The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College

Wiltshire Council

Main information

Type of service: Day schools, Schools

The Pit Stop is a room within the School that supports the mainstream autism spectrum condition (ASC) and vulnerable pupils; it is available before school, break and lunchtime, and individual support lessons. It is a safe environment that promotes social interaction between a variety of students with differing needs and age ranges. It encourages students to support each other and the older students to be active role models for new and anxious students. It is a safe and nurturing place where students are supported to reach their individual potential. The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College also includes a Specialist Resourced Provision for students with autism based in the 'Silver Block'. The students based in the Silver Block are supported to access a mainstream education where appropriate. Their education is enriched by offering withdrawal sessions to develop social communication, interaction and independence skills. The students are offered sessions off timetable on a Wednesday afternoon where they can access the local community within Swindon to further develop these skills. The purpose built Silver Block can also act as a fall back when school life can cause anxiety or stress. The Silver Block has 3 rooms for withdrawal; The Loft for time out, The Sensory Environment for distraction and the Gym area to offload energy in a Physical manner. The building also has a purpose built kitchen and living area to develop skills for independent living. Silver Block students have access to 121 sessions with Keyworkers to complete homework or develop areas identified within their Statement or Education, Health Care Plan (EHCP). The ethos of the Silver Block is to build rounded young people ready for the real world; we intend to build the students' self-esteem, confidence and resilience. Students gain a place via the local authority. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils..