Grateley House School

Grateley House School is a residential school for young people aged 9-19 years, who have a diagnosis of Autism or have strong emotional/behavioural traits of the Autistic Spectrum, typically high functioning Austim (Asperger Syndrome). The school can support young people with other associated difficulties such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia. Secondary mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression and its associated behaviours can also be accommodated when such difficulties occur as part of (but not in place of) an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). All young people in the school will have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) or a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Accommodation is provided in seven age based, family style houses. There are three houses located on the first floor of the converted main building, with another four clustering around the grounds. Each house has its own lounge, play/leisure area and kitchenette. All houses have toilets and showers, with most houses containing baths.

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for tidiness around the house and in their own rooms. Students are appointed single study bedrooms and are encouraged to bring pictures, books and any other special items that are personal to them. Students can watch television in their free time in the lounges, which offers a selection of Freeview digital channels. A range of resources and games are also available in each living area for students to use.

The curriculum followed is broadly based on the statutory requirements of the new National Curriculum, but the delivery of subjects is adapted to meet the very particular needs of our students.

The curriculum model emphasises the importance of key core subjects, whilst offering the full National Curriculum. Our curriculum offers a range of options in years 9 to 11 that can lead to external accreditation and qualifications. There is also an opportunity for students to have short periods of work experience where appropriate; these may be on or off-site. Where possible the school places students with local employers and works with partner organisations to ensure the suitability of placements.

Consistent teaching and learning takes place over a longer period that in mainstream day schools. Class groups are small, allowing for individual programmes of study. Alongside the formal curriculum, behaviour management strategies and the development of social skills are also an integral part of every lesson on the timetable.

Grateley House School provides formal education for students on 190 weekdays within each academic year.

At Grateley House School we aim to provide consistent, diverse, enjoyable and structured learning opportunities through a waking day curriculum, seven days a week.

We understand that not all young people with Asperger Syndrome will learn new skills at the same pace. Our curriculum caters for students with a wide range of needs regardless of the speed of their progress.

Grateley House School believes that our students are entitled to a curriculum that is characterised by breadth, relevance, differentiation and progression.