Dovedale is a 72 placement provision for pupils with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) from upper KS2 (years 5 & 6), KS3 and KS4. 

All pupils that attend Dovedale have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and are referred via the Special Educational Needs Assessment and Review Service (SENAR) for a place at James Brindley.  Many of our pupils have co-existing conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tourette’s Syndrome, attachment disorders and other social, emotional and mental health needs.

Pupils are taught in classes of up to seven with a teacher and a teaching assistant.  KS2 are taught by specialist primary teachers who are extremely skilled at supporting pupils entering the centre to catch up with gaps in their learning.  At KS3 and KS4, all lessons are taught by subject specialists.  Our offer includes a curriculum of English, Maths, Science, Computing, PSHE, PE, RE, Resistant Materials, Cooking, Art, Spanish and an Enrichment afternoon which offers a further range of activities including sign language, first aid, Bikeability, karate and drama.

Our staff work closely with our pupils and their families, as well as other professionals to put together personalised support plans to meet their needs.

Lisa Valentini

Assistant Principal, Head of Dovedale Centre