In September 2024, Germander Park opened a Unit for children with Autistic Spectrum Condition.  We currently have spaces for 8 children, but will have 16 children soon.

In each school, there is an environment designed to engage and challenge children with a range of abilities, including children who are pre-verbal or have a limited vocabulary. Staff support children through a ‘total’ communication approach, including sign language, gesture, written words, facial expressions and speech.

Learning is adapted to challenge the children from their starting points. They are supported through suitable concrete and visual resources by staff who have experience of assisting children with ASC. Normally this is facilitated through 1:1 learning opportunities and continuous provision available to them within the environment.

The children, where appropriate, have opportunities to socialise with other children in the school during break and lunch time and at Southwood, our KS2 children are offered specialist support children through the ‘LAB’ at set times during the week. There are regular circle times to share personal preferences and children have also enjoyed trips to local sites, such as to Linford Wood and the Cinema.

The children’s sensory needs are catered for through a calm, caring environment. The schools offer a range of ‘cause and effect’ toys to stimulate interest and extend their engagement. All staff are aware of their individual needs within their ‘one-page profiles’ to ensure the children are supported appropriately.

The ‘Mallards’ provision provides a bespoke curriculum. Where possible, the children will be given an opportunity to access the same curriculum as their peers. Through the day, they will access daily input for reading, writing and maths. However, as these children have unique starting points, specific to them, their curriculum will also be adapted. They will also follow a life-skills curriculum, that will include learning opportunites about how they can stay safe and build independence. 

How will school support a child who has been identified as having a need for Speech and Language support?

• Speech and Language Therapist advice is implemented by teaching staff.
• Speech therapy (individual or group work) can be delivered by support staff following speech therapist advice.
• Lanyards with visuals are worn by all staff working with children with additional speech and language needs, to aid communication

How will school support a child who has been identified as having a need for OT Support, or support with physical needs?

• Children in Mallards and Ducklings have daily Sensory Circuits in the school halls, which enable physical development .
• PE interventions are also carried out by the Sports Coach when needed, to develop an identified skill.
• At Germander Park, children access the soft play area for daily physical development (and children from Southwood visit this periodically too).
• Specific physical development needs for individuals will be delivered according to OT advice, where necessary.
• Individual children will be supported by Occupational Therapy according to need.