This practical and reflective session will explore how to plan, develop, and deliver a meaningful curriculum tailored to the unique needs of pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD).

Participants will consider how to:

• Create autonomy-supportive environments using consistency, repetition, and carefully scaffolded experiences.
• Stimulate curiosity and engagement in pupils with complex needs.
• Recognise and respond to learnt helplessness, overstimulation, and distraction.
• Understand what constitutes meaningful learning time.
• Support developmental progression through engagement-led assessments.
• Promote community inclusion for learners with PMLD.

This session aims to deepen understanding of the pre-formal curriculum model and support staff in enhancing provision and outcomes for some of the most complex learners.

This session is designed for professionals working with pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) who are not yet engaged in subject-specific learning. It is especially suitable for staff in specialist settings, including:

• Curriculum leads
• Teachers (including ECTs and those new to SEND)
• Support staff and teaching assistants

Presented by Storm Knight

Pre-formal Pathway Lead, Sunningdale School