Background

Seventeen schools in Hertfordshire have gone or are going through the Autism Accreditation process. That means that 81% of special educational needs (SEN) schools in the county are part of the accreditation community. This includes primary and secondary schools.

What we did

In 2014, Hertfordshire completed a review of its autism provision, looking at how the county could better meet the needs of its 3,500 autistic children and young people. This report included work with parents, schools and other services.

There was also a very strong parental voice in Hertfordshire and the county wanted to help build the trust with this parent forum supported by the review and development of service through the creation of a quality assurance programme led by the National Autistic Society

Outcome

Celebrating current practice and plan for the future 
Greenside School in Herts said, "The review process was supportive. It increased staff confidence, as the team undertaking observations and interviews with students and parents, recognised many strengths and it provided tangible recommendations for development. The feedback supported staff in evaluating their teaching practice and informed the leadership team of future training and whole school development. The team that visited us really understood our provision." 

Specialised autism knowledge 
As a result of accreditation, we have reviewed all policies relating to teaching and learning, reflecting on the needs and specific arrangements for autistic pupils. We've reviewed training and established a rigorous programme for all staff relating to autism. We have used the feedback from the accreditation process and report to review and develop specialist provision. 

Reduction in out of county placements. 
The county has now seen a reduction in out-of-area referrals. Additionally they have also used the accreditation mark 
as evidence at tribunal of good autism practice in non-ASD specific schools. 

Reassurance for families and carers 
The accreditation was welcomed by parents and therefore increased their confidence in us as a school. In joining accreditation, parents felt we were responding to and celebrating the needs of their child.