“Inclusion is at the forefront of everything we do”
In September 2023, Leominster Primary School launched a dedicated new provision for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who have an Educational, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). Building on this, a second hub was introduced in September 2024. The school takes pride in offering 16 places for children with a primary autism diagnosis, spanning Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2. These children require a tailored learning environment and curriculum to support their progress. We work collaboratively with a range of outside agencies such as Speech and Language Therapists (SALT), Educational Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and Behavioural Therapists to ensure high quality provision is in place.
Currently, we have two specialised classes – Acorns and Oaks – each led by dedicated, highly trained teachers, experienced in supporting autistic children. Both teachers are supported by passionate, skilled SEN Teaching assistants who consistently go the extra mile to help pupils succeed. The children benefit from working with specialist teachers who design and deliver personalised, inclusive curriculum tailored to their individual needs.
Children have regular access to movement and sensory breaks which take place in our sensory room and in our own fenced outside space.
ACORNS CLASS
Children in Acorns Class follow a combined Sensory and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, utilising the Engagement Model and Birth to Five frameworks to evaluate their engagement and interactions. Daily routines focus on developing fine and gross motor skills, promoting intensive interaction, enjoying food sessions, and working towards specific EHCP goals. Each child receives a structured, personalised timetable that caters to their unique needs and aims to help progress comfortably within the curriculum at an appropriate level. The classroom is set up with minimum but functional equipments and resources readily available to minimise distractions, therefore allowing all the children to focus on their learning and to more easily follow our routines. A very structured timetable is followed and repeated daily to reduce anxiety. The classroom has its own sensory room accessible throughout the day to allow children to regulate their emotions when they are feeling overwhelmed.
OAKS CLASS
Oaks Class aligns with the National Curriculum supporting children in making smooth and confident transitions to mainstream education. To do so, children are expected to access mainstream learning and generally work within age-related expectations and benefit from interactions with their peers. They also have access to mainstream playgrounds, where they are encouraged to play and socialise alongside other children. Mornings are dedicated to core subjects such as Phonics, English, and Maths, while the afternoons provide opportunities to explore a range of national curriculum topics and sensory activities tailored specifically to each child’s needs. For around 50% of the day children join their mainstream classroom where they are supported to join in with national curriculum lessons with their peers. These lessons will be dependent on each child’s special interests and strengths
OUR APPROACHES
To effectively support children with Autism, our Autism Bases incorporate a variety of proven approaches integrated throughout the school day. These include:
In addition to these instructional methods, our Autism Bases provide a range of enriching activities designed to enhance social, emotional, physical, and mental well-being. These activities include trips to outdoor adventure trails, swimming sessions, horse riding, soft play visits, and regular sessions with a music specialist. Pupils are also encouraged to engage with and explore their local community, fostering confidence and social skills in real-world settings.
ADMISSION TO THE BASE
Children can only access our base if they have both a diagnosis of Autism and an EHCP. Admission to the Base is decided by the Local Authority SEND Panel followed by consultation with the school and child meeting our compatibility criteria. Please feel free to contact the school via phone and/ or email regarding any questions you may have.
OUR DEDICATED and CARING STAFF
Mrs. H. Lynch and Mrs. H. Rees : Headteachers
Miss H. Lloyd : Oaks Class Teacher (Monday - Thursday)
Mrs. N. Martin : Oaks Class Teacher (Friday)
Miss K. Bramwell: Acorns Class Teacher
Mrs. A. Liddall : PPA Class Teacher Cover and ASD School Mentor
Teaching Assistants
Mrs. M. Manning Mrs. C. Hill Mrs. K. Jordan Mrs. A. Liddall
Miss J. Powis Mrs. A. White Miss R. Powell
Miss C. Milner Mrs. L. Davies Miss N. Synytsia
