Helen Allison School

The school is committed to a holistic, transdisciplinary approach that prioritizes the quality of life, self-confidence, and independence of every student. It operates on the core values of embracing individuality, maintaining a 'can do' approach, and providing an environment that matches individual learning needs. The school follows the SPELL philosophy, ensuring that all students are understood, supported, and appreciated as unique individuals.

The school delivers a personalized curriculum that follows the National Curriculum as closely as possible while being highly differentiated to meet individual needs. The academic programme spans Primary, Middle, Secondary, and Post-16 stages, with subjects including English, Maths, Science, PSHE, RE, Creative Arts, and Food Technology. Learning is structured through the 'HAS Steps for Learning' framework, with small class sizes that are matched by ability and peer relationships.

The school aims for students to achieve their full potential, with progress measured by EHCP outcomes, improved self-regulation, and increased social communication skills. Students work toward a range of qualifications, from entry-level literacy and numeracy to A levels and other Level 3 qualifications. The ultimate goal is for students to leave with the independent living skills or external accreditations necessary to pursue their chosen pathways.

The school employs a transdisciplinary team of on-site professionals, including clinical psychologists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists, who work alongside teaching staff to provide bespoke interventions. Support is embedded into the daily curriculum and includes sensory diets, Therapeutic Listening®, and individual support plans. All staff receive comprehensive training in autism-specific approaches, including SPELL and Studio 3 low-arousal behaviour management.

The school admits students from Year 1 to Year 14 who hold an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) with a primary diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Prospective families should contact their local authority to indicate a preference for the school and are encouraged to contact the school directly for an initial conversation or to attend a parent visit afternoon, which is held once per term. Students can be admitted at any point throughout the year.

The school operates on a standard three-term academic year, typically running from September to July. The school day generally runs from 8:50am to 3:00pm, with specific hub timings from 9:00am to 3:10pm. Detailed calendars including term dates, staff training days, and holidays are available for download via the school website.

The school operates across two sites, with facilities specifically designed to support students on the autism spectrum. On-site resources include dedicated departments for psychology, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. The campus is equipped to support a range of specialist activities, including food technology and creative arts, and provides environments tailored to individual sensory and learning needs.

The school offers a variety of activities designed to support personal development and engagement, including Creative Arts, work experience placements, and community-based learning. Specialist interventions and activities include Lego Therapy, Rebound Therapy, sensory circuits, a schools massage programme, and social communication groups. Students also participate in broader enrichment opportunities such as skiing, book day celebrations, and various off-site trips.