Our Programs
Spectrum Academy's neurodiversity school programs focus on creating inclusive learning environments for students with neurological differences like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia by fostering awareness, implementing strengths-based approaches, and providing tailored supports.
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Our programs range from Academic (typical structure) to Non academic; Onsite, Online and Hybrid modalities; and training is not just for students at Spectrum but also for our teachers, parents and partners including Neurodiversity affirming and coaching opportunities for Continuing professional development.
We ensure that the inclusive culture of learning at Spectrum Academy has school-wide implementation plan and is tangible in our delivery of classroom curricula. We also believe in balanced learning and include social activities and the establishment of student-led neurodiversity activity clubs.
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As mentioned above, though some of our programs permit the typical academic structure our methodology contain key components of individualized educational instruction, sensory-friendly spaces, visual supports where feasible, movement breaks, structured routines, and collaborative learning, all designed to celebrate neurodivergent strengths and cultivate a sense of belonging for all our students and teachers.
Academic Programs
Secondary School CSEC
(Onsite and Online)
Spectrum Academy offers the CSEC Secondary School Program (Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate), an examination system by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) that assesses secondary school students in our region. Students typically take these exams after four -five years of secondary school to certify their academic achievement, with different proficiency levels (Basic, General, and Technical) offered for various subjects (See our Academic Program for subjects offered at Spectrum Academy). CSEC is recognized internationally and serves as a foundation for further studies or entering the workforce.
CSEC is recognized internationally by educational institutions and professional bodies in Canada and the United States as a high school diploma equivalent. ​Additionally, whilst we are not currently a Cambridge Accredited site, we do offer academic support to students preparing for GCE examinations and support to ensure registration at our affiliated centers for examinations.
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Our academic students also enjoy opportunities to join various clubs and participate in extra curricular activities.
Spectrum Foundations Program
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Pre Secondary School Foundation Year
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Lower Secondary Proficiency Examination (LSPE) - Post Primary/School Leaving Certificate
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Spectrum Foundations - Pre Secondary School program: A 1 year program that allows for students who may have had a gap year out of school or those switching schools or even those who did not write the S.E.A examinations an opportunity to review their core pre secondary school subjects at the Standard 5 level: Mathematics, English Language, Creative Writing, Science and Social studies. This fosters confidence and prepares our students to be ready for the first year of Secondary School. (See more information regarding Spectrum Foundation Year under the Programs tab).
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Spectrum Foundations LSPE Program: In Trinidad and Tobago, the Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (PSLCE) has been replaced by the Lower Secondary Proficiency Examination (LSPE). Spectrum Academy offers the LSPE which provides certification for foundational concepts in primary school subjects. We assess all of our students from enrollment and some by the end of form 1 and no later than form 2 to determine which of our students would be recommended to do the LSPE after which they can join our AEP program. (See more information regarding LSPE under the Programs tab).
Non Academic Program
Alternate Education Program (AEP)
Spectrum Academy's AEP program for our neurodiverse students focus on essential life skills, some technical specialty certifications including horticulture and gardening, culinary and baking skills, arts and crafts in addition to social integration, employment preparation, and overall well-being, more than traditional academic coursework.
The entire program is delivered with coaching and mentoring methods, and practical hands-on opportunities through optional courses in executive functioning and social skills, along with opportunities for peer support and community involvement to help neurodivergent individuals successfully transition into adulthood. (See more about the Academy's AEP in the Programs tab).
Professional Neurodiversity Training
For our teachers, parents and collaborators
These are ongoing opportunities for training / workshops focusing on different aspects of neurodiversity, from foundational awareness and strengths-based approaches to building capacity for effective, strengths-based teaching for work and school-wide implementation of inclusion. Tools like the Learning about neurodiversity at school (LEANS) toolkit provide lesson plans, activities, and resources for introducing neurodiversity concepts to our students. Understanding Autism/ADHD/Dyslexia/Anxiety, coping skills and techniques are offered and many more. (See our training and workshop opportunities tab under Programs.)
Continuing professional development is a requirement for all of our educators at Spectrum Academy.
