We take a personalised approach to education

Our curriculum

The curriculum at Aspris Ridgeway School is designed to be personalised, holistic, and aspirational. Our rationale focuses on addressing the unique needs of autistic learners while paving a clear path toward qualifications, independence, and a fulfilling life.

  • Core vision and values: Our curriculum is built on the belief that every learner will leave empowered with confidence, autonomy, and compassion, contributing meaningfully to their communities. We are committed to being a beacon of excellence in autism education.
  • Personalisation as standard: The school offers a highly personalised curriculum so that all learners benefit from individualised learning.
  • High and inclusive aspirations: We encourage learners to follow their passions and avoid placing limitations on what they can achieve. The goal is to ensure the majority of our learners will leave with at least 5 GCSEs. However, we also recognise the wide range of SEN barriers and missed education. Therefore, we endeavour to find a level of accreditation that every learner can leave with. This includes utilising ASDAN and Functional Skills where GCSEs are not appropriate.
  • Closing gaps: The curriculum is rigorous in the identification and closing of gaps in knowledge and skills, specifically addressing the chronological gap caused by missed learning, to achieve high outcomes at KS4.
Our curriculum

With small class sizes and high levels of individual support, every young person can access learning in a way that works for them.

Subjects we offer:

  • English, maths and science
  • Art, drama and music
  • PE and PSHE
  • ICT, design technology and food
  • Enterprise and personal development
  • Animal care and social thinking

Qualifications

  • Functional skills
  • BTECs
  • GCSEs
  • Entry level certificates
  • AQA Unit Awards
  • Duke of Edinburgh Award

Key facilities at our school

Our extensive campus, spanning three unique buildings – including the magnificent Gothic-inspired, Grade II listed ‘Village School’ – often surprises visitors. Described affectionately as a ‘Tardis’, our learning environment is far bigger on the inside, revealing specialised, state-of-the-art resources designed to maximise both educational and therapeutic outcomes.

  • Two interactive sensory rooms
  • Modern science laboratory and food technology room
  • Spacious outdoor areas and quiet rooms
  • Creative arts and design space
  • Private, tranquil therapy room

Our space is rich in creativity and character. More importantly, it’s a safe base where students feel like they belong.

Our therapy and support services

We are committed to providing a holistic and integrated educational experience for our learners with autism. We recognise that academic success is intrinsically linked to a young person’s ability to regulate their sensory world, communicate effectively, and manage their social and emotional well-being.

To achieve this, we have developed a robust, on-site therapy team that works seamlessly with our teaching staff. The multi-disciplinary team includes:

  • Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENDco)
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Speech and Language Therapist

Therapy techniques are embedded throughout the school day, helping pupils engage with learning develop self-awareness, discover coping strategies and build emotional resilience.

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