Castle Academy

Castle Academy is a mainstream primary academy for 3-11 year-olds in Northampton. It is part of the East Midlands Academy Trust (EMAT).

Unit Provision

Type: Specialist Unit

Location: Castle Academy, Saint George's Street, Northampton, NN1 2TR

Age Range: EYFS-KS1 (Reception to Year 2)

Primary Area of Need: Communication and Interaction

Children Most Likely to be Considered for Admission

• EHCP with Communication & Interaction needs
• SEND Range 4 profile
• Benefits from small communication-focused class

What Does the Provision Offer?

• Small classroom enviroment
• Teacher + 4 practitioners
• Sensory room
• Quiet room
• Secure outdoor area

Not suitable for children who

• Requires highly specialist provision
• Unable to access any mainstream opportunities

Curriculum and Learning

Adapted curriculum focused on communication and readiness for learning

Mainstream Inclusion

Based on a child’s needs access to phonics, assemblies, PE and curriculum lessons can be coordinated.

Key Things Parents Should Know

·       This is a Communication and Interaction Unit, not an Autism-specific specialist provision.

·       Children remain part of the wider Castle Academy community and are encouraged to access mainstream opportunities where appropriate.

·       The provision offers a highly supportive environment with specialist staff, sensory facilities and communication-focused teaching.

·       Children are expected to be able to engage with some elements of mainstream school life alongside specialist support.

All pupils in the unit provision will have an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) Plan. The Local Authority will have identified their needs as requiring placement at Castle Academy's unit provision.

• EMAT Communication and Interaction Provision (Link)

Resources:

• Castle Academy - SEND Information Report, 2026 (PDF 1,261 KB)

Additional Information

SENCo: Kirsty Craven (kirsty.craven@castle.emat.uk)