Supporting Lower Secondary Learners - ages 11-14

Gaia Learning is a brilliant fit for lower secondary learners aged 11–14 who need something different from traditional school. Our online learning alternative provision is designed around neurodivergent and SEND students, including autistic, ADHD, PDA, anxious and school-refusing young people.

We offer calm, structured live lessons in small groups and 1:1, with clear routines, movement breaks and multi-sensory resources to keep learners engaged without overwhelm. At KS3 we focus on building strong foundations in core subjects, study skills and confidence, so that students are ready for GCSEs and future pathways. With personalised learning plans and close communication with families and schools, Gaia Learning helps 11–14 year olds stay connected to education in a way that feels safe, manageable and genuinely supportive.

At Gaia Learning we use the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum as a backbone, but we customise and adapt it into our own spiral curriculum model. This means:

• Lessons are differentiated by design, so learners can be challenged and supported at the right level for them, no matter their starting point.
• Projects and activities give opportunities to make real-world connections and to incorporate learners’ own interests, keeping learning relevant and meaningful.

Modern Studies

Our Modern Studies course blends politics, democracy, human rights, ethics, and current affairs with elements of history, geography, and philosophy. Learners explore live and recent issues, learning how societies work and how decisions are made at local, national, and global levels. This interdisciplinary approach develops critical thinking, debate, and research skills, and gives learners a taste of different subjects to help inform their choices for upper secondary.
Based on the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum, customised for Gaia learners through learner-first methodology and project work.

Computing & Digital Literacy

Learners build practical digital skills alongside an understanding of how technology shapes our world. From coding and algorithms to safe, creative use of online tools, lessons cover programming basics, data handling, digital communication, and online safety. Learners gain confidence as both creators and users of technology.
 Draws on the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum, adapted to be flexible, engaging, and relevant for Gaia learners.

Global Perspectives & Climate Action

Global Perspectives is a Cambridge International subject, focusing on critical global challenges such as inequality, climate change, and sustainability. Learners develop skills in research, analysis, collaboration, and evaluation while tackling real-world problems.

As a certified climate action school with Take Action Global, we also run Climate Action projects in collaboration with schools worldwide. Our learners have worked with peers in Ireland and Sierra Leone to compare how individuals, communities, and global citizens can take meaningful action.
Based on Cambridge’s framework, enriched by Gaia’s focus on international collaboration and real-world impact.

Arts

Our Arts programme is based on the Cambridge Lower Secondary Art & Design curriculum, but with the breadth to expand into whatever areas learners show passion for. This might include performing arts, fine arts, digital arts, film and photography, fashion, or more traditional art and design. Projects are flexible and learner-led, encouraging creativity and self-expression across a wide range of artistic fields.

Maths

Our Maths curriculum follows the Cambridge Lower Secondary framework as a backbone, but is reimagined within our Gaia spiral model. Learners revisit each strand of maths across a three-year cycle, so they can join at any point and build their knowledge without missing key content. Activities are differentiated, allowing every learner — whether consolidating fundamentals or stretching into advanced problem-solving — to progress together.
Projects offer opportunities to apply maths to real-world contexts and personal interests, from budgeting to design challenges. To support understanding we include activities that use online manipulatives, interactive tools, and simulations.

Science

Science at Gaia follows the Cambridge Lower Secondary framework, reshaped into our spiral curriculum. Learners cycle through biology, chemistry, and physics each year, revisiting key concepts with increasing depth. This ensures smooth progression no matter where learners join.

Lessons are interactive and collaborative, often using virtual experiments, simulations, and online demonstrations to explore scientific ideas. Where safe and appropriate, we also suggest simple “kitchen table” science experiments (with guardian permission). Projects give opportunities for learners to make connections to the real world and bring in their own interests, while differentiated activities ensure everyone can access, stretch, and succeed together.

English

English at Gaia is based on the Cambridge Lower Secondary framework, but reshaped into our three-year spiral model. Learners cycle through reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills each year, ensuring continuity and progress regardless of their starting point.

Every class is differentiated: some learners focus on building confidence in core literacy, while others are stretched to analyse complex texts or craft advanced writing. Projects include opportunities to make connections between classic and modern texts, learners’ own interests, and the wider world. This makes English both accessible and engaging for all learners.