Allied Therapies
At Hope Tree School educational provision is supported by a range of allied therapists who are available to all students at the school. If a student is already engaged with any qualified professional prior to attending the school, this relationship and intervention can carry on whilst the student attends school.
SaLT - Speech and Language Therapy
Hope Tree School recognises the role of speech and language development in autism. Specific speech and language interventions can be provided in line with recommendations which form part of a students EHCP. In addition, once a student has started at the school, if there are any concerns relating to speech and language development, students can be assessed and interventions recommended. Some interventions can be delivered by school staff trained in specific interventions. Some interventions can be delivered directly by a Speech and Language Therapist.
OT - Occupational Therapy
Many autistic students have additional needs relating to sensory differences and difficulties with motor co-ordination. Hope Tree School is able to offer a calm and non-disruptive environment where distractions are kept to a minimum. Hope Tree School operates from a rural site which is peaceful and calm. There are many opportunities for learning to happen outside where movement can be an integral part of the activity. Where Occupational Therapy interventions are indicated on an EHCP, Hope Tree School will endeavour to ensure that these interventions are undertaken wherever possible. Some interventions can be delivered in school with staff who have undertaken specific training by our visiting OT. Some interventions will be delivered directly by our visiting OT or where the student already has a relationship with an OT, this can continue in school. Once a student has started at the school, if there are any concerns they can be assessed by our visiting Occupational Therapist.
Animal- assisted interventions
Time spent in nature and in the company of animals can have a profound impact on students; helping to alleviate stress, calm nerves, build confidence and provide a sense of wellbeing.
The main aims of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) are to improve a person’s social, emotional and cognitive functioning using animals that have been selected for their temperament and calm behaviours.
There is growing evidence that AAI can assist with a wide range of health disorders, in both children and adults. Autistic children can benefit greatly from these sessions which can improve health, wellbeing and quality of life.
Katy Gilbert, Queenholme Alpacas