathway 1
Customs House, London City, Maritime
Classes following Pathway 2
Canning Town, Charlton, Eltham Palace, Falconwood, Greenwich Park, Shooters Hill, St James’s Park, West Silvertown, Westcombe Park
Classes following Pathway 3
Canary Wharf, Cutty Sark,
Greenwich, O2, Royal Dock, Woolwich
Classes following Pathway 4
Abbey Wood, Canada Water, Maze Hill, Mudchute, Plumstead
Classes following Pathway 5
Island Gardens, Woolwich Arsenal
In post 16 our curriculum focuses on 4 key areas: Education, Training and Employment, Friendships, Relationships and community, Independence, and Health.