Cambridgeshire’s first Sixth Form solely for autistic pupils will open in the next academic year at the Cavendish School which is the county’s first state-maintained special free school provision for autistic children.
Initially available to students at the school who are ready to progress beyond GCSEs, the post-16 provision will enable them to obtain an Open University Level One module, work or volunteer and benefit from continued therapeutic Personal Learning Goal (PLG) support.
Credits from the Level One Open University module count towards a certificate of higher education, a diploma of higher education, a foundation degree, or an honours degree, if the student continues to study with Open University.
Alternatively, the 120 credits obtained on completion of the module can meet the entry requirements for other universities similar to A Levels. Universities that accept Open University credits include Anglia Rusin University, Goldsmiths University of London and Leicester University.
There are currently 64 Level One modules available to choose from in subjects such as the Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering, Languages, Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences and Business.
Commenting on the new provision, Stephanie Smith, Head of School, said: “We have always looked at education for autistic children differently at The Cavendish School.
“Our education system is tailored to our pupils’ unique needs and aspirations, and we want to ensure that this ethos and offering continues in Years 12 and 13.
“While there is already a range of post-16 options in Cambridgeshire, we are proud to offer our students an option that provides the same flexibility, accessibility and inclusion they experience during their academic journey at the school.”
Therapeutic support will include a class tutor, in-house therapists, job coach support and life skills lessons focused on independent living. The Sixth Form classrooms will be located in the same building as the main school for the continuity of the students’ learning experience.
Smith continued: “The Open University modules offer a blend of learning materials underpinned by tutor support, which when combined with our onsite staff support, will suit our pupils learning requirements in a way that a larger mainstream provision may not.
“In line with our mission of developing young people who are prepared for adulthood, it offers our students multiple pathways once they finish their time at The Cavendish School.”
Elizabeth Shakespeare, Senior Manager, Student Support at The Open University, said: “We are extremely excited about this opportunity to collaborate with The Cavendish School. Inclusion is at the heart of our mission as The Open University currently supports more disabled students than any other University in Europe, including a significant population of autistic students and alumni.
“This collaboration presents a fantastic opportunity for students who may face unique challenges in traditional campus settings to build their skills and confidence and we are committed to creating an environment where all individuals are supported and valued.
“We look forward to welcoming these young learners into our community.”
The school and The Open University are hosting a free webinar for teachers, parents and carers on flexible post-16 provision for autistic learners. Register to attend: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/a7074e72-a169-4486-bd87-a729015ff87c@7984087c-3051-451f-b78b-a261f70c3fa0
