Primary Reconnection Programme

The Primary Reconnection Programme supports children aged 7–11 who are finding it difficult to access mainstream primary education due to anxiety, SEMH needs, ASD, or emotional barriers to learning.

At Riverway, learning is reintroduced through our ‘Pathways’ approach, providing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment where children can reconnect with education, rebuild confidence, and prepare for a successful return to school.

Supporting Young Learners

Gently guiding them back to learning through our caring ‘Pathways’ approach at Riverway.

Programme Aims

  • Reconnect children with learning in a positive and meaningful way
  • Build confidence, emotional regulation, and resilience
  • Develop primary English and Maths through practical, applied learning
  • Re-establish routines and expectations aligned with a school day
  • Prepare children for a supported reintegration into mainstream or specialist education

How the Programme Works

  • 12 hours per week 
  • 4 sessions per week × 3 hours 
  • Delivered 1:1 or in very small groups 
  • Consistent staffing to build trust and emotional safety 
  • Relationship-led and trauma-informed practice 

Each session follows a clear and predictable structure, supporting emotional regulation while gradually increasing independence and learning expectations. 

Riverway Primary Curriculum Pathways

Primary education learning is delivered through Riverway’s four Pathways, with skills developed in a connected and meaningful way:

Discovery Pathway

The Discovery Pathway focuses on rebuilding confidence in core academic skills through real-life, applied learning.

  • English: speaking and listening, reading simple texts, writing sentences and short paragraphs
  • Maths: number, measures, time, money, and problem solving
  • Developing learning stamina and confidence in attempting tasks

Exploration Pathway

The Exploration Pathway uses outdoor learning experiences to support personal, social, emotional, and moral development. 

  • Emotional awareness and regulation 
  • Resilience, confidence, and self-esteem 
  • Social skills, teamwork, and communication 
  • Understanding boundaries, routines, and expectations 
  • Spiritual, moral, social, and cultural understanding 

Innovation Pathway – Creative & Practical Learning 

The Innovation Pathway supports creativity and flexible thinking through practical projects that build confidence, choice, and independence. 

  • Art, design, and woodwork 
  • Creative problem-solving activities 
  • Projects that promote choice, confidence, and independence 

Creation Pathway – Applied Life Skills 

The Creation Pathway brings learning to life by applying literacy and numeracy through real-world activities. 

  • Literacy and numeracy through cooking and practical tasks 
  • Measuring, sequencing, reading, and writing for purpose 
  • Developing independence, responsibility, and confidence 

Reconnection & Reintegration Focus

The Primary Reconnection Programme is a time-limited intervention, typically delivered over 12 weeks, with a clear focus on next steps. 

Close communication is maintained with parents/carers, schools, and local authorities to support a smooth and planned reintegration. 

Referrals

Placements are typically arranged through Local Authorities, schools, and SEN teams. Please Contact Us to discuss suitability, availability, or to request further information.