AP Education was approached to deliver urgent one-to-one tutoring for a non-verbal learner diagnosed with ASD, who was currently out of education and awaiting placement in a specialist setting.
The goal was to ensure immediate support for the learner’s ongoing development during this period of transition. We acted swiftly. Within 48 hours of receiving the referral, we held a planning meeting with the family and local authority and launched the provision the very next day in the family home. The learner was matched with a highly experienced tutor specialising in non-verbal communication and complex needs.
However, after the initial sessions, C’s parents expressed concerns that the tutor’s style wasn’t quite the right fit for their child’s energetic and playful personality. We responded immediately, holding a review meeting to explore their feedback and agreed that a change in tutor would better support the learner’s progress.
Within the next 48-hour window, we introduced a new tutor, Ruth — someone more dynamic, engaging, and well-matched to the learner’s needs. This transition was handled seamlessly, ensuring that the learner’s routine remained uninterrupted and consistent.
Ruth quickly built a strong relationship with C and family. This foundation of trust and connection allowed the C to thrive, making rapid progress in communication, particularly in nonverbal phonics and the use of PECS cards to express needs and emotions.
Since changing tutors and establishing a trusting relationship with Ruth, C has completely overcome challenges that he never thought he’d be able to tackle.
Through Alternative Provision C has made significant strides in improving his communication skills, showing remarkable progress in nonverbal phonics and consistently using PECS cards to express himself and communicate his feelings more effectively with his parents. Since joining us and building a strong rapport with Ruth, C has successfully integrated into a special school, where he is thriving and confidently reaching his full potential, continuing to make impressive steps in his development.
This case has also contributed to AP Education’s reflective practice, further shaping how we respond to urgent referrals and match tutors to ensure the very best outcomes for learners with diverse and complex needs.
