Our Curriculum
What does learning look like at Penmaenrhos?
At KS3, learning at Ysgol Penmaenrhos PRU is built around re -engagement, confidence building, and preparing learners for successful next steps. Our approach combines the Curriculum for Wales, the King’s Trust Achieve Programme , and strong pastoral support to ensure that every young person experiences meaningful progress—both academically and personally.
A Curriculum Designed for Engagement and Growth - Curriculum for Wales at KS3 Learning is shaped by the Curriculum for Wales, which provides a broad and balanced programme across all Areas of Learning and Experience. It aims to develop the Four Purposes so that pupils grow into:
- Ambitious, capable learners
- Healthy, confident individuals
- Ethical, informed citizens
- Enterprising, creative contributors
The curriculum structures learning so pupils develop key skills—literacy, numeracy, digital competence, problem-solving, emotional awareness—through practical, purposeful experiences that meet individual needs.
The King’s Trust Achieve Programme at KS3
KS3 learners also take part in the King’s Trust Achieve Programme, a flexible, skill-building curriculum designed to improve confidence, teamwork, communication and readiness for future pathways.
The King’s Trust describes its education offer as adaptable, accessible and suitable for a wide range of settings, providing educators with high-quality teaching resources and structured activities for developing life skills. [cadw.gov.wales]
Key features of the Achieve Programme include:
- Communication, teamwork and enterprise activities
- Digital skills, personal project work, and financial health learning
- Real-life scenarios and practical tasks designed to build independence
- Clear routes to recognised qualifications through The King’s Trust in Wales [kingstrust.org.uk]
- Learners often report boosts in confidence, improved engagement, and stronger preparation for next-step pathways—reflected in case studies from the King’s Trust Education Hub. [cadw.gov.wales]
Supportive, Consistent Environment
KS3 pupils learn in small groups with consistent staffing and clear routines, helping them feel safe, understood and ready to engage.
- Personalised & Practical Learning
- Lessons are adapted to individual needs and frequently include:
- Project-based learning
- Outdoor and community-based activities
- Digital media, ICT and creative tasks
- Hands-on, practical experiences
- Opportunities to explore interests and build strengths
Wellbeing at the Centre
Daily wellbeing routines and restorative practices help learners build emotional literacy, self-regulation and resilience. Strong relationships between staff and learners underpin positive engagement.
Skills for Life and the Future
Through the Curriculum for Wales and King’s Trust partnership, pupils develop:
- Confidence and communication
- Independence and resilience
- Digital and practical skills
- Problem-solving and creativity
- Aspirations for their next steps in education, training or employment
- Our Commitment to KS3 Learners and Families
Families can expect:
- Regular communication about progress
- Staff who know each learner well and provide personalised support
- A curriculum that balances academic learning with life -skills development
- Opportunities for learners to gain meaningful accreditation and build future readiness