The Orchard (Communication and Interaction - Autism - Unit) ‘The Orchard’ will be opening in October 2025 and will have capacity for 12 children. We will be looking to initially open one class of up to six children, and the aim is to welcome an additional six children in the second class from January 2026.
We will provide a nurturing environment where children are able to access their learning in a way that is meaningful to them; responding to the needs of individuals by focusing on building relationships, sensory regulation and communication.
We have redesigned an area of our mainstream school which now comprises of two classrooms, a work room, a light room, a dark room and communal space - all designed with the needs of children with communication and interaction needs, at the heart of our provision. The Orchard also has an exclusive outdoor space with a variety of experiences to enhance the children’s learning.
The children will be able to arrive from 8.50am and the school day will run from 9am to 3pm. Breakfast will be available for the children on arrival in school.
Admissions
The admissions procedure for entry to The Orchard is only through the SEND team at Buckinghamshire County Council. In order to be considered for a place, children must have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) with either a diagnosis of autism, be on the pathway to be assessed for autism, or have a significant social communication need as identified by a professional.
Upon receipt of a placement consultation, a visit to the child’s current setting may be undertaken which will involve observing the child and meetings with staff and sometimes with parents too. This will enable The Orchard staff to establish whether our setting is the right place for the child.
A child who has a mainstream place at Overstone Combined School does not automatically become entitled to a place at The Orchard.
For more information regarding applying for a place, please speak to your child’s EHCP Coordinator or the SENDCo at your child’s school.
Lead Teacher: Mrs Jess Blake
SENDCo: Mrs Tracy Roberts
