Expressive Arts

Art

Art at Nexus SEND School is a vibrant, inclusive and nurturing experience where every pupil can succeed. In our calm, welcoming art room – a safe space for many – pupils with complex needs, including ASD, PMLD and SEMH, are supported to explore, create and express who they are. Art is deeply cross-curricular, developing fine motor skills essential for writing, hand–eye coordination, spatial awareness and control, while creative characters and visual storytelling support learning in English. Measuring, scale, shape, colour and pattern link directly to maths, science and physical development, making learning meaningful and accessible. 

Through drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, sensory play and a wide range of printing processes such as mono, block and screen printing, pupils make progress across our key target areas: cognition and learning, sensory and physical development, communication and interaction, independence, and social and emotional wellbeing. Lessons promote confidence, self-esteem, socialising and collaboration across different ages, while celebrating individuality and personal achievement. Educational trips, competition success and the incredible quality of work produced reinforce the value of art as a powerful tool for joy, belonging and life skills. As the art teacher, I take great pride in the art room and believe wholeheartedly in our students and their ability to thrive. 

Drama

Drama sessions at Nexus provide a structured, creative, and inclusive learning environment in which children and young people are supported to explore storytelling, characterisation, movement, music, and performance in ways that are purposeful and meaningful to them. Through role play, drama-based activities, music, digital technologies, and planned performance opportunities, pupils develop communication skills, self-confidence, creativity, and essential life skills. Sessions are carefully differentiated to meet the needs of both verbal and non-verbal pupils, employing multi-sensory strategies and alternative and augmentative communication methods to ensure full participation and self-expression for all learners. 

Regular ‘Boogie Woogie’ sessions support pupils in regulating their emotions and preparing for learning, while collaborative creative projects promote self-esteem, positive relationships, and emotional resilience. Pupils work progressively towards performances both within the school and in the wider community, fostering independence, pride, and a sense of achievement. In addition, the school’s award-winning dance and performance team leads Choir sessions, modelling positive behaviours and working collaboratively to inspire confidence, creativity, and teamwork across the school community. 

Drama provides a safe and supportive space in which pupils feel valued, heard, and empowered to express their individuality. As a result, pupils demonstrate measurable progress from their individual starting points in communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and confidence, contributing positively to school life and engagement within the wider community.