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An exceptionally strong focus on training means staff are experienced in using a
range of strategies to support young people's individual needs and development
in all settings throughout the Waking Day. Regular staff training from induction
onwards ensures the highest levels of knowledge and expertise.
From the initial induction (which includes multiple observational shifts) to
ongoing training through the year, the aim is to ensure that staff are trained in
the autism methodologies and best practice on which the school's specialist
approach is based as well as medical, health, safeguarding and mandatory
training.
Training is led by experienced practitioners within the School Leadership team as
well as the onsite multi-disciplinary teams and supported by expertise from
external professionals.
Our strong, established internal training programmes nurture a strong team of
well-qualified and highly trained staff across all areas. Where necessary
additional specific training is undertaken to support particular roles and the
specific needs of our individual young people.
TEACCH is at the heart of our approach, and as such we are dedicated
to ensuring our staff our trained in the methodology. Staff attend regular
TEACCH training sessions on courses run twice per year by the University of
North Carolina at Prior's Court School, supported by senior members of staff. A
significant number of staff are qualified to TEACCH Certified and Advanced
Consultant levels. All of the leadership team, Home Managers and Teachers are
encouraged to complete a 5-day TEACCH course to provide Prior's Court School
with a very high level of autism expertise.