Welcome to Bay Tree Class at Oaklands School. We opened our doors in March 2026 and are proud to be a new addition to the Oaklands family.

Our dedicated and nurturing team comprises Laura Brown (Class Lead) and Teaching Assistants Dannielle Thompson and Ellie May Annett-Wooldridge. Together, we work to create a supportive and positive learning environment where every child feels safe, valued and ready to learn.

In Bay Tree, we specialise in language and communication-based learning and recognise that every child learns differently. Our approach focuses on supporting communication, independence, and emotional well-being through a structured, supportive environment.

We use a range of strategies to support learning, including visual supports, Makaton, clear routines, and structured work systems. These approaches help pupils understand expectations, build confidence and develop independence in their learning. We also place a strong emphasis on developing social skills, emotional regulation and independence, helping pupils to build the foundations they need for future learning.

We use the TEACCH approach to support structured learning and independence. Our classroom routines and learning environments are thoughtfully organised to meet the individual needs of our pupils and provide a calm, supportive space for learning.

Our curriculum is based on the Foundation Stage Early Learning Goals and is carefully adapted to meet the individual needs of our pupils. We plan learning opportunities around each child’s strengths, interests and developmental stage to support them in reaching their full potential.

Reading and storytelling play an important role in life in Bay Tree. Throughout the year, we explore a variety of books that link to our topics and help support the development of language and communication skills. We regularly adapt our book choices to reflect the interests and needs of the pupils, so our collection of stories continues to grow.

 

A Typical Day in Bay Tree

 

​Structure and routine are very important for our pupils. A typical day in Bay Tree follows a predictable routine which helps children feel safe, confident and ready to learn.

Our day may include:

• Morning Welcome: Pupils arrive and settle into the classroom with familiar routines and visual timetables to support the start of the day.

• Group Time: A short session focusing on communication, listening skills, songs, stories or topic discussions.

• Adult-Led Learning: Small group or individual activities focusing on key learning areas such as communication, early maths, fine motor skills and early literacy.

• Snack and Social Time: Pupils practise independence skills such as choosing, requesting and social interaction with peers.

• Story Time: Sharing a story together to develop listening, language and enjoyment of books.

• Outdoor Learning: Time to explore and develop gross motor skills through outdoor play, Art and early maths and literacy activities.

• Lunch Time: Pupils practise independence skills such as choosing, requesting, and interacting with peers.

• Group Relaxation Time: To support pupils' regulation and well-being.

• Continuous Provision and Play: Opportunities for pupils to explore different areas of the classroom through structured play and sensory experiences.

• Home Time Routine: A calm and structured end to the day to prepare pupils for the transition home.​