Profound and Multiple Learning Needs (PMLD) Pathway
Classes following Pathway 5 – Island Gardens, Woolwich Arsenal
Pathway 5 offers a highly personalised, therapy-led curriculum where progression is developmental and focused on engagement, communication, and quality of life.
In Key Stage 3, students develop awareness and engagement through routine, sensory interaction, and relationship-building.
In Key Stage 4, learning deepens through structured anticipation, cause-and-effect exploration, and responsive communication programmes.
In Key Stage 5, progression centres on choice-making, self-expression, and participation in daily and community life.
Curriculum Pathway 5: Key Stage Mapping Table
Learning for Students with Profound and Multiple Learning Needs (PMLD)
The Pathway 5 curriculum at Charlton Park Academy is highly personalised to meet the unique needs of students with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). Every aspect of learning is carefully designed around the individual child, ensuring that education is meaningful, enjoyable, and built on consistent routines, trusted relationships, and sensory experiences.
Our curriculum is shaped by the Golden Thread, which connects each student’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes with their daily learning. This means that every lesson and activity links directly to your child’s four areas of need:
- Communication and Interaction
- Cognition and Learning
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health
- Sensory and Physical Development
In addition, all students’ learning is guided by the Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) outcomes:
- Employment and Work Skills – developing awareness, engagement, and participation in purposeful tasks.
- Independent Living – building early independence through routines and choice-making.
- Friends, Relationships and Community – promoting communication, social interaction, and shared experiences.
- Good Health – supporting physical, emotional, and sensory wellbeing through therapy and regulation activities.
Learning in Pathway 5 is delivered through a multi-sensory and therapeutic approach, combining sensory exploration, movement, music, and communication opportunities. Students learn through Intensive Interaction, sensory stories, and creative and physical engagement, supported by therapy teams and specialist staff.
Each student’s curriculum is individually planned and reviewed regularly by teachers, therapists, and families. This ensures that every learner’s progress – whether in communication, regulation, awareness, or physical ability – is recognised, celebrated, and used to plan the next steps in their development.
At Charlton Park Academy, we believe every small step represents a significant achievement. The Pathway 5 curriculum ensures that every student is seen, valued, and supported to live a happy, meaningful life both in school and beyond.