In the Swan Centre, we provide an ambitious, autism-specialist curriculum that aims to help every child make excellent progress from their individual starting points.

Our focus is on developing academic skills alongside developing communication, social skills, independence and emotional regulation so that pupils are well prepared for the next stages of their education and life. We draw on TEACCH principles, the EQUALS curriculum, and an adapted National Curriculum to ensure learning is structured, meaningful, and accessible for all.

We use clear TEACCH structure, with individual visual schedules, small-group teaching, visual supports, and predictable routines to help pupils feel secure and ready to learn. Pupils follow an adapted version of the National curriculum combined with elements from the EQUALS curriculum. Pupils benefit from integrated support from Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and sensory regulation tools. Communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation are taught explicitly using approaches such as AAC systems and the Zones of Regulation. Learning is broken into manageable steps, with a focus on repetition and overlearning to embed skills and is tailored to each child’s needs and EHCP outcomes.

As a result, pupils make strong and meaningful progress in academic skills as well as communication, social understanding, independence, and emotional regulation. They become more confident, better able to manage their emotions and routines, and increasingly independent in daily tasks. Pupils leave the Swan centre well equipped for the next stage of their education, with the skills and strategies they need to thrive in life.

We make sure our learning is real, meaningful and concrete, with a focus on real life skills, including regular trips into the local community.