About Southfield

Southfield is a primary school for 100 pupils with learning difficulties, including Autism, Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), Global Developmental Delay, and a range of associated conditions.

Admissions are managed through the Local Authority. Pupils attending Southfield are typically working at a significantly lower academic level, with cognitive abilities assessed at approximately 34–50% of their chronological age (in line with Hertfordshire Descriptors, 2022).

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 National Curriculum, carefully adapting both to meet the individual strengths, interests, and needs of each individual pupil. Our curriculum is structured into three progressive phases, ensuring personalised learning pathways for all children.

Our Priorities

• Communication skills

• Self-regulation

• Independence

• Functional literacy and mathematics

• Foundational learning

A wide range of specialist approaches and strategies are used to support learning, including multi-sensory total communication methods, social stories, TEACCH, and Hertfordshire therapeutic thinking principles.

We work collaboratively with a variety of professionals, including Local Authority advisers, therapists, and social care colleagues, to ensure a holistic approach to each child’s development.

In addition, partnerships with sporting and creative arts organisations enrich our curriculum and provide enhanced learning opportunities both within school and in the local community.

Vision and Values

Southfield School Film