Type of service: Day schools, Schools

The name of the unit for children with autism is the Designated Special Provision for Autism (DSP). The DSP unit was open in September 1996 and provides a specific group of pupils access to mainstream education. Autism/Asperger syndrome is a specific area within the special needs continuum. There is close liaison with parents and other outside agencies ensure the best possible service for all our pupils. The DSP is situated within a mainstream secondary school (1800 pupils). We have a designated room/classroom with cooking and washing up facilities. Pupils are able to participate in break/lunch time activities within the unit, creating a safe haven when needed. DSP pupils are included in all aspects of school life including year trips to theme parks and incentives/reward systems. The DSP unit also runs trips independently to encourage social interaction. Pupils are supported in all aspects of school life. Staff/pupils work towards independence depending on individual pupil needs. Support delegation is based upon individual needs of our pupils. All pupils attend weekly social skills sessions organised in the DSP. Each pupil follows a mainstream timetable appropriate to the individual, whilst under direct supervision of the support unit. The support team help pupils to understand and communicate with the world around them. The support team aim to reduce the anxiety levels of pupils where possible in order to enable the pupil to learn. The school uses the SPELL framework.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements