ASD Lead Schools

There are currently 6 Primary Lead Schools (one nursery school, 1 infant school, 1 junior
and 3 primary schools) in Sunderland. These schools were identified to further develop
their ASD expertise following a lengthy selection process, involving an audit of current
provision and the identification of future needs of those pupils with a diagnosis of ASD.
The schools work in partnership with the AOT, demonstrating and sharing a role model of good practice in teaching pupils with ASD to schools within the locality.

 

What is a Lead ASD School?

Lead schools were identified following a lengthy selection process involving an audit of current provision and the identification of future needs of those pupils throughout the city with a diagnosis of ASD. One nursery school, one infant and one junior school and three schools from the primary sector were identified to further develop their ASD expertise. The schools work in partnership with the Autism Outreach Service (AOS),
demonstrating and sharing a role model of good practice in teaching pupils with ASD to schools within each locality.

The schools deliver level one autism training and demonstration lessons to providers within each locality. Staff, will eventually be qualified to certificate level in ASD and will support the AOS in achieving the objectives set out in the ASD improvement plans and will contribute to the development and delivery of future plans.

• Provide advice on developing an appropriate, flexible curriculum to
meet individual student needs.
• Demonstrate and share useful strategies and resources used in
supporting pupils with ASD. Work in partnership with the AOS to
provide level one training for school staff, parents and other
professionals in meeting the needs of children with ASD .
• Provide advice on developing an ASD friendly environment.
• Opportunities for other schools to observe good practice.
• Informal support mechanism for locality schools.

 

Charges for services offered

Services offered in partnership are funded by the Children’s Services Directorate and offered at no cost to partner schools.