Level 1
Aspirations at Weston Bay
Level 1
Aspirations at Weston Bay
Weston Bay, part of Weston College is a pioneering facility dedicated to supporting learners on the autism spectrum. It provides residential training and training sessions for students, focusing on promoting independence, social interaction, and practical life skills.
Our approach embraces an autism-specific scheme of learning that goes beyond traditional education, ensuring students learn about the social world while acquiring the knowledge and skills needed for their future.
Our Mission
At Weston Bay, we have high ambitions for all students, recognising the importance of empowering young adults with autism to achieve independence. Our dual curriculum focuses on both academic and social development, adapting learning experiences to meet each student’s unique needs. The emphasis is on helping students navigate the complexities of social, emotional, and communication challenges that they may face in everyday life.
Whether students attend daily, participate in training sessions, engage in transition programmes, or stay as residents, they learn in a supportive yet educationally challenging environment. Our specialist staff are highly trained and experienced, ensuring that students receive tailored support in achieving meaningful progress and independence.
What We Offer
Weston Bay offers individualised programmes tailored to each student’s strengths, needs, and ambitions. These include the following 1-1 and small group sessions:
- Autonomous Living
- Accessing the Community
- Wellbeing and Lifestyle
- Art-Assisted Development
- Drama-Assisted Development
- Autism-Specific Workshops
- Careers Advice and Guidance Workshops
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
- Study and Academic Skills
- Maths and English
Residential Living at Weston Bay
For learners aged 18 and over, Weston Bay offers a residential experience that promotes independent living. Each student has a private en-suite bedroom with access to shared kitchens and communal areas. With 24-hour on-site support from Autism Mentors and Specialists, learners are encouraged to develop their independence through structured events, target setting, and regular progress reviews.
During their stay, students work on the following Independent Living Skills:
- Managing Money and Budgeting
- Meal Planning and Cooking
- Cleaning and Laundry Independent Travel Training
- Time Management and Study Skills
- Social Communication and Interaction
- Health and Well-being
Learners’ progress is monitored using the AET (Autism Education Trust) progression framework, which assesses their development throughout their time at Weston Bay.
Social Skills and Events
Developing social skills is central to the Weston Bay experience. Learners are encouraged to participate in community-based events led by Autism Mentors, designed to boost confidence and social communication. Weekly evening and weekend events provide opportunities for learners to engage with peers, practice social interaction, and build lasting friendships.
All events are tailored to promote social communication, with the skills learned supporting students across different settings, such as further education, work, and residential living environments.
Transition and Induction
The transition into Weston Bay is carefully managed to ensure a smooth adjustment for learners on the autism spectrum. We work closely with students and their families to develop a personalised plan that supports their progression and independence goals.
The transition process includes:
- Initial assessment and student/parent questionnaires
- Meetings and visits with the student and their family
- Structured induction to help students settle into life at Weston Bay
Our comprehensive transition and induction process prepares students for their new learning environment, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.
