Education
The New Options (Higford) School provides an innovative educational package for pupils aged 8 – 19 who have autism and/or complex sensory and communication needs. The School is registered with the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCFS).
The New Options (Higford) School offers its pupils a broad and balanced curriculum that includes the National Curriculum at Key Stage 2, 3 and 4 and a vocational based curriculum for post 16. We believe the curriculum for young people with autism and complex needs must take account of their particular abilities and strengths and address their individual learning needs. This is achieved through child-centred planning, creating a personal learning programme for each individual young person. We believe the curriculum for young people with autism and/or exceptional complex needs should:
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Be determined by person-centred planning
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Give priority to developing communication, social, leisure and
independence skills
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Provide pupils with a cohesive and holistic learning experience
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Include regular physical exercise
The staff at the New Options (Higford) School use a range of innovative approaches to facilitate learning. All approaches focus on the use of structure and consideration of the environment and sensory issues in order to minimise distraction and stress. We see parents and carers as vital partners in all aspects of learning and welcome their contributions to programme planning.
New pupils have a comprehensive baseline assessment that forms the basis of a comprehensive Personal Learning Plan. The assessment identifies current skills, learning strengths and highlights the priority areas for future learning. The results of the baseline assessment are also used to review and evaluate pupil progress. The Personal Learning Plan informs education and care staff of each pupil’s specific development priorities and ensures a cohesive and consistent approach to supporting the children with autism and/or complex sensory and communication needs across the centre to ensure they achieve and succeed.
Key Stage 2 & 3
For the children aged between 8 and 14 the National Curriculum is used as a vehicle to provide pupils with a meaningful and varied educational experience. Schemes of work are creatively adapted through child-centred planning to give each pupil their own personal learning experience that targets their individual needs and priorities in the areas of communication, social skills, self-help skills, behaviour and sensory issues. Lessons are made meaningful and stimulating for each pupil through the use of experiential and multi-sensory techniques.
Key Stage 4
Pupils continue to follow a personal learning plan designed to address their individual needs and priorities. The National Curriculum remains the core of the students learning experience, but for 14-19 year olds it is enriched by a range of vocational experiences. Pupil achievement is recognised, where appropriate, through AQA Unit Awards and ASDAN Certificates.
Post 16 Curriculum
The New Options (Higford) School’s post 16 department offers students a modular programme with an emphasis on the continuing development of life, leisure and vocational experiences. Curriculum content continues to focus on person-centred planning and the addressing of individual learning priorities. The overall aim of the department is to prepare young people for transition to adult life within an appropriately supported environment. ASDAN Certificates can again be used to recognise student’s progress and achievements.