Type of service: Day schools, Schools

The name of the unit for children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the Cadunfield Class. This was purpose built and brand new in March 2005. The building has a spacious classroom with dedicated, independent, 1:1 and group work areas. It has a kitchen area, quiet room, office, toilets and two external play spaces. Skills are taught in the base, rehearsed and generalised for transfer to the mainstream setting in planned integration programmes. Pupils are aged between 9 and 13 (male or female) with a maximum of six in the class. Teaching incorporates structured systems that allow pupils to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to make progress through Key Stages Two (KS2) and Three (KS3), in the base and through integrated lessons in the main school. Motivation, social awareness, self-esteem and flexibility of thought are key elements that underpin learning and success. Base staff are experienced in the field of autism and are familiar with the philosophy, principles and implementation of Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped CHildren (TEACCH). Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. About 10 pupils with ASD are in the mainstream and 6 extra statemented pupils with ASD are in the provision.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour