Type of service: Day schools, Schools

At this time we do not have an official name for our new strategic provision but are using the name The Learning Centre. The Centre is a dual purpose building in a mainstream school, supporting pupils with special needs as well as being a strategic provision for autism in the north of Cumbria. We can accommodate up to 16 pupils with severe difficulties on the autism spectrum. Pupils with more general difficulties also receive support from the specialist knowledge and resources available. The needs of each pupil are taken into account and the extent of the time in mainstream is planned accordingly. The aim is for maximum inclusion. Currently most pupils access mainstream lessons, with support in class or in small withdrawal groups. Pupils with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) attend social and life skill lessons in our Centre, usually in year groups, where possible. Teaching Assistants (TAs) support pupils during break and lunchtime, providing help with homework and social interaction. Strong links with parents are encouraged in order to support the pupil and family. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils with a criminal records bureau (CRB) check only. The school uses the Structure, Positive (approaches and expectations), Empathy, Low arousal, Links (SPELL) framework. Another facility provided by the school is a calm room.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Learning disability