About Us
Forest Park School is a very special place which provides for children aged 2-19 with moderate, severe and profound learning difficulties. The school is based on two sites, one mile apart. We have a team of dedicated, talented and skilled professionals who provide a child centered approach which is flexible and responsive to individual needs. We promote a happy, supportive and positive learning environment.TOP- Early Years support
The Thomas Outreach Programme (TOP)
What is TOP?
It is a flexible early intervention service for young children, their families and early year’s settings. It can be provided in the home, at a pre school and in some instances assist with transition into Year R for the first term.
What pupils are eligible?
Any Pupil in their early years school with a social communication difficulty or they are on the autistic spectrum.
Children do not need a formal diagnosis or an EHCP.
How is The Thomas Outreach Programme provided?
The exact programme can vary depending on the individual but likely strategies include:
Visits to school to work with staff to prepare and support the child’s transition
Visits to home to work with the child and parents.
Visits to the Pre-school to help the setting meet the child’s needs
- Flexible time allocation of between 5-15 hours per week per family
What teaching interventions are used?
All teaching interventions used are tailored to match the individual needs of each child.
Teaching strategies are carefully negotiated with parents and pre-school so that they can be used to effectively support the child throughout the day in pre-school and at home.
This way the child gains consistency of support in all settings with all the people in their lives.
What are the aims of The Thomas Outreach Programme?
To provide high quality support and advice to enable pupils with additional needs to meet their potential and feel happy in a setting
- To enable pre school colleagues to understand the nature of the pupils difficulties and to develop their skills and confidence in planning programmes of intervention.
What might the impact be?
Raised confidence in managing a pupil with additional needs
Improved independence.
- A happier child!
What do I do if I think our setting /my child could use The Thomas Outreach Programme?
Contact Oonagh on the school on the primary site number (02380 864949) or email her at OFenemore@forestpark.hants.sch.uk.
You may also be interested to look at the HantsWeb page: The THOMAS approach.
