Teaching & Learning

Our Learning Environment

Predictable daily routines that help students feel secure and confident
Visual supports and clear signage throughout the building
Designated spaces for different activities to help students understand expectations
Flexible learning areas that can be adapted to individual sensory and learning needs

Our Comprehensive Curriculum
Building Foundation Skills for Life
Our curriculum goes far beyond traditional subjects – we focus on developing the essential skills that will empower our students throughout their lives. Every lesson is carefully planned to build confidence, independence, and joy in learning.

Core Academic Skills:

Literacy Development: From early communication through advanced reading and writing, adapted to each student's communication style
Numeracy and Mathematics: Practical math skills linked to real-world applications, from basic counting to complex problem-solving
Science and Discovery: Hands-on experiments and investigations that spark curiosity and understanding
Creative Arts: Music, art, drama, and creative writing that celebrate individual expression and build confidence

Essential Life Skills:

Communication Excellence: Developing each student's unique communication strengths, whether verbal, non-verbal, or using assistive technology
Social Understanding: Learning to navigate friendships, relationships, and social situations with confidence
Independence Skills: From personal care to household management, preparing for adult life
Work and Career Preparation: Exploring interests, developing work skills, and preparing for employment or further education

The Baskerville Learning Journey
Key Stage 3 (Ages 11-14): Building Strong Foundations
Thoughtful Class Organization: Our Key Stage 3 students are carefully grouped considering age, communication abilities, learning styles, and social needs. This thoughtful approach ensures each student learns alongside peers who can support and inspire them.

Small Class Excellence:

Maximum of 10 students per class, ensuring individualised attention
A dedicated class teacher who becomes an expert in each student's needs and strengths
One, two  or more consistent teaching assistants providing stability and personalised support
Specialist subject teachers bringing expertise in areas like PE, music, art, and technology
Consistent support team - teaching assistants stay with students throughout the day, providing security and continuity

Key Stage 3 Focus Areas:

Establishing strong communication foundations
Developing academic skills through engaging, hands-on learning
Building social connections and friendship skills
Exploring personal interests and talents
Developing independence in daily routines
Beginning to understand the wider world and community

Key Stage 4 (Ages 14-16):

Growing Independence and Achievement
Accredited Learning Pathways: Students follow nationally recognised qualifications adapted to their individual strengths and needs. Our flexible approach means each student can achieve success while working toward meaningful credentials.

Post-16 Options (Ages 16-19)

Students can progress to either:
On-site Post-16 Program - Focusing on independence, life skills and vocational training  and art

Bournville College Resource Base - With options for mainstream class integration or specialised life skills curriculum
Most students remain in our supportive environment until age 19.

Academic Excellence:

Personalised learning plans that build on individual strengths and interests
Practical, real-world applications of academic subjects
Project-based learning that connects different subjects and skills
Regular assessment and celebration of progress and achievements
Social and Emotional Development:

Enhanced focus on relationships and social skills development
Leadership opportunities within the school community
Community connections through projects and partnerships
Self-advocacy skills to help students understand and communicate their needs
Transition Preparation:

Exploring post-16 options and planning for the future
Work experience and vocational exploration
Independent living skills development
Family partnership in planning next steps
Post-16 Excellence (Ages 16-19): Preparing for Adult Life
Our Post-16 provision offers two fantastic pathways, each designed to help students transition successfully to adult life while building on their unique strengths and interests.

On-Site Post-16 Program: Skills for Life and Work

Independence Focus:

Daily living skills: Cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and household management
Community access: Using public transport, shopping, banking, and navigating services
Work preparation: CV writing, interview skills, workplace behavior, and job searching
Social and recreational skills: Building friendships, enjoying hobbies, and participating in community activities
Vocational Training:

Personalised career exploration based on individual interests and abilities
Real work experience in supported environments
Skill development in areas like hospitality, retail, office work, gardening, and creative industries
Certification opportunities in relevant vocational areas
Creative and Personal Development:

Art and creative expression: Developing talents and building portfolios
Physical health and wellbeing: Fitness, sports, and healthy lifestyle choices
Personal growth: Building confidence, self-esteem, and personal identity
Technology skills: Digital literacy for work and personal life
Bournville College Resource Base: Bridging to Mainstream
Flexible Learning Options:

Discovery Department: Specialised Excellence

Supporting Students with Complex Needs
Our Discovery Department provides a nurturing, specialised environment for students with autism and severe developmental delays, offering a truly individualised approach to learning and development.

Developmental Curriculum:

Sensory learning experiences are designed for individual sensory profiles
Communication development using multiple methods and technologies
Basic life skills are taught through repetition, routine, and positive reinforcement
Social interaction is encouraged through structured activities and peer connections
Physical development through movement, exercise, and therapeutic activities
Highly Specialised Support:

Very high staff ratios ensure constant, individualised attention
Multi-disciplinary team including teachers, therapists, and specialists
Family-centred approach with regular communication and collaboration
Therapeutic integration with speech, occupational, and physical therapies woven into daily learning
Individual Success Celebration: Every small step forward is recognized and celebrated, understanding that progress looks different for each student and that every achievement, no matter how small it may seem, represents significant growth and effort.

Our Promise to Every Student
At Baskerville School, we don't just understand autism – we celebrate it. We recognize that each student brings unique strengths, perspectives, and potential to our community. Our comprehensive approach ensures that whether a student dreams of university, employment, independent living, or simply being happier and more confident in their daily life, we create the pathway for them to achieve their personal best.

Every student leaves Baskerville School with:

Enhanced communication skills appropriate to their abilities
Greater independence and life skills
Improved social understanding and connections
Academic achievements that reflect their capabilities
Confidence in their unique strengths and abilities
A clear pathway and support for their next life chapter
The knowledge that they are valued, capable, and ready for their future
 
At Baskerville School, we believe that with the right support, understanding, and opportunities, every student with autism can achieve remarkable things. We're here to make that belief a reality.