Education Services

While Sketchley School is small and highly specialised, we offer the same educational opportunities to our pupils as a mainstream school. Our academic curriculum is in line with mainstream provision and pupils are encouraged to study for a range of accreditations including GCSEs, A levels, functional skills courses and life skills qualifications. 

We have small class sizes which means that our young people have substantial time with staff members, who are able to provide the more support that helps them to quickly make progress. 

Smaller class sizes provide the low arousal environment our young people need to feel able to speak in groups and collaborate, a key area of their development. The smaller classes make it easier to practise the social skills that they are working on in therapy and school feels safe and homely. Children are able to build trust with staff and friendships between pupils flourish.

The learning experience at our school has been designed to minimise the high stress that those with autism can feel. We have much smaller sites than other schools which helps to avoid the anxiety our pupils may have felt in other settings. Our smaller class sizes and the space we have available reduce sensory overload, as we can adapt each learning area to suit the individual sensory needs of our young people.

We know that our young people need support to develop the everyday skills that enable independence, which is why all pupils follow a life skills curriculum. From the very start of their time with us, children learn in the community, building confidence and social skills in a safe and supported way. We also provide a broad range of positive life experiences for our young people off site.

Parents and carers play a crucial role in supporting their child’s education and ensuring that they reach their potential. We know how challenging life can be for families of a child who has autism and we provide guidance, practical support and advice from day one of their journey with us. The school works closely with parents, keeping in regular contact to update on progress and consult on next steps. Parents also have the reassurance of an open door policy ensuring open communication with all staff.