The older pupils (11-16) are educated at the Upper School site near
Biddulph in Staffordshire. The school is located in a large Grade 2
listed building with extensive grounds. Again, the standards of
accommodation and education facilities are high and the unit for the
older pupils is geared to preparing the young people for independent
living and nationally recognised qualifications when they leave the
school. The emphasis throughout is the provision of quality care and
education.
The Unit is a special school accommodating 34 residential pupils
between the ages of 7-16 on a long or short term basis in a variety of accommodation. Its specialism is caring for and educating children and young
people who have severe emotional and/or behavioural difficulties as well
as a history of failed placements.
Upper School also offers a vocational annexe.
This specialist KS4 provision, including multi
purpose workshop (Engineering/motor vehicle based) aims to provide a
“work-related learning environment”. Up to six pupils
will undertake a programme of basic skills, ICT, workshop practice and
social skills, prior to work-experience and possible FE College
placement.
The children are taught through a broad and balanced practical
curriculum which takes full advantage of the Peak District Park and
excellent local amenities. The Lower School is situated in the National
Park itself and the Upper School has the National Park within easy
access.
The aim of the school is to return its pupils to mainstream education
whenever possible. The guidelines laid down by the
National Curriculum are closely followed.
The programmes of education, care and behaviour modification depend very much on the existence and maintenance of an atmosphere and
culture within which children and their families, (where appropriate)
are able to feel secure enough to begin to explore the reasons
underpinning their difficulties.
All children at the school undergo a system of educational assessment
and regular review resulting in Individual Education Plans geared to the
specific needs of each child.
A unique feature of the school is its network of registered Community
Houses (1 - 4 beds) which allows a planned progression from the
residence on the main school buildings to fostering/return to home. Children are able to experience community living at a
pace that is controlled by their individual progress while still
receiving the benefits of the approved education provision.
