Early years education is the beginning of a much longer journey here at Sybil Elgar School. We support autistic pupils from Reception through to Post-16 up to the age of 22. To help our pupils and students thrive in their future lives, we believe that building confidence, communication skills and independence from the earliest stages are key. 

The National Autistic Society highlights that autistic people may communicate and express themselves differently and our ethos and approach to teaching recognise these differences. This drives us to tailor strategies so our pupils and students may have a positive experience of school. 

Learning through play and movement 

Our Reception and Year 1 teacher, Wioletta, explains how playing with pegs, toy hammers, stacking towers and sorting shapes becomes more that just fun activities, it provides essential motor coordination development and encourages early writing skills. Outdoor learning supports pupils towards early maths skills through sorting, matching and recognition in a practical and playful manner.  

Communication, confidence and sensory exploration 

The National Autistic Society emphasises the importance of predictable environments and routines, that these can help autistic pupils and students feel calmer through reducing anxiety due to uncertainty.  

This becomes evident when we offer structured but flexible teaching opportunities, such as pupils visiting the school library to choose their own books, supporting their independence, encouraging reading and giving opportunity to take part in pre-phonics activities to encourage early language skills.   

Music also provides sensory engagements, building confidence, curiosity and listening skills through exploring sounds. 

A closing note from our therapy team...

Together, these early experiences with play and movement are building the foundations for the educational journey of each child. Please see our TDT newsletter for useful activities to practice gross motor skills by developing balance, coordination and body awareness in the early years.

Rooted in our vision, mission and values, the purpose of our school is to help prepare our young people to make a successful transition into adulthood with the confidence and the necessary skills to live as independently as possible and participate in their local community.