Special schools
The following schools provide special support in Thurrock.
Beacon Hill Academy
Beacon Hill Academy is a school for pupils with severe and profound learning difficulties aged 3 to 19 years-old.
Children with a range of special educational needs are offered structured part-time or full-time schooling based on early intervention work.
The nursery is used for assessment purposes. Primary and secondary pupils follow the national curriculum, which is adapted to suit their needs.
Children take part in a variety of work to support their development of language, early learning skills, play skills and social skills. There is an opportunity to work alongside mainstream students in Beacon Hill Academy itself.
There is a close working relationship with health authority colleagues, such as physiotherapists and speech and language therapists.
Treetops School
Treetops School is a special school for children and young people between the ages of 3 and 19 years-old who experience moderate learning difficulties and autistic spectrum condition (ASC). A number of students are on the autistic continuum and may have speech and language problems.
The school has specialist classes for pupils with ASC whose complexity of needs are best met with an intensive one-to-one support programme based on the principles of applied behaviour analysis and verbal behaviour. These programmes involve a wide range of activities to support communication. They are designed to make sure children and young people develop a range of skills that enable them to meet their full potential and access opportunities within the wider community.
All pupils follow the national curriculum at a pace and level that is appropriate for them. They can achieve key stages 1, 2 and 3 and do their Standard Assessment Tests (SATs).
At key stage 4, all pupils follow nationally accredited courses in at least 7 subjects along with participating in the ASDAN award school and the Trident gold award.
Class sizes are small with about 12 students per class with 1 teacher and 3 learning support assistants.
The school has close working relationships with parents. Parents can arrange to visit or request prospectus by contacting the school.