Emotional, behavioural and developmental difficulties. Fifty two week placements by arrangement, respite care also available during holiday times. The school caters for children who need a high staff ratio and also pupils with a wide range of learning difficulties. Specific medical needs can be catered for.
A modern approach to Rudolf Steiner curriculum linked to the National Curriculum where appropriate. The children are taught in small groups and all have access to individual tuition in certain areas. The therapeutic curriculum includes pottery, music, horse riding, drama, woodwork, sailing, biking and keyboard and computer skills. Children are encouraged to develop to their full potential through many varied activities with a strong emphasis on arts, crafts and sciences. Pupils study for GCSE examinations or a host of similar examinations such as AEB Attainment levels and City and Guilds awards. This children are encouraged to take part in cultural events.
Teaching staff meet D of E requirements and many are Rudolf Steiner trained or experts in their own fields. Staff must have a positive orientation to the Rudolf Steiner approach.
The children have painting therapy and a visiting music teacher for those who want to learn a musical instrument. A speech therapist works regularly with those who need it. Play Therapy and informal counselling is offered and the school has access to the county's psychiatric advisors.
There is a very high ratio of staff to pupils, key house staff are residential thereby providing a very warm and social environment for the pupils to feel at home in. Medical night cover available. The houses operate upon the therapeutic guidelines taken from the caring insights of Rudolf Steiner, and are situated on the main school site and in detached houses close by. The school's OFSTED inspection in 1996 viewed the quality of care provided by all staff as excellent. Senior care staff hold an appropriate mix of qualifications and experience. All house staff follow NVQ courses and a detailed and comprehensive in-house training. The OFSTED team rated the school as providing good value for money.
The school is set amidst rolling hills and is adjacent to National Trust common land in the heart of the Cotswolds. Parents can visit any time by arrangement. Regular interviews are held where parents and other professionals connected to the child, discuss the child's progress with school staff.
