Care and support

Curriculum and children with autistic spectrum disorders

In devising the curriculum, account has been taken of recent research literature in the educational needs of children with autistic spectrum disorders.

All children will have access to a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum, including the National Curriculum appropriately modified and differentiated for each child. Priority is given to language development, social interaction and the explicit teaching of appropriate social behaviour and life skills. Staff promote an atmosphere of trust and high expectations, from their detailed knowledge of each child in their care, gained through assessment and careful observation.

• Each day there is at least one period of sustained physical activity - there is clear evidence that this can reduce anxiety in children with autism and thereby reduce behaviour difficulties.
• There is training in imitation and observational skills and opportunities are given to practice these skills in real life contexts. Use may be made of video to help children reflect on what they do.
• There is a clear structure to minimise stress and promote learning.
• Children receive direct one-to-one teaching each day.
• Children are taught the necessary skills to enable them to integrate with their peers in the main part of the school.
• Children are given opportunities for learning to learn.
• Children are given opportunities for independent and group
  learning experiences.
• Children’s strengths are promoted to maximise their learning potential and their difficulties addressed.

Pupils will have an individualised educational programme, in line with their Statement of Special Educational Needs, which will detail:

• the short term learning objectives for the pupil
• the steps towards integration into the school .....
• ...including a planned programme of integration indicating the level of support to be provided by the staff of the Autism Base

The programme will be reviewed at least termly, with a full review of the Statement taking place annually.