Frequently Asked Questions

A: Research shows that structured, early support helps children develop communication, learning and independence more effectively. Starting early builds confidence, reduces anxiety and supports long-term well-being.

A: In an autism specialist nursery or school, class sizes are smaller, communication support is embedded in every activity and routines are consistent. In our SEN school, we are able to support nursery age children between 2 to 5 years old and up to the age of 9, this structure helps children feel safe, understood and ready to learn

A: We are an independent specialist SEN primary school provision for children with additional needs. With high staff ratios, individual targets and therapy-integrated teaching, we support both academic and emotional growth. We can support nursery age children between ages of 2 and 5 years old.

A: ABA is an evidence-based approach that uses positive reinforcement and structured teaching to build communication, learning and life skills. In both our specialist nursery and school, ABA principles guide how we teach and support and is always delivered playfully and ethically, with dignity in our school.

A: EIBI is a form of ABA used in early childhood to teach key developmental skills through structured, individualised sessions. Our programmes are ABA-informed and developmentally balanced, blending one-to-one learning with natural play and small-group interaction.

A: Each child’s programme is designed and overseen by Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs) and UKBA(cert) professionals. They work closely with teachers and families to ensure strategies are consistent and motivating both in class and at home.

A: ABA can be adapted for a wide range of learners. At First Bridge Education, we integrate ABA methods within a holistic, therapy-led model that prioritises emotional safety, enjoyment and individual progress.

A: ABA is a professional practice rather than a statutory curriculum. However, First Bridge Education meets all Ofsted and safeguarding regulations, and all ABA programmes are supervised by qualified practitioners.

A: At First Bridge Education, each pupil’s curriculum is bespoke, tailored to their needs, motivations and individual learning trajectory. No two children’s learning pathways are the same. Every pupil is valued, supported and celebrated for their successes and progress, both during their time with us and in preparation for the future.

Our curriculum model integrates each child’s individual therapy programme with the National Curriculum and the wider ethos of our school. Skills are taught both explicitly through small-group or one-to-one intensive teaching sessions, and implicitly through Natural Environment Teaching (NET) and extended learning opportunities throughout the classroom.

A: Our classrooms are sensory friendly with calm zones, movement breaks and flexible routines. Staff help children identify and manage their emotions, building the self-regulation skills they’ll need for lifelong learning.

A: Progress is tracked daily across communication, learning, social and life skills goals. Families receive clear updates through termly meetings and written communication that celebrate achievements and outline next steps.

A: We see families as partners in their child’s journey with us. You’ll receive consistent communication, progress meetings, and access to parent training opportunities so you can use the same strategies at home. Our goal is a united, confident support system for every child.

A: Our Suitability Assessment is an essential step in our admissions process. It’s a friendly, structured process where we observe your child’s communication and learning style. The assessment helps confirm whether our environment is the right match which is key ensuring your child’s education begins from a place of fit and confidence. This is not a diagnostic assessment.
Privately funded places are subject to VAT and a non-refundable assessment fee.

A: No. We welcome admissions enquiries from families still exploring assessments or awaiting diagnoses. We also work with children who already have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), integrating their goals into daily programmes or looking to privately find a place in our school.

A: Transitions are planned carefully, maintaining consistent staff and teaching approaches. The same supportive ethos carries your child from Early Years through to the end of primary school, reducing stress and preserving confidence.

A: The best first step is to speak to our team first and then we can arrange a visit. You’ll see our classes in action, meet with our friendly admissions team and discuss your child’s needs.

A: Every child is different. That’s why our approach is personal and built around your family with the aim of being simple and transparent.  Contact our friendly admissions team to discuss whether your child’s profile. We’ll schedule a visit and our admissions team can discuss if taking the next step and arranging a Suitability Assessment is appropriate, as well as the different funding options.

A: Safeguarding, kindness and dignity are central to our practice. We promote a culture where children’s voices are heard, their choices respected, and their well-being actively monitored every day.

A: We work with you and, where appropriate, local authorities to plan next steps, whether that’s another specialist school, a mainstream setting with support, or continued therapy. Every transition is carefully managed for confidence and continuity.