Thomas Bewick School is the Newcastle Local Authority specialist provision for children and young people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). All of our pupils have a Statement of Special Educational Need which identifies ASD as their principal need. They have a range of learning difficulties; some will require a high level of adult support to access the curriculum, whilst others achieve close to age-related expectations in some areas. All staff participate in a continuous programme professional development, including autism-specific training.

The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum across Foundation Stage, Primary, Secondary and Post 16. Pupils are supported by autism –specific strategies and approaches to meet their individual needs and learning styles. 

A small number of pupils are able to benefit from a 24-hour curriculum in the residential unit which is housed on our Hadrian Site.

At Thomas Bewick School we aim to enable each pupil to :

• communicate and interact effectively with others and the world around them.
• become independent learners.
• value themselves and their own achievements and accept and show tolerance of others.
• enjoy being part of the school community.
• participate in and contribute to the wider social community.
• lead a safe, happy and fulfilling lifestyle

Core to these aims is the development of outstanding teaching and learning, an excellent partnership between home and school, positive relationships and networks within the multi-agency setting and the commitment to sharing of our expertise on autism with the wider community.