Type of service: Day schools, Schools

Formerly known as Arnold Middle School. Chiltern Class is a specialist provision for children with autism opened in January 1999. The provision provides education for six children of middle school age (9-13 years old) and is staffed by a teacher and two nursery nurses, who are experienced in the needs of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Pupils will have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) which will clearly identify that they have a disorder on the autism spectrum as their prime need. All children will be assessed for their suitability against identified criteria. A panel of professionals will consider possible candidates for Chiltern Class. The purpose built classroom, within the school grounds, is self-contained. The large classroom area has been divided by furniture into clear visual areas, providing the physical structure of specialist TEACCH provision. All the pupils are following the National Curriculum programmes of study for both core and foundation subjects. Positive links have been made with the main school. The staff and pupils at Arnold are welcoming and supportive; they are very sensitive to the needs of children in Chiltern Class. Integration is gradual and progressive, thus enabling the children to begin to develop relationships and make the experience positive and successful for both groups. The staff in Chiltern Class aim to provide a balanced and meaningful education for all pupils in a happy, secure and structured environment.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements