Purpose

The Hive is designed to:

• Provide a structured learning space where pupils receive targeted support to engage with the curriculum.

• Develop independence, social skills, and confidence in a supportive environment.

• Support children with emotional regulation, ensuring they feel safe and able to engage with learning.

• Act as a stepping stone for reintegration, helping pupils gradually transition back into their main classrooms.

The Hive is not:

• A space for removing children from class due to behaviour.
• A long-term alternative to mainstream education.
• A free-play area without structure or expectations.
• A ‘drop-in’ space.

By providing the right support at the right time, The Hive helps reduce anxiety, prevent disengagement, and promote long-term success in mainstream education.

How Does it Work?

Staffing and supervision

• The Hive is overseen by a designated lead staff member and supported by trained Teaching Assistants (TAs).
• Activities are staff-led and structured, ensuring children remain engaged and supported in their learning.
• Pupils accessing The Hive remain the responsibility of their class teachers for overall progress.

Daily routine and structure

• Each child follows a visual timetable outlining their daily routine and transitions between The Hive and their classroom.
• The day begins with a calm and structured start, reviewing expectations and planned activities.
• Pupils take part in a variety of pre-planned activities, including:
  • Literacy and numeracy tasks.
  • Sensory experiences and emotional regulation activities.
  • Creative projects, puzzles, and problem-solving tasks.
  • Social skills development and peer interactions.
• Structured breaks and movement activities may be included as needed.

Behaviour and Expectations

The Hive is a structured learning space, and all pupils are expected to:

• Follow their visual timetable and take part in planned activities.
• Use calm communication and listen to staff instructions.
• Respect others and share space positively.
• Try their best to engage with learning and social activities.

To support positive engagement, we use:

• Clear expectations and visual supports to reinforce rules.
• Reward charts to celebrate effort and progress.
• Social stories, timers, and structured choices to help with transitions.
• Outdoor learning opportunities (e.g., woodland, gardening, or sport) as part of some pupils’ routines.

If a pupil is struggling, staff will:

• Offer structured choices to redirect them to an alternative task.
• Provide calm support and sensory breaks where needed.
• Work with parents and class teachers to adjust strategies for success.

Reintegration

One of The Hive’s key aims is to help children successfully reintegrate into their classrooms when they are ready.

Reintegration is different for every child and may look like:

• Attending some lessons in class with support.
• Gradually increasing time spent in the classroom over weeks or months.
• Practising specific skills in The Hive before using them in a classroom setting.

How will we communicate with you?

Strong home-school communication is essential to your child’s success. Here’s how we’ll keep you informed:

Regular updates on your child’s progress, including positive achievements.

• Termly review meetings with the SENCO and Hive staff to assess progress and next steps.
• A dedicated website page for The Hive, sharing insights and updates.
• A ‘Hive Highlights’ board in school showcasing pupil achievements.
• Personal logbooks for each child to celebrate success and track learning goals.