Clinical therapy

Students who attend Options Higford are supported by an embedded clinical team comprising of Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and a number of therapy assistants. The input they receive is in line with their EHCP.

The children and young people at Options Higford have complex profiles in terms of diagnosis, difficulties and needs. For this reason, the clinical team are required to have knowledge, skill and experience in applying different recognised approaches in their practice when supporting the children / young people and staff e.g. OFG Education’s ‘Ask, Accept, Develop’ Autism strategy, Trauma Informed Practice, Total Communication, Intensive Interaction.

 

Prior to admission the clinical team are fully involved in the transition planning process. Within the first 12 weeks of full time attendance, an informal Clinical review is carried out to ensure that the young persons presenting needs are in line with their identified EHCP need. Information is gathered to form the core clinical documents in place (Communication Profile, Sensory Motor Profile and Independence Plans where relevant). Progress reviews are carried out annually and corresponding plans and paperwork updated accordingly, in readiness for the EHCP review. Additional specialist clinical assessment is carried out as and when required if a specific emerging need is identified.

 

Throughout their time at Options Higford, children and young people receive support from members of the clinical team which may entail direct or indirect support. Indirect support might include: staff training, mentoring and putting programmes in place for staff to deliver. Direct support might be delivered on a 1:1 or group basis. Consent will be sought from parents / guardians prior to direct pieces of work, with a written plan and goals developed before interventions are delivered.