Therapy
We have a team of therapists who help our learners in many different ways. Our team includes Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Therapy Assistants.
They work together to make sure every learner gets the support they need. We also work with other experts, such as music therapists.
The therapy team at Doucecroft has strong links with local universities and often offers placements for students studying to become therapists.
A Collaborative Approach
A Collaborative Approach The therapy team works closely with all the school staff and the well-being team to provide the best care for each learner.
We put our learners at the centre of everything we do.
We focus on each learner’s strengths and create a safe, supportive space for them to grow.
We know that to learn well, our learners need to feel happy and supported.
We use a fun, play-based approach to help learners stay engaged and excited about learning.
The “Pyramid of Development,” created by Taylor and Trott in 1991, shows that the first step to learning is making sure a learner’s senses are working well together.
When sensory systems are in balance, it helps learners with all other skills, including communication and thinking.
Therapeutic Support
Therapeutic Support Every learner at Doucecroft gets a full assessment when they join the school.
The therapy team then creates a plan that includes clear, helpful recommendations for what each learner needs.
We use a system called SCERTS, which helps with emotional regulation and social communication. This system is used to guide how we teach and support learners.
We know that each learner is different:
We plan lessons that fit their needs, interests, and goals. We use each learner’s Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) to set clear targets for their learning.
In addition to academics, we also focus on developing key life skills, such as communication, social understanding, and emotional control.
For learners with autism, we use the SCERTS Framework, which is a method designed to help learners communicate better and manage their emotions. This framework works alongside other methods to give learners the best chance to succeed.
Here are some of the therapies and support we provide:
- Advice and support for learners, staff, and parents.
- Sensory diets and motor programs to help learners manage their senses.
- Programs for self-regulation, like the Zones of Regulation and relaxation techniques.
- Sensory activities like Tac Pac, gym trails, and sensory stimulation programs.
- Communication support, including the use of PECS (Picture Exchange
- Communication System), Makaton signing, and voice-output devices.
- Help with fine motor skills and handwriting.
- Support for gross motor skills through activities in PE or gym trail programs.
- Social skills training and interaction support, such as Intensive Interaction, social stories, and Lego Therapy.
The therapy team works together with teachers and other staff to make sure that the individual needs of each learner are met and included in their termly targets.
Meet the Therapy Team
Here are some of the main therapists and assistants who work at Doucecroft:
Michelle Garrad-Knott – Head of Therapy and Community Services
Josie Blackmore – Specialist Occupational Therapist
Sandie Martin – Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
Laura Hill – Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
Lauren Foley – Specialist Occupational Therapist
Laura Platt – Speech and Language Therapist
Tia Aikman – Speech and Language Therapist
Ellen Franklin – Apprentice Occupational Therapist
Our Therapy Assistants
Many of the therapy activities are carried out by our skilled therapy assistants.
They work with the teaching teams to help learners use different therapeutic approaches in the classroom. Some of the approaches they use include Gym Trails, Tac Pac, Attention Autism, and Lego Therapy.
Meet some of our amazing therapy assistants:
Alicia Napthine
Anna Kerr
Phil Preston
Vahri Lane
Kyra Nell
How We Help Learners
Our therapy team uses many different methods to support learners, including:
Sensory Integration: Helps learners manage their senses.
Anxiety Management: Supports learners with feelings of anxiety.
Play-Based Therapy: Uses play to help learners grow.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: Helps learners understand their thoughts and feelings.
Attention Autism: A fun way to develop attention and social skills.
Makaton and PECS: Communication methods for learners who need extra help.
Music Therapy: Helps learners express themselves through music.
Getting the Right Help
The therapy team works with each learner to create a plan for the year. This plan is reviewed regularly to make sure it is helping the learner. If needed, we offer more specialized support or interventions, but all learners get a basic level of therapy to help them thrive.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please get in touch.
Contact UsAdmissions
You can find all the information about joining Doucecroft School, including how to apply and visit, on our admissions page.
Learn moreOfsted Reports
View our Ofsted Reports here and Parents can also express their views and concerns to help us further improve our services.
Learn moreSafeguarding
For important information about safeguarding in our school, please visit our dedicated safeguarding page.
Learn moreGeneral Information For Parents and Carers
Find out general information Parent and Carers need to know here.
Learn moreSchool lunches
Here you can check out our weekly lunch menus, we include visuals to aid students visualise what they can order.
Learn moreFAQs
What are the 2024/2025 term dates?
Autumn Term 2024: 4th September – 20th December.Half term: 28th October – 1st November. Additional training days: 2nd / 3rd September and 25th October. Non pupil days: 20th December.
Spring Term 2025: 6th January – 4th April. Half term: 17th February – 21st February. Non-Pupil Days: 13th, 14th February and 4th April.
Summer Term 2025: 22nd April to 22nd July. Half Term: 26th May – 30th May 2025. May Bank Holiday: 5th May 2025. Non-Pupil Days: 2nd June 2025
How can I order uniform?
You can download our uniform and PE kit order forms and return them to office in person or by email.
How can I request a leave of absence for my child?
You can request time off for your child by completing our form: Student Absence Request Form You can return it to the school office in person or you can email it to doucecroft@autism-anglia.org.uk
What are the lunch menus?
You can view and download our weekly lunch menus.
Where can I get information and support for my child and our family?
Autism Anglia's Resource Hub is packed full of advice, information and support guides. It's free for everyone and you can access it online at any time.
What is the latest news and events?
There's always lots of exciting things happening at Doucecroft. You can read about our latest news stories or head over to our calendar to view upcoming events and activities.
