Type of service: Assessment, Day schools, Residential schools, Schools

The Percy Hedley lower and upper schools provide education, therapy and care for a population of students who have specific speech and language difficulties or communication difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Students with a diagnosis of ASD are placed within small class groups (usually of 6-10) alongside those with specific language difficulties. Each class is staffed by a specialist teacher and a number of support staff dependent on the needs of the students. Some students have 1:1 support although the school ethos is for all students to be able to work within a small group as independently as possible. Each class group is supported by a speech and language therapist, occupational therapist and physiotherapist as appropriate. Therapists work within the class group as well as offering individual and small group work. There is access to an on site educational psychology service. The schools follow a broad and balanced curriculum that includes the National Curriculum as appropriate. At secondary level, there are opportunities for students to follow accredited courses and GCSE courses where appropriate. Across the school, there is a strong emphasis on developing social skills, life skills and functional communication skills in order to achieve maximum independence. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. Respite services are just for their own pupils. The school also offers a paediatrician's weekly clinic.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Generic