The Explorers Department at Ysgol Ty Coch provides a nurturing, engaging and highly supportive learning environment for a range of learners. The department consists of eight classes: Carw, Heulwen, Pabi Coch, Glan Yr Afon, Enfys, Seren, Aderyn and Hwyaden, all working together to ensure every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential and enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Our teaching and learning are guided by the DAISY Curriculum, Ysgol Ty Coch's bespoke curriculum, which incorporates a Foundation Phase approach and recognises the importance of learning through play. We believe learners learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful, enjoyable experiences that reflect their individual interests, strengths and developmental needs.

Within Explorers, pupils access learning through the Non-maintained Nursery Curriculum (DAISY), focusing on the areas of Belonging, Communication, Exploration, Physical Development and Well-being. These areas are carefully linked to the Areas of Learning and Experience (AoLEs) to provide broad, balanced and purposeful learning opportunities. Pupils develop their skills through a combination of play-based learning, continuous and enhanced provision, outdoor learning experiences, and structured one-to-one and small group activities.

A central focus within the department is Total Communication. We are committed to ensuring that every pupil develops an effective and functional means of communication to express their wants, needs, thoughts and feelings. The department makes extensive use of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) alongside a range of communication approaches tailored to individual learners. By providing consistent communication support across all environments, we help pupils develop confidence, independence and meaningful connections with others.

Pupils also participate in regular Attention Autism sessions, which use exciting and engaging activities to capture attention, develop shared focus and encourage communication. These highly motivating sessions help pupils engage in learning, develop interaction skills and experience success in a fun and supportive environment.

We work closely with a wide range of professionals and external agencies, including therapists, health professionals and specialist support services, to provide a truly multidisciplinary approach. This collaborative working enables us to meet the individual needs of our pupils and support the best possible outcomes for every child.

We are passionate about extending learning beyond the classroom. Pupils regularly access the local community and take part in a wide range of enriching experiences. Through community visits, outdoor learning and practical activities, learners develop important life skills, build independence and gain experiences that enhance their overall quality of life.

Our Priorities

At the heart of the Explorers Department is a commitment to:

• Providing learners with a secure, happy and caring environment that takes account of their individual needs.
• Enabling learners to communicate effectively and functionally.
• Working closely with a range of professionals and agencies to provide a multidisciplinary approach.
• Encouraging learning through direct experiences, exploration and problem solving.
• Providing opportunities for learners to direct their own learning and make choices through enhanced and continuous provision.
• Developing each child's self-esteem, confidence and sense of achievement.
• Offering opportunities to learn about and experience Welsh culture, alongside an appreciation of other cultures.
• Encouraging learning through play, exploration and movement.
• Developing excellent home-school partnerships.
• Supporting every pupil to achieve the best possible quality of life and reach their full potential.

The Explorers Department is a place where learners are encouraged to learn, communicate, explore and thrive in a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment, laying strong foundations for their future learning and development.