Type of service: Day schools, Outreach - education, Schools

Website: http://www.castledon.essex.sch.uk

Castledon School caters for pupils with moderate and complex learning difficulties in the age range 4-16 years. All students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are included fully in age appropriate classes. All staff have received training in strategies to support the learning of pupils with ASD. We use Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped CHildren (TEACCH) principles and classes use schedules, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and visual teaching aids. In our Key Stage 1 (KS1) class communication is given the highest priority and planning across the curriculum reflects this. For pupils we offer a programme of life skills and in year 9 and above work related learning to prepare them adequately for independent living and their future employment. We have links with colleges and employers. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. The staffing ratio reflects the needs of the individual classes. It is on average 1:4 primary and 1:5/7 secondary. Other interventions, approaches and programmes offered by the school are I Am Special, small group work, social use of language programme (SULP) and residential adventure experience. Our accredited courses meet the Foundation Learning Tier including functional, practical and vocational skills. The school provides a range of residential experiences dependant on age, after school clubs and lunchtime clubs. The school caters for oppositional defiance disorder (ODD) and cerebral palsy.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Gender: All genders

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability