At Ealing Independent College, we make it a priority to provide personalised support for students with autism, ensuring that each one receives the care and attention they need. I had the opportunity to speak with Laura Bellerby, our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo), to learn more about the strategies we use to create an inclusive environment for students on the autism spectrum. Here’s what Laura had to say.
What Specific Strategies Does Ealing Independent College Use to Support Students with Autism?
At EIC, we understand that every student with autism is unique, so we tailor our approach to meet their specific needs. As Laura explains, “Each student is treated as an individual, and strategies are developed to suit their specific needs.” One of the most effective approaches is our phased transition plan for students who may find the move into school challenging. For example, some students may struggle with arriving on time, so we offer later start times to help ease them into the school day. This personalised approach allows students to adjust to the school routine at their own pace, helping them gain confidence and feel more at ease.
Can You Share a Success Story of a Student with Autism Who Has Thrived at EIC?
Laura shared the inspiring story of a student who joined EIC in Year 10 after experiencing severe mental health challenges, including a period of hospitalisation. Initially, the transition from the weekend to the school week was particularly difficult, and this student often spent Monday mornings in Laura’s office instead of attending lessons. However, with the right support in place, the student’s confidence grew, and they eventually developed a passion for learning. By the time they left, they had secured a place to study Economics at a Russell Group university. “The sky’s the limit for a young person with Autism,” Laura says. “We encourage our students to dream big, and we work alongside them to develop a plan to make those dreams a reality.”
How Do the Small Class Sizes at EIC Benefit Students with Autism?
One of the key features of EIC is our small class sizes, which play a crucial role in supporting students with autism. Laura explains that smaller classes help to minimise sensory overload, reduce anxiety, and provide more opportunities for individual support. Teachers are able to dedicate more time to each student, whether it’s helping them with challenging concepts, offering emotional support, or extending learning for those who need more of a challenge. This level of attention is especially beneficial for students on the autism spectrum, who often thrive in a quieter, more focused environment.
What Role Does Pastoral Care Play in Supporting Students on the Autism Spectrum?
Pastoral care is at the heart of EIC’s approach to supporting students with autism. Many students with autism engage in masking, which means they hide their symptoms to fit in socially. This can be mentally and physically exhausting. Effective pastoral care ensures that students know they always have someone to turn to. “Our pastoral team is trained to spot when a student is struggling and intervene early,” Laura says. By identifying issues early on, we can help prevent small problems from escalating. Our open-door policy means students have access to support whenever they need it, whether it’s to talk about academic concerns or personal challenges.
How Does the Peer Mentoring System Work, and How Does It Benefit Younger Students, Particularly Those with Autism?
Our Peer Mentoring system is another important support network at EIC. Older students are paired with younger ones, and they meet regularly to offer guidance and share advice. Laura explains that many students with autism have been paired with mentors who also have autism, and this has been especially helpful. “Having someone who understands their challenges first-hand makes a huge difference,” she says. The mentors can offer practical advice on social situations, share coping strategies for managing stress, and help younger students feel more connected and supported within the school community.
Can You Explain the Open-Door Policy for Teachers and How It Supports Students’ Mental Health and Learning?
Our open-door policy is a central part of the EIC experience. Teachers are available during their free periods for students to drop in with any questions or concerns. Whether a student needs extra help with their coursework, emotional support, or simply wants to talk, the teachers are there to listen and offer guidance. This level of accessibility creates a supportive environment where students feel heard and valued, which is particularly important for students on the autism spectrum who may sometimes struggle to express their needs.
How Does EIC Create a Safe and Welcoming Environment for Students with Autism?
Creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment is a priority at EIC. In addition to our small class sizes, we offer a calm and quiet atmosphere that helps reduce the sensory overload often experienced in larger schools. For example, we don’t have bells signaling class changes, which can be distressing for some students, and we don’t require students to wear uniforms, allowing them to feel more comfortable and express their individuality.
For students who need extra support during unstructured times, we offer a supervised lunchroom where they can relax in a calm environment. We also use a behaviour management system that focuses on problem-solving rather than punishment, helping students learn to manage their behaviour in a positive way. As Laura puts it, “We place a strong emphasis on individuality and flexibility, ensuring that each student can thrive in a way that works for them.”
Looking Ahead
Ealing Independent College is committed to supporting students with autism in all areas of their lives. Through personalised strategies, tailored care and a nurturing environment, we help our students build confidence, meet their academic goals, and prepare for a successful future.
Ealing Independent College is dedicated to providing the best possible support for students with a range of learning needs, including autism. To learn more about how we can help your child or to schedule a tour, please contact our admissions team.