An extension of Fosse Way School’s ASD specialist provision was established at Norton Hill School in September 2006. This created the opportunity for students with a statement of high functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome to gain access to full time mainstream education including GCSE courses and where appropriate, study at ‘A’ level. In September 2021 the provision relocated to Writhlington School due to oversubscription at Norton Hill.
Students spend the majority of their time in lessons with mainstream peers supported by Fosse Way staff as necessary. Some time is also spent in a specialist classroom. All students offered placements at Writhlington remain on the Fosse Way roll. Whilst students should feel that they are part of Writhlington School they should also be familiar with Fosse Way. Fosse Way students who have previously received their education at Norton Hill in this way have achieved up to eight GCSEs at grade ‘C’/4 and above. Success at GCSE has in turn enabled some Fosse Way students to join the sixth form and go on to degree courses at universities including Oxford, Bournemouth, Bath Spa and Cardiff.
The ASD specialist classroom at Writhlington was created in a former Science and Technology room known as ST2. The room functions as an area for the completion of work, a tutor room and a sanctuary or ‘time out’ space if needed. ST2 contains four computers as well as study and dining areas. The provision is co-ordinated by a full-time teacher supported by a teaching assistant, both of whom are employed by Fosse Way. The Deputy Head teacher at Norton Hill, Clare England, provides a ‘link’ between the two schools and liaises between senior staff where necessary.
More information regarding ST2 can be found in this guide for parents: