(UK) Derbyshire: Autism school tuition $100K-$140K/yr per student

July 16, 2023, Derby Telegraph: High Grange School school which specialises in autism rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/high-grange-school-school-specialises-8597856.amp

E. Midlands

A Derbyshire schoolwhich gives pupils "another chance" after they have often missed large periods of education before starting there has been graded "outstanding" by Ofsted following a three-day inspection in June. The independent High Grange School largely caters for young people aged five to 19 who have autism spectrum condition, together with those with other mental health conditions.

The newly-published report from the inspection says that pupils take the chance that the Mickleover school offers "and they flourish". This results in pupils leaving with a broad suite of qualifications, including A levels, GCSEs and functional skills awards.

The inspectors said that the school's staff know "every pupil exceptionally well" and added: "Together, they provide each pupil with a precise, bespoke package. These packages meet pupils’ individual needs. The expert multi-disciplinary team underpins these packages. The team provides vital on-site support. This includes speech and language, occupational therapy and psychology support….

The inspectors picked out the following things that the school does well:

Leaders have ensured that there is a highly ambitious and well-designed curriculum.

Subject specialists ensure that staff have very good subject knowledge. They help teachers to plan effective lessons that ensure pupils are thoroughly engaged.

Leaders have introduced an effective assessment system. Teachers pinpoint exactly where pupils’ gaps in knowledge are. They then use this information to plan for pupils’ next steps. The overwhelming majority of pupils can read confidently and fluently. A small number struggle to read aloud due to their low self-esteem and confidence….

The report says that the vast majority of parents are full of praise for the Hospital Lane school, which opened in 2012. One comment, typical of many, was, "This school has been transformative for my child. A wonderful school with excellent staff."

It also adds that the proprietor Surjit Rai "has ensured that the independent school standards are consistently met". Inspectors said: "The buildings, classrooms, sports hall and swimming pool are maintained to a very high standard. There are showers and appropriate outdoor areas for physical education and recreation. Rigorous checks are carried out to help ensure the health and safety of staff and pupils."

Most of the 75 pupils are referred to the school via local authorities and have an education, health and care plan (EHCP). Annual fees are between £79,512 [$100K] and £104,500 [$137K]. At its last inspection in 2018, the school was judged to be "good".