Type of service: Assessment, Day schools, Schools, Respite and short breaks

The Autism Resourced Provision (ARP) at Whitmore Primary School provides education for ten children with a statement of autism within a mainstream setting. To access this provision a child must have a diagnosis of autism and show evidence of being able to benefit from a mainstream environment (they must show an interest in communicating and interacting with others). The ARP aspires to provide children with autism access to high quality learning experiences and to ensure inclusion in a mainstream environment (Whitmore Primary School, 2001). It also aims to allow each child to develop the highest level of autonomy by offering a broad and balanced curriculum while developing communication and social skills essential for effective successful functioning in society. The ARP values parental input and aims to support parents in all aspects of the children's lives. All of the children in the ARP are members of a mainstream class, and they join this class for lessons when the activities and tasks are meaningful and the child can positively achieve. When children are not able to access mainstream lessons the ARP provides differentiated activities for individuals as well as group sessions. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils. Parents often come and volunteer and people look for experience in working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Aimed at: Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements