Bradford Beacon School is a specialist day school for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 with a diagnosis of autism, often alongside complex learning needs, communication difficulties, and sensory processing challenges.
All of our pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and we welcome learners from a range of local authorities.
As a school tailored to the needs of pupils with autism, our mission is to support each pupil to make the maximum possible progress in areas typically impacted; including social communication, emotional regulation, and sensory processing. We recognise that every child is unique, and we work closely with families, carers, and professionals to deliver an individualised, meaningful education.
The curriculum at Bradford Beacon is broad, balanced, and varied, providing pupils with rich, engaging learning experiences that are highly personalised to their needs and interests. It is shaped by a number of trusted frameworks, including:
- EYFS Development Matters
- National Curriculum
- Equals Curriculum
- PSHE Association Planning Framework for Pupils with SEND
- Autism Education Trust’s Pupil Progression Framework
This blend of guidance ensures that our curriculum remains developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and responsive to each pupil’s stage of learning.
Learning at Bradford Beacon happens both inside and outside the classroom. Every moment of the school day is considered part of the curriculum. From structured lessons to social interactions, play, and real-life learning opportunities. Teachers, support staff and the clinical team work collaboratively to design and deliver a curriculum that supports attainment, personal development, and long-term independence.
We also embrace opportunistic learning, those moments that arise naturally throughout the day. Staff are trained to recognise and build upon these opportunities, in line with the autism-specific focus of our curriculum framework, making every experience purposeful.
Our Vision for Pupils
Our aim is not only to help our pupils to acquire knowledge and skills but to ensure they can generalise and apply these across a range of settings and situations. Above all, we are committed to helping every pupil leave Bradford Beacon School with the highest possible level of independence and autonomy, whether that means managing sensory and emotional needs, making informed choices, communicating effectively or confidently pursuing personal interests and life goals.
Promoting Values and Respect
We are firmly committed to promoting core British Values:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
Through our PSHE and RSE curriculum, we actively support pupils to understand and respect diversity. We promote equality and inclusion, placing a strong emphasis on empathy and respect for those who may be vulnerable to discrimination.