At Christ Church C of E (VA) Primary School, we are proud to have a dedicated Focus Provision that specialises in supporting pupils with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our provision offers a calm, structured, and nurturing environment where pupils are supported to thrive both academically and personally. 

Expertise and Care 

Our experienced and passionate staff are at the heart of what makes the Focus Provision so special. Each team member is committed to understanding and meeting the unique needs of every child in their care. We take pride in delivering high-quality, person-centred support that celebrates individual strengths and promotes independence. 

What Makes Our Focus Provision Special? 

Every child in our Focus Provision is seen and supported as an individual. We provide a bespoke curriculum that reflects each pupil’s strengths, needs, and learning style. Through this tailored approach, we aim to: 

• Provide engaging and meaningful learning experiences that broaden each child's understanding of the world 
• Develop communication using augmentative communication strategies, including symbols, signing, sentence building, communication books, and verbal communication, delivered in a multisensory environment 
• Offer appropriate learning opportunities based on individual needs, aligned with each pupil’s Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) 
• Equip children with the life skills and confidence needed to become celebrated, valued individuals in the wider community 
   

We are proud to be a total communication environment, supporting each child’s communication and language development through a wide range of tools and strategies. 

Life Skills and Enrichment Opportunities 

In addition to our academic and communication-focused curriculum, we dedicate one day each week to developing life skills and personal, social, and emotional development through real-world experiences. These include: 

• Community-Based Instruction (CBI) Outings: These outings allow children to practice essential life skills in real-world settings. They can help children learn to communicate, navigate safely, and manage their time effectively. 
• Scavenger Hunts: Scavenger hunts can be a fun way to explore new places and help children practice their skills in a structured yet engaging manner.  
• Regular Trips: Visiting a grocery store can help children learn about budgeting, shopping, and healthy choices, which are important life skills.  
• School Site Visits: Exploring the school campus can help children interact with places and people they don't regularly see, developing their communication and independence skills.  

These external visits not only promote life skills but also provide children with valuable experiences that can enhance their overall development and self-confidence and prepare them for life beyond the classroom. 

Supporting the Whole Child 

We support pupils in all areas of their development. This includes: 

• Communication and language development 
• Sensory processing needs 
• Emotional regulation and positive behaviour support 
• Access to a curriculum tailored to their specific learning profile 
   

Individual Positive Behaviour Support Plans and sensory regulation strategies are used where needed, ensuring that every child has full access to the curriculum and feels safe, understood, and valued. 

Settling into the Focus Provision 

Transitions into our Focus Provision are carefully planned and fully tailored to the needs of each child. We work closely with families and professionals to make this process as smooth and supportive as possible. 

Where appropriate, our staff will: 

• Visit the child in their current setting to observe and begin building a relationship 
• Meet with current key staff to gather detailed insights into the child’s strengths, needs, and preferences 
• Invite the child and their parents/carers to visit Christ Church for an initial visit 
• Plan a phased transition, with a flexible timetable tailored to the child’s needs 

The goal is to ensure that every child feels safe, welcome, and ready to learn. 

How to Access a Place in the Focus Provision 

To be eligible for a place in our Focus Provision, a child must: 

• Have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) 
• Have a formal diagnosis of Autism 

Places are allocated by the Local Authority Provision Panel, in consultation with parents/carers, the Focus Provision Manager/SENCo, and the Headteacher. 

Inclusion at Christ Church 

Inclusion at Christ Church means belonging, participation, and value. Pupils in the Focus Provision are included in wider school life in ways that are meaningful and supportive. This includes: 

• Assemblies, Sports Days, and Celebration Events
• Topic-based learning and class projects 
• Mainstream class participation for specific lessons or activities 
• Offsite visits, swimming lessons, and residentials when appropriate 
• Lunchtimes and playtimes that promote peer interaction and friendships 
   

We believe that inclusion is not about fitting in, but about creating a community where everyone is respected, empowered, and supported to succeed.