Robins and Hedgehogs Classes (Units)

Robins and Hedgehogs classes are designated Units for children with autism and complex needs.

Houndsfield Primary School is proud to have both Robins and Hedgehogs classes from September 2024. This is our new unit provision for children with autism and complex needs. Both classes have 2 rooms that are situated within the Houndsfield site enabling us to provide a bespoke, tailored learning experience to meet the needs of children with autism including:

* Separate gate for parental access

* Direct access to an outdoor space

* Toilets and a kitchen area

Each learning space is divided into two classrooms to allow us to create environments. The rooms provide spaces for the different areas of the curriculum to be delivered and the outdoor space includes a climbing frame for gross motor skills as well as opportunities for children to explore, enjoy and engage in a variety of activities.

Who are the classes for?

We offer a safe and stimulating environment for children with an EHCP who have a diagnosis of autism and are in Years 1-6.To join either class, children will need to have Houndsfield Primary School named as their provision through agreement with Enfield SEN Service. The unit is a full time school provision for these children. They will be part of a small class with no more than 12 children.

What can we offer?

The classes are taught by our specialist autism teacher and supported by specialist teaching assistants who are all committed to improving the outcomes for children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities. All of the staff are trained in teaching and supporting children with complex needs and autism and we receive additional support with external agencies including:

* educational psychology service

* speech and language therapists

* occupational therapy

As an inclusive school, we have a lot of successful experience in supporting children with complex SEND. In addition to Robins Class, we have a Speech and Language Resource for children across the Borough of Enfield and a Nurture class. Additionally, staff are trained in and can offer specialist teaching strategies such as picture exchange communication system (PECS), attention autism and positive behaviour support (PBS).

What do children learn?

We aim to give our children the skills and strategies they need to be as independent as possible so that they can begin to prepare for adulthood. The curriculum is designed around children’s needs so that they receive the teaching that they need. We create quality learning opportunities to broaden and challenge children’s knowledge and life skills. This ensures that the children have the opportunity to engage in learning throughout the school day.

Our leaflet for parents can be found here

For further information, please contact the school office: office@houndsfield.enfield.sch.uk 

Salome Japal, Hedgehogs Teacher
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