Alder

(Strength - Protection - Determination - Confidence)

 Alder is the specialist provision at Llanwern, which supports pupils with complex Additional Learning Needs (ALN) including Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Alder has its own entrance to the provision as well as a separate area for lunch and break times. It provides a curriculum for pupils who need the support of specialist staff focussing on the core values of determination and confidence.

Alder provides small group settings with a suite of five teaching rooms as well as smaller support rooms. Each room is based on stage rather than age with the focus of each room being the primary need of the pupil. Each pupil will have an individual learning pathway, depending on ability and previous learning experiences / educational settings. Through timely interventions, individual learning pathways and access to all mainstream facilities and lessons as appropriate, pupils are provided with the opportunities to develop their independent skills in preparation for adulthood.

Alder is situated alongside the Llanwern ASD Base and provides a thematic approach to the delivery of the curriculum, covering the four core principles of the new curriculum as well as each room having a specific focus. Within the thematic approach will be the opportunities for pupils to build a portfolio of AQA units, as well as KS4 pupils having vocational courses to complete such as SWEET and Equality and Diversity. Some pupils may progress to GCSE subjects; however, the majority will complete entry level qualifications and build up a portfolio of AQA units in readiness for college or employment.

Alder has strong links with external agencies such as Careers Wales and Coleg Gwent to help support the transition for pupils taking their next progression steps. Additionally, we strive to ensure there are strong community and parental links, offering termly parental mornings as well as visits to local communities.