Type of service: Day schools, Schools

The name of the Special Resource Provision (SRP) for pupils with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is The Beehive. Ruskin Junior School is a mainstream school with 'special resourced provision' for children with social and communication difficulties (mainly autism). There are normally 6 children (although 9 at present) and they are in all 4 year groups. Although we have a 'unit base' known as The Beehive all the children are fully integrated into their mainstream classes as far as possible and with support from experienced adults. 'Special' groups are run where necessary but these may also be made up of other children from throughout the school. In addition to the mainstream curriculum the children benefit from weekly speech therapy, Beehive swimming, Beehive Physical Education (PE), Brain Gym, life skills and social snack time. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. We welcome visitors, and have had students on work experience with an interest in autism. Volunteers to help will always be considered. In addition the school now hosts an Autism Advisory and Outreach Service which supports all Swindon Borough Schools. Professional lead for this service is Jenny Muirhead.

Aimed at: Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements