help in the decision-making process. We are also able to review papers such as Education Health
& Care Plans, Annual Review and other documents at this early stage to give an early indication of
whether Prior's Court might be a suitable option to consider.
An initial screening of papers is undertaken by lead practitioners who then feedback to
the Admissions Panel to establish potential suitability for Prior's Court School.
An initial pre-assessment meeting with parents, placing authority and current provider
will take place to establish suitability for full assessment.
With the support of the local authority, the young person and their parents/carers are
invited to an onsite assessment undertaken by senior lead practitioners with significant
experience and members of the multi-disciplinary team. A second assessment in the
current provision or young person's home is undertaken if necessary.
The assessment, together with further information from parents/carers and
professionals, is considered by the Admissions Panel to determine whether Prior's
Court School would be able to meet the young person's needs, provide an appropriate
peer group and enable the young person to progress.
Failure to disclose information during the assessment process may affect the validity of
the assessment and lead to the process being terminated.
A recommendation from the Admissions Panel is then made to the CEO and Executive
team who confirm that the admissions criteria have been met, that a place is available
and that staffing in place before an offer of placement may be made.
Admissions Criteria
All pupils will have a diagnosis of autism. Referrals can be accepted for children and
young people who are awaiting diagnosis however a formal diagnosis may be
required.
All pupils will have moderate to severe learning difficulties (as specified in their
Education Health & Care Plan).
Pupils may also have associated conditions such as ADHD, epilepsy, OCD and/or other
health or additional needs such as but not limited to challenging behaviour which may
be met dependent on Prior's Court School's ability to provide the specialist support or
specific environments required.
The number of pupils requiring a staffing level of 2:1 or 1:1 at night is currently limited
and at capacity. Staffing levels are reviewed at the 3-month review of placement
ADMISSIONS - PRIORS COURT SCHOOL
Version 1 Review Date: 30 Sep 2023