Understanding your child's needs
We support children aged 5–11 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), including many children who have experienced anxiety around education or emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA). Every child is different, so we begin by understanding the individual rather than the diagnosis.
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Children with autism experience the world in different ways. At Homebrook Woods, we create a calm, predictable and autism-informed environment where children feel understood, communication is respected and learning is adapted around individual strengths, interests and needs.
Speech, Language & Communication Needs (SLCN)
Communication is at the heart of everything we do. We use a Total Communication approach, drawing on visual supports, AAC, Makaton, symbols and language-friendly teaching strategies to help every child understand, express themselves and participate confidently throughout the day.
Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
Many of the children we support have experienced significant anxiety around attending school. We take time to build trusting relationships, reduce demands, establish routines and help children gradually rediscover confidence, security and enjoyment in learning.
Is Homebrook Woods right for your child?
Whether you're a parent, Local Authority or education professional, we're happy to discuss whether Homebrook Woods may be the right provision for your child. We welcome referrals from Local Authorities, schools, professionals and, where appropriate, parents or carers. Every referral is considered carefully and individually to ensure we can meet a child's needs safely and effectively.
With an EHCP
If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan, their Local Authority can name Homebrook Woods as their provision.
Without an EHCP
We also accept self-funded or Local Authority commissioned placements for children awaiting assessment or funded independently.
Not sure? Talk to us
We are always happy to talk through your child's situation and advise on the right route.
What Makes a Successful Placement?
We carefully consider whether Homebrook Woods is likely to be the right provision for each child before offering a place. We look for children who would benefit from:
- A small, calm, nurturing specialist environment
- A therapeutic and neurodiversity-affirming approach
- Individual learning programmes with high levels of adult support
- Consistent, trusted relationships with a small number of adults
- A setting that values communication, wellbeing and independence alongside academic learning
Our Assessment Process
Every placement begins with a conversation. We review all available information about a child — including EHCPs, previous reports, medical information and family perspectives — before any placement is offered. Where possible, we arrange an initial visit to Homebrook Woods and a meeting with the family or referring professional. This helps us ensure that our setting is the right environment for the child and allows families to ask questions and get a feel for who we are. We are always honest if we feel another provision may be better placed to meet a child's needs. Our priority is always the right outcome for the child.
Let's talk about your child
No two children are alike. The best first step is a conversation.
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