Type of service: Day schools, Nursery and pre-schools, Respite and short breaks, Schools

Website: http://www.fordwater.w-sussex.sch.uk

We are a school for pupils aged 2-19 years who have severe learning difficulties (SLD). Approximately 40 per cent of our pupils have autism and while many are in classes in the main body of the school, we have three specialist classes; there is an early intervention class and two further classes for KS2 and KS3/4 pupils with autism, who require a more structured environment and teaching approach. In the specialist classes there is a high staff ratio, a carefully structured environment with clear visual clues and designated areas for different activities. The Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped Children (TEACCH) approach is used, with visual timetables and an environment free from sensory distractions. The emphasis is on enabling communication at all times and there is a close liaison with speech and language therapists, PECS is used alongside other communication aids such as switches. These approaches are used across the school where appropriate. We have specialist sensory rooms such as a playbarn, soft play, dark and white rooms where pupils can carry our curriculum work, develop turn-taking skills and staff can encourage communication through intensive interaction. The focus for our pupils with autism is on developing social communication, social interaction and social imagination skills which will help them understand and cope with everyday situations. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Gender: All genders

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability