Orcas Class

Orcas is a specialist SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) classroom situated within the mainstream setting of Beanfield Primary School.

It is specifically designed to support pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) who present with complex learning needs. The provision offers a flexible and inclusive environment, underpinned by tailored strategies and specialist resources to meet individual needs.

The core aim of Orcas Class is to remove barriers to learning and empower pupils to thrive both academically and socially. We provide highly personalised support and high-quality, adaptable teaching approaches that cater to a wide range of learning styles and developmental needs. This includes support for children with severe or complex learning difficulties, as well as challenges related to speech, language, and social communication.

All pupils in Orcas Class follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, adapted to align with their unique developmental levels. Teaching is delivered through multisensory approaches to ensure accessibility and engagement for every child. Sessions may include one-to-one focused learning, small group work with peers at similar developmental stages, or whole-class activities.

We work collaboratively with a range of external professionals—including Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists—to ensure that each child receives the specialist input they require.

Orcas Class also serves as a transitional provision for children with EHCPs who have been identified as needing a specialist or special school placement but are awaiting a suitable setting. Our goal is to provide continuity, stability, and high-quality support during this interim period.