Current data indicates that about 3% of children and young people in St Helens have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD/ASC). This is much higher than the national prevalence.
We want to ensure our mainstream schools are as knowledgeable and skilled as possible; enabling all children and young people to be fully understood, accepted and included in their class.
TESSA - Autism
has highly skilled, experienced teachers and specialist support staff who understand children and young people's development of language, social communication skills, flexibility of thinking and sensory processing needs.
Staff have many years of experience and endeavour to keep up to date with the latest research, current practice and pedagogy.
What we offer
We are highly skilled in helping a child or young person become more successful with their learning and develop their wider social, emotional and independence skills.
We advise on and demonstrate well evidenced autism and social communication strategies and interventions designed to secure better progress for children who are struggling to access learning.
Additionally, we provide a bespoke offer of pupil support based on individual outcomes such as life skills development, making friends, independent travel and much more besides.
We aim to be flexible and responsive, recognising that one size does not fit all.
Our offer includes:
- Assessment of children and young people with autism and social communication differences
- Advice and consultation for staff in schools and colleges
- Specialist advice for Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments
- Supporting children and young people with autism to transition successfully to their new setting
- 1:1 Person Centred work at KS3/4
- Attendance at reviews and multi-agency meetings
- Training for schools, settings and other professionals
Benefits
Your setting will benefit from:
- A quick response time and a professional approach
- Staff who know our town and your children and young people well
- Highly experienced and specialist trained staff
- Knowledge and skills being cascaded and shared
- Support with problem solving and finding your own solutions
- Targeted and bespoke training to meets the needs of your staff
The children and young people will benefit from:
- Better trained and knowledgeable teachers and support staff
- Improved understanding of their SEN and disability
- Supportive strategies to improve access to learning
- Greater inclusion in the classroom
- Improved mental health and well being
- High aspirations and new opportunities
Professional Development and Training
Staff in TESSA - Autism have established a well-respected reputation for delivering excellent training to schools and others who provide a service to children. They are highly experienced and have delivered training for many years, some holding national licences.
We are now AET Partners delivering the DfE-supported and CPD-accredited autism professional development programme
TESSA - Autism is a professional partner with the Autism Education Trust delivering their Autism Professional Development Programme that is co-produced with autistic people, education professionals and parents.
The Programme includes:
Making Sense of Autism
This is an awareness-raising module for all staff/practitioners working across schools and other settings
Good Autism Practice
In this module, we take delegates through some of the distinct learning needs and strengths that autistic pupils share, whilst helping delegates to take note of individual differences
And additional modules
- Anxiety
- Transition
- The Progression Tool
Additionally, we offer:
- Autism Strategies for Home - a Workshop for Parents
TESSA Autism is leading on the Autism in Schools Project funded by NHS England.
Share this page
