• Specialism:
  Autism Spectrum Condition, Asperger Syndrome and associated difficulties
• Residential/Day:
  Residential and Day
• Course Start Dates:
  Course start dates September and others
• Course Length per Year in weeks:
  38 weeks per year – preferably for a three year programme
• Maximum Student Numbers:
  Maximum 110
• Age Range:
  Age 16-25

General Description of College:
ESPA College was established in 1995 and continues to offer individualised high quality programmes for young people aged between 16 and 25 with autism spectrum condition, Asperger Syndrome and additional difficulties. We offer both day and residential programmes that prepare students for their future life through the promotion of personal well being, developing and extending independence and lead, where possible, to further study or work. Located in Sunderland and Newcastle, there are

The Curriculum:
communication, emotional literacy and better manage their behaviour. In addition students follow programmes such as horticulture, creative arts and the Duke of Edinburgh Award as well as Functional Skills. There are good opportunities to develop employability skills through a wide range of work placements including local supermarkets, conservation work and community work. Students may study for additional vocational or academic qualifications in local further education colleges with ESPA College staff support. We have well developed specialist services such as psychology, counselling, access to psychiatrists and speech and language therapists.

Statements:

1. expertise in working with learners with autism spectrum disorder
2. expertise in working with learners with Asperger syndrome
3. expertise in working with learners with autism spectrum disorder with associated challenging behaviour
4. expertise in supporting learners with behavioural difficulties
5. expertise in supporting learners with emotional difficulties
6. expertise in supporting learners with associated mental health needs
7. a programme to help learners to look after themselves more independently
8. opportunities to attend local mainstream colleges with support
9. a work placement scheme with local employers
10. opportunities to work towards qualifications within Foundation Learning
11. a programme to enable students to learn more about themselves and how to form relationships
12. opportunities for learners to participate in community activities and to learn about citizenship
13. opportunities to prepare for further training after college
14. opportunities to explore a range of living options after college
15. opportunities to develop strategies to promote appropriate behaviour
16. opportunities to take part in a wide range of social, leisure and sporting activities
17. a transition programme into independent living
18. in-house psychology services
19. in-house psychiatric services
20. an extensive programme of performing arts