A specialist school which supports over 100 autistic children is said to have a “clear vision” in an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted report.

TreeHouse School in Muswell Hill has retained its ‘outstanding’ rating after a two-day visit in June this year.

The report published on Tuesday (September 10) said the school is “determined” to provide students wit the “best all-round social and academic education that it can”.

Founded in 1997, TreeHouse is run by the national charity Ambitious about Autism and supports over 100 autistic pupils aged three to 19.

Inspectors said the school provides individualised teaching and “highly effective” therapeutic provisions to help them with their education.

The report said: “Pupils are thus exceptionally well supported to develop the knowledge and skills that they need to lead successful and meaningful lives.”

Staff are said to have expertise to foresee and take pre-emptive calming action when children get anxious.

One example provided says that staff take pupils for a short break if they begin to get dysregulated, and are then helped to return to class shortly after.

Outside TreeHouse SchoolOutside TreeHouse School (Image: TreeHouse School)

The report continued: “The school has put much thought into designing a highly ambitious curriculum for all.

“It is meticulously focused on meeting the needs of pupils, all of whom have autism. The school is very adept at flexing its curriculum to respond to the changing needs of cohorts.”

Children are taught to apply their knowledge ands kills in practical contexts, including their day-to-day living – such as applying their maths knowledge to shop for ingredients and then using this for cooking lessons.

Ofsted said: “Pupils who initially struggle with behaviour are given expert support.

“Consequently, they become much more able to manage their behaviour. They learn to build resilience, confidence and independence.

“They also learn how to interact positively with their peers and when in the wider community.”

Joanna Dziopa, head of TreeHouse School, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the outstanding work taking place at TreeHouse School to help autistic pupils be themselves and realise their ambitions. 

“I’m particularly pleased that the report recognised the work of our incredible staff team for the care and commitment they show to our pupils every day. I would like to thank them for their continuing hard work and dedication.”