Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Speech, Language and Communication Needs

• All teachers have received training and use the Newcastle Mainstream Guidance in supporting the needs of all pupils with communication and interaction needs.
• A differentiated curriculum and resources including sensory equipment or access to the sensory room
• Resources to reduce anxiety and promote emotional wellbeing as well as stimulating different senses eg. fiddle toy, stress ball.
• Visual timetables to support children to understand what will happen and when
• Makaton is used to support language
• Now and Next boards
• Individual work stations
• Areas of low distraction
• Support/ supervise children at time they feel most anxious or stressed e.g. break and lunch.
• Social skills programme/support including strategies to enhance self-esteem e.g. social stories.
• Small group targeted intervention programmes to pupils to improve skills in a variety of areas.
• Within the Early Years, we offer small group intervention following Black Sheep interventions or Box Time. 
• All staff encourages social interaction by providing a range of structured games during break times.
• Small group or one-to-one support for developing pupil’s speech, language and communication following programmes of work provided by outside specialists such as speech and language therapists.
• IT is used to reduce barriers to learning where possible.
• Strategies/programmes to support speech and language development including specialists from outside of school.
• Staff work with specialists from outside of school to support the children overcome barriers.

Updated September 2022