Our Classes

We currently have 14 classes named after famous people with autism from around the world; they are arranged by need rather than age or ability and students remain in these groups for all lessons. We refer to our class groups as Learning Families as this reflects our school culture and approach to learning. 

Applegate

This class is named after Jessica-Jane Applegate, a British paralympic medallist swimmer. Applegate is part of our Haven centre, which is on a separate site from our Orchard campus.

Brecel

This group is named after Luca Brecel, a champion snooker player from Belgium.

Packham

This class is named after a famous wildlife expert, Chris Packham. It is part of our Haven centre provision, situated within our Orchard site. 

Burton

This Learning Family is named after Tim Burton, a famous director of films such as 'A Nightmare Before Christmas'. 

Dawson

A group named after Michelle Dawson, a scientific researcher from Canada.

Einstein

This Learning Family is named after Albert Einstein, a world-famous scientist and mathematician from Germany.

Grandin

This class is named after Temple Grandin, an animal researcher and author from Canada.

Kissin

This Learning Family is named after Evgeny Kissin. Born in 1971, he is an Israeli-Russian–British classical pianist who first came to international fame as a child prodigy.

Mendoza

A class named after Thristhan Mendoza, a child prodigy musician from The Philippines. 

Tesla

A Learning Family named after Nikola Tesla, an inventor and engineer from Serbia.

McGuinness

This group is named after Christine McGuinness, a well known advocate and campaigner for Women with Autism. 

Stoltman

This group is named after Tom Stoltman, a professional strong man. Stoltman is part of our Haven centre, which is on a separate site from our Orchard campus.

Gadsby

This group is named after Hannah Gadsby, a comedian, writer and actor. Gadsby is part of our Haven centre, which is on a separate site from our Orchard campus.

Messi 

This group is named after Lionel Messi the professional footballer.