The Rugeley Horizon School approach is based in 'Daily Life Therapy', which is a 24 hour, holistic approach specifically for children and young people with autism. Physical Education forms the cornerstone of the curriculum. By participating in periods of regular physical exercise throughout the working day, students disperse excess energy and develop the mental and physical composure necessary for them to access the whole curriculum. Students acquire improved levels of emotional stability. Each child learns self-control and the skills to cope with anxiety. The overarching aim of the approach is for children to gain in confidence and self-esteem, to achieve dignity and to develop a level of independence, which will enable them to take their place in society. The school offers day and residential placements for up to 42 weeks a year. Residential pupils live together in small groups in houses off-site within the local community. The school offers the National Curriculum (all subjects) at a level specific to the needs of the child. There is an extensive residential curriculum which supports the development of social skills, independence skills and leisure skills. The school and residential curriculum provide the support necessary for the development of skills in five Global Areas of need, specific to children with autism. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the pupils.