St Benedict's Primary School

The Resource Base at St. Benedict’s Primary School is a specialist provision for pupils with Autism and Cognition and Learning needs. It is an important part of our inclusive school community, where every child is valued, supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential. Our work is rooted in our school vision:

 

Opened in September 2024 and expanded in September 2025, the Resource Base consists of two specialist classes for pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) who have been allocated a Resource Base placement by Birmingham Local Authority through the Special Educational Needs and Review Service (SENAR). The Resource Base works closely with our Inclusion Hub and mainstream classes to provide personalised support while promoting meaningful inclusion throughout school life.

 

Our curriculum is carefully tailored to meet each child’s individual needs, helping pupils to develop communication, independence, emotional regulation and learning skills. We use a range of specialist approaches and frameworks, including the Neuroinclusive Education Network (NEN), Cherry Garden Framework, SCERTS and Birmingham Continuum, to ensure every child can make meaningful progress from their starting point.

 

Resource Base 1 provides a highly personalised, sensory-based curriculum, while Resource Base 2 builds on this foundation through programmes such as We Write, We Read, Little Wandle SEND Phonics and Maths No Problem.

The Resource Base is staffed by experienced teachers and teaching assistants who receive regular specialist training and work closely with families and external professionals.

 

Our learning environments include sensory resources, visual supports, communication aids and dedicated spaces designed to promote confidence, independence and wellbeing. Robust risk assessments, care plans and behaviour support systems ensure pupils learn in a safe, nurturing and dignified environment.

 

We believe all children should feel they belong. Pupils in the Resource Base access enrichment activities, educational visits, music, sport, leadership opportunities and, where appropriate, learning alongside their mainstream peers. Through carefully planned inclusion pathways, we support every child to thrive both academically and socially.

 

Beyond the classroom, pupils are encouraged to take part in the full life of the school. Children access a wide range of creative, cultural and sporting opportunities, including music projects with the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, gardening activities, performances, clubs, swimming, football activities through Birmingham City Football Club and inclusive sporting events. These experiences help pupils develop confidence, independence, friendships and a strong sense of belonging within the wider school community.

 

Our inclusive practice has been recognised through a range of external awards, including the Inclusion Quality Mark, Gold Rights Respecting School Award, School of Sanctuary and SEND Co-Production Award.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parents tell us that the Resource Base has had a positive impact on their children's confidence, communication and enjoyment of school. Families value the caring relationships developed with staff, the personalised support provided for each child and the strong partnership between home and school.

During the Inclusion Quality Mark review, parents spoke positively about the support they receive and the opportunities available to engage with school life through meetings, workshops and celebrations.