Academic Subject Learning & Life Learning

At Longcause, pupils make progress in two equally important areas: Academic Subject Learning and Life Learning. Together, these build towards our long-term aim: enabling our pupils to lead fulfilling lives now and in the future – Longcause Learning For Life.

Academic Subject Learning is the knowledge and skills pupils develop within subjects such as English, maths, science, RE and the wider curriculum. For some pupils, this begins at the earliest stages through the EYFS and Explorers pathways, where they experience the foundations of communication, early thinking and first engagement with subject concepts. As pupils develop and progress, this learning becomes increasingly structured, personalised and sequenced so that our  learners can access and enjoy success in each subject area.

Life Learning is the learning that happens beyond subjects. It includes attention skills, engagement, communication and interdependence, as well as emotional and sensory regulation, resilience, relationships, problem-solving, independence, and understanding themselves and others. Life Learning is embedded throughout the school day – in routines, transitions, play, community experiences and interactions – because these skills underpin every part of our pupils’ lives now and in adulthood.

These two types of learning work together. As pupils grow in confidence, regulation and independence through Life Learning, their Academic Subject Learning becomes more meaningful and secure. Likewise, the knowledge gained through Academic Subject Learning enriches how they make sense of the world and navigate daily life.

Both forms of learning are celebrated equally at Longcause because, together, they shape the whole-child progress that prepares our pupils for fulfilling, connected and purposeful lives – today, and in the years ahead.

Have a look below to see what your child is learning this term: