Type of service: Day schools, Residential schools, Schools

Rossendale School aims to help pupils with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in learning by helping them to understand their uniqueness and come to terms with it. We aim to offer each pupil access to a broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated curriculum aimed at meeting individual needs. As well as utilising experienced specialist teachers we also employ Special Support Assistants whose main task is to meet individual needs. Whilst the majority of students attend the school daily, weekly residential accommodation can be provided in 1 of 4 off site properties. All the accommodation provides structure and security, as well as offering opportunities for learning and personal development. Although in the main school a significant number of pupils are diagnosed with ASD, the Farmhouse Unit is exclusively for pupils diagnosed with high functioning autism who require very small groups (2-3) and highly individualised programmes. Within the main school the pupils with ASD are integrated into age appropriate classes. They are taught with peers with similar levels of attainment. Whilst not all of the pupils in that group may be diagnosed as having an ASD they will be diagnosed as having an emotional disorder and respond to the same stability, security, consistency and support that pupils with an ASD benefit from. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. Planned and residential respite is available for pupils who attend the school on a full-time basis.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Covers: North West

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour