Cambridgeshire’s first sixth form solely for autistic students will open this September at The Cavendish School. The Impington school is the county’s first state-maintained special free school for autistic children, and this week announced its provision will expand in the upcoming academic year.
The Sixth Form will initially be available to its current students who are ready to progress beyond GCSEs and its offerings include a form of qualification that is recognised by some universities.
Tailored education
Options available for students will include support with obtaining an Open University Level One module, an insight into the world of work or volunteering opportunities. They will also be able to continue benefiting from specialist therapeutic support.
Stephanie Smith, Head of School, said: “We have always looked at education for autistic children differently at The Cavendish School. Our education system is tailored to our pupils’ unique needs and aspirations and we want to ensure that this ethos and offering continues in Years 12 and 13.
“While there is already a range of post-16 options in Cambridgeshire, we are proud to offer our students an option that provides the same flexibility, accessibility and inclusion they experience during their academic journey at the school.”
Qualification
Credits from the Level One Open University module count towards further education options if the student continues to study with the Open University. It can also meet entry requirements for other universities in a similar way to A levels.
Anglia Ruskin University, Goldsmiths University of London and Leicester University are among the locations that recognise the qualification which is available in 64 subjects. These include sciences, maths, engineering, languages, law and business.
Therapeutic support available will include a class tutor, in-house therapists, job coach support and life skills lessons focused on independent living. The Sixth Form classrooms will be located in the same building as the main school for the continuity of the students’ learning experience.
The Cavendish School is hosting a free webinar on flexible post-16 provision for autistic learners on 2 April. Register to attend.
READ MORE: Ofsted: “No ceiling” to learning at the Cavendish School | HI HUB