Acorn Park School

About Us

Acorn Park is an independent, specialist day and residential school that caters for children and young people aged 6 – 19 years who have communication and learning challenges associated with Autism. We are a fully integrated community made up of a range of professionals from different backgrounds employed to meet the diverse needs of the young people and families that we support.

We have a deservedly good reputation with parents and placing authorities for meeting the needs of children and young people across the Autism Spectrum including those whose behaviour can be challenging.

Our methodology is underpinned by an understanding that children on the Autism Spectrum are more likely to have happy and fulfilling lives and if we support the development of their autonomy and wellbeing by giving them effective ways to communicate and building their capacity to cope with the demands and challenges of their lives.

We recognise that for some children to achieve their potential, parents and professionals have to spend a little more time and energy putting together a support package that is going to be meaningful and effective. For children and young people whose needs are more complex we have created bespoke provisions which aim to build a personal curriculums to develop a child’s communication, emotional regulation, independent living skills and access to the community.

The school offers day placements and 38 week or 52 week residential placements.

We recognise that effective learning takes place where there are strong relationships between adults and children and between each child and their peers.

How do we do this…

Create enabling environments that promote the well being of each individual in a safe and secure setting in which they can live, work and develop their potential Unlock the potential of the young people who live and learn at Acorn Park so they are able to live fulfilling and productive lives Develop in each young person a greater understanding and awareness of themselves, their community and the world in which they live Build on the strengths and celebrate the achievements of all our young people Teach all students new personal, social and practical skills that will help them in later life including providing opportunities for work experience and involvement in accredited learning where possible Develop communication skills and use language (whenever possible) with confidence to communicate effectively, using Information and Communications Technology and preferred modes of communication Develop the appropriate skills to participate in a suitably differentiated, broad and balanced curriculum including the National Curriculum Develop self-confidence and capacity for emotional regulation, communicative competence, independence, pride in self and in their school, and an interest in their activities Establish an effective and mutually supportive working partnership between home and school Establish Acorn Park School as an exceptional provision in the education and care of young people on the Autism Spectrum.

What it’s like to work for us?

Our work can be challenging and rewarding in equal measure, as the children and young people we work with have complex needs. We work as a family of services supporting each other, so our people are equipped to do their jobs well and with confidence.

We offer a friendly and inclusive working environment and the chance to be part of a fantastic multidisciplinary team, who work hard and support each other to deliver personalised, bespoke education & care. Our benefits package includes free parking, shopping discounts and cashback via our ‘Rewards Hub’, and access to content on mindfulness, fitness, recipes and much more as part of our ‘Your Wellbeing Matters’ programme.

As well as opportunities for internal promotion, you will have access to high-quality Continuing Professional Development to help pursue your own personal goals. We also offer accredited training programmes including Diplomas and NVQs, supplemented by ongoing learning opportunities.

Ultimately, all our roles give you the opportunity to enrich the lives of young people and make a positive difference.

The type of jobs we recruit for?

Residential-

- Support worker for days or nights
- Senior support worker for days or nights
- Shift leader for days
- Bank support worker for days or nights
- Health care assistant

School -

- LSA
- Teaching assistant
- SEN teacher