4770 NATSPEC Directory Printed Version Sept 2016 v6

Colleges
directory

2017 & 2018

Welcome

Welcome to the Natspec Colleges Directory, the guide to all our
member colleges and organisations.

Natspec is the membership association for the principles outlined in the Children and Families
organisations which offer specialist provision Act which was introduced in 2014. This important
for students with learning difficulties and legislation gives all young people with learning
disabilities. We act as the voice for specialist difficulties or disabilities a right to an education that
further education, and our vision is for all young meets their needs and helps them to progress.
people with learning difficulties or disabilities to The Act means that young people and their families
access high quality education and training, which are able to:
meets their individual needs and supports their • receive impartial information and advice about all
aspirations for skills, work and life.
the options available, including specialist colleges;
Our members offer day or residential provision • b e closely involved in putting together an
for students aged 16-25, giving young people
the chance to develop skills, become more Education, Health and Care Plan;
independent and to learn in an exciting • request a place at the college of their choice and
environment with personal support. They have
inter-disciplinary specialist support and expertise have their views taken into account.
which enables students to make a successful We hope you find this directory a useful guide to
transition to adult life. Natspec colleges.

We believe that young people with learning Clare Howard
difficulties or disabilities should be encouraged to Natspec Chief Executive
have high aspirations for the future, and should be
able to choose the college that will best enable
them to achieve their goals. This is consistent with

0115 8541322 www.natspec.org.uk @Natspec /Natspeccolleges

About this directory 86% of Natspec learners

This directory gives a brief description of each college with contact details, are in good or outstanding
location, course length, numbers of students and whether the provision is for colleges
day students, residential students, or both. You can find a full list of the colleges
on pages 6 and 7, listed by geographic region. Alternatively, find each college 95% of students in Natspec
by alphabetical order throughout the directory, colour-coded by region.
colleges say they get the
Further details about each college, including more information about support they need from staff
their curriculum and areas of expertise, can be found on our website:
www.natspec.org.uk/directory. You can request a prospectus from each
college by completing a form at the bottom of their website entry page.

Natspec colleges work

with an average of

10 employers

97% of employers rate

their relationships with Natspec
colleges as good or outstanding

Natspec colleges run

144 businesses

that are open to the public –
including food outlets, hospitality,
sport and leisure facilities, printing
services and retail

3

What our students and their families say...

Every year our member “When Emma started “I f God “Since coming to
colleges give young people at Henshaws Specialist created National Star I am
with disabilities and learning College her confidence heaven on much more
difficulties the opportunity to was low and she Earth, this self-confident and
develop skills, become more struggled to express place would have become better
independent and to learn in herself. Now her be it.” at managing my
an exciting environment with speech is fantastic. time. Having regular
personal support. Hearing Emma sing at Dominic physiotherapy has
the Christmas fair was made a big difference
Here is just a small selection amazing. I can’t praise for me.”
of comments from students them enough.”
and their families. Kyle
Geraldine (Emma’s mum)
To read other stories of
students’ success please go
to the colleges’ individual
websites.

4

“A t RNC I feel like I “I loved staying in “I feel happy and “The work placements
am in the right place. Stan Bell. It’s taught confident and really boosted my
Since being here I have me how to clean, I have learnt confidence and
progressed at my main shop and cook and how to catch a meant that I felt a lot
programmes better helped me become bus. I have been more comfortable
than I would have at more independent. making friends communicating with
my mainstream school. I like the college where I work.“ people. I want to
This is because of the enterprises, the Bell thank the college for
amount of support that Bar is my favourite.” James all that they have done
I have received. At RNC to help me get this far.”
I have found my voice.” Jade
Sarah
Laura

5

Member Colleges – listed by region

Northern Ireland Yorkshire & The Humber ■ Hereward College p.22

■ The Thomas Doran Trust - Parkanaur ■ Communication Specialist College p.14 ■ New College Worcester p.27

College p.39 ■ Freeman College p.20 ■ Queen Alexandra College (QAC) p.30

North East ■ Henshaws Specialist College p.21 ■ Regent College p.31

■ Hesley Group Independent Specialist ■ Royal National College for the Blind p.33

■ Cambian Dilston College p.11 Colleges p.22 ■ Strathmore College p.37

■ ESPA College p.17 ■ Linkage College p.25 ■ Wilson Stuart UCB Partnership Trust

■ Hedleys College p.21 ■ Pennine Camphill Community p.28 (WSUCBPT) p.43

■ Thornbeck College - North East
Autism Society p.40
East Midlands Wales

North West ■ Homefield College p.23 ■ Beechwood College p.10
■ Landmarks p.23
■ Portland College p.29 ■ Cambian Pengwern College p.12
■ RNIB College Loughborough p.31
■ Activate p.8 ■ Coleg Elidyr p.14

■ Arden College p.9 ■ Priory Colleges of North & South Wales p.30

■ Beaumont College, Scope p.9

■ Bridge College p.10 West Midlands East of England

■ Chatsworth Futures p.13 ■ Calthorpe Vocational Centre ■ Sense College
■ Condover College Ltd ■ St Elizabeth’s College
■ David Lewis College p.15 ■ Derwen College p.11 p.34
■ Glasshouse College p.15 p.35
■ Langdon College p.24 p.16
p.20
■ Royal College Manchester p.32

■ Wargrave House LEAP p.41

6

Colleges are listed alphabetically throughout the directory

London & South East ■ Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy p.19 The Regions

■ Ambitious College p.8 ■ Foxes Academy p.19 Regional boundaries shown are approximate.

■ Dorton College for Further Education p.16 ■ Lifeworks College p.24 Regions coincide with those of Ofsted.

■ Minstead Training Trust p.25 ■ National Star College p.26 ■ Northern Ireland ■ West Midlands
■ North East ■ Wales
■ Nash College p.26 ■ Oakwood Court College p.27 ■ North West ■ East of England
■ Yorkshire & The ■ London & South East
■ Orchard Hill College p.28 ■ Priory College Swindon p.29 Humber ■ South West
■ East Midlands
■ St John’s School & College p.35 ■ ROC - Life Skills College p.32

■ St Piers College, Young Epilepsy p.36 ■ Ruskin Mill College p.33

■ The John Dewey Independent ■ Sheiling College p.34

Specialist College p.38 ■ St Rose’s (Post 16) and St Martin’s

■ The Mount Camphill Community p.38 (Post 19) p.36

■ The Orpheus Centre p.39 ■ Stratford Lodge p.37

■ Treloar College p.40 ■ UET p.41

■ WESC Foundation p.42

South West ■ William Morris College p.42

■ Cambian Lufton College p.12

■ Cambian Wing College p.13

■ Exeter Royal Academy for Deaf The contents of this directory are not to be construed as
Education p.17 terms of a contract, and are intended for information and
guidance purposes only. The descriptions of members’
■ Fairfield Farm College p.18 provision are written by the members.

■ Farleigh FE College p.18 Inspection reports are available on the following websites:
Ofsted – www.ofsted.gov.uk
Care Quality Commission – www.cqc.org.uk

7

Activate Ambitious College

Activate is a specialist training provider. Ambitious College is London’s only registered
We work with young adults who have a wide specialist college dedicated specifically to
range of support needs. Our personalised supporting young people with complex autism
educational/vocational courses are tailored to into adult life.
meet the needs of each learner. We focus on
helping young people to develop further life Ambitious College enables learners to gain
skills and independence. the knowledge and skills needed to transition
successfully to adulthood and to live, work and
contribute in their community.

Ambitious College is run by Ambitious about
Autism.

Description Course dates www.activateces.org.uk Description Course dates www.ambitiouscollege.org.uk
We are a specialist provider September to July Tel: 0151 545 1279 Ambitious College is a September to July Tel: 020 3870 8775
offering educational and Maximum number of [email protected] specialist day college Maximum number of [email protected]
vocational programmes students dedicated to supporting students
for people with additional 70 Bracknell Avenue young people with 46 - across two campuses Ambitious College,
needs Age range Southdene complex autism Age range Pears Campus at The College of
19 - 24 years Kirkby Course length 16 - 25 years Haringey,
Course length Other locations L32 9PW 40 weeks per year Other locations Enfield and North East London,
Approximately 37 weeks Birkenhead Residential or day West London Campus, Town Hall Approach Road,
per year Day c/o West Thames College, Tottenham Green,
London Road, Isleworth London N15 4RX
Residential or day TW7 4HS
Day

8

Arden College Beaumont College, Scope

Arden College provides residential and day Beaumont College offers both residential and
placements tailored to meet the individual day programmes in Lancaster, while our satellite
needs of students with learning difficulties services offer individuals a learning programme
or disabilities and/or behavioural and social that is delivered closer to home. Information
difficulties. about our satellites in Barrow, Blackpool, and
Carlisle is available upon request. All of our
Programmes aim to maximise student college sites offer programmes for young
opportunities for future life by developing people aged 18-25 with a broad range of
independent living skills and communication, physical and/or learning difficulties.
and by offering vocational training and
opportunities to develop social and community
skills.

Description Course dates www.priorygroup.com Description Maximum number of www.beaumontcollege.ac.uk
Specialist college Enrolment usually in Tel: 01704 534433 Beaumont College offers students Tel: 01524 541400
supporting vocational September [email protected] person-centred education Up to 60 residential [email protected]
training and the Maximum number of programmes for students places; 40 day places
development of students 40 Derby Road in Lancaster, Carlisle, at the Lancaster site; Slyne Road
communication and 45 maximum Southport Barrow and Blackpool 12+ at Carlisle site; 12+ Lancaster
independent living skills Age range Merseyside Course length at Blackpool site; 12+ at LA2 6AP
Course length 16 - 25 years PR9 0TZ 38 weeks per year Barrow site
38 and 52 week, full and Other locations Residential or day Age range
part-time placements N/A Residential and day 18 - 25 years
Residential or day Course dates Other locations
Residential and day September start Barrow, Blackpool, Carlisle

9

Beechwood College Bridge College

Specialist FE college providing residential Bridge College students receive bespoke
care dedicated to students 16+ with Autistic learning programmes that meet their needs.
Spectrum Condition, Asperger’s Syndrome as Multi-disciplinary assessments ensure they follow
well as moderate, severe and profound learning educational pathways that promote learning.
difficulties and challenging behaviours. The We work hard with students, their families
college offers accredited and non-accredited and external partners to ensure they have
courses across a broad curriculum. We offer opportunities for further learning, community
onsite clinical therapy to students (subject inclusion and better life outcomes. We provide
to funding): speech and language therapy, work experience, volunteering and enterprise
occupational therapy, dietetics, physiotherapy opportunities and support the development of
and clinical psychology. independence skills.

Description the college can take www.beechwoodcollege.co.uk Description Maximum number of www.togethertrust.org.uk/
Specialist FE College with students at any time of Tel: 02920 532210 Profound and multiple students bridge-college
residential care for young the year [email protected] learning disabilities, 96 full time students plus Tel: 0161 487 4293
people with autism and communication disorders, part-time and blended [email protected]
associated difficulties Maximum number of Hayes Road complex health needs, programmes in partnership
students Sully autism with other providers Openshaw Campus
Course length 57 residential and limited Vale of Glamorgan Whitworth Street
38 to 52 weeks per year day placements CF64 5SE Course length Age range Manchester M11 2GR
37 weeks per year 16 - 25 years
Residential or day Age range
Residential and day 16+ years Residential or day Other locations
Day college N/A
Course dates Other locations
Flexible - academic year N/A Course dates
starts in September but Courses start in September

10

Calthorpe Vocational Centre Cambian Dilston College

Calthorpe Vocational Centre launched in Cambian Dilston College provides further
September 2014. It is a full time day provision education for learners with moderate to severe
that provides individualised learning learning disabilities. A wide range of full-time
experiences that develop key employability and short courses in subject areas including
and supported living skills for students with catering, land-based studies and art, are offered
moderate/severe and ASD needs. to meet learners’ individual needs and interests.

Calthorpe Vocational Centre was graded as Life skills programmes and specialised
‘good’ with ‘outstanding’ outcomes by Ofsted accommodation encourage increased
in 2015. independence and promote successful
transitions to adult life.

Description Maximum number of www.calthorpevc.org.uk Description Course dates www.cambiangroup.com
Independence in work students Tel: 0121 359 1714 Specialist further Mainly September but Tel: 01434 632692
and life 30 [email protected] education college for throughout the academic [email protected]
Course length Age range young people with year if places are available
3 Years 19 - 25 years 19a Cato Street learning difficulties/ Maximum number of Dilston Hall
Residential or day Other locations Nechells disabilities, autism and students Corbridge
Day N/A Birmingham complex needs 60 Northumberland
Course dates B7 4TS Course length Age range NE45 5RJ
September to July, 5 days From 38 weeks to 52 16 - 25 years
a week weeks per year Other locations
Residential or day N/A
Residential and day

11

Cambian Lufton College Cambian Pengwern College

Cambian Lufton College is a specialist provider Cambian Pengwern College is a specialist
of further education, offering day and up to further education college in North Wales,
52-week residential placements for young offering day, and up to 52-week residential
people aged 16 to 25 with a learning disability placements for young people aged 16 to 25
and complex needs. The college’s person- with a learning disability and complex needs.
centred approach ensures that learners have
personalised study programmes and moving- The college’s person-centred approach
on curriculum, developed to effectively match ensures that learners have individualised
their needs, personal decisions and future study programmes, developed to effectively
aspirations. match their needs, personal choices and future
aspirations.

Description Course dates www.cambiangroup.com Description Course dates www.cambiangroup.com
Specialist further Admissions throughout Tel: 0800 138 1184 Specialist further Admissions throughout Tel: 0800 138 1184
education college for the year [email protected] education college for the academic year [email protected]
young people with a Maximum number of young people with a Maximum number of
learning disability and students Lufton learning disability and students Sarn Lane
complex needs 120 Yeovil complex needs 60 Rhuddlan
Course length Age range Somerset Course length Age range Denbighshire
From 38 weeks to 52 16 - 25 years BA22 8ST From 38 weeks to 52 16 - 25 years LL18 5UH
weeks per year Other locations weeks per year Other locations
Residential or day N/A Residential or day N/A
Residential and day Residential and day

12

Cambian Wing College Chatsworth Futures

Cambian Wing College is a specialist day and Chatsworth Futures is a special college in
residential college for learners with Asperger’s Salford for people aged 19 to 25 with severe
syndrome and associated conditions. By learning disabilities, profound and multiple
providing person-centred study programmes, learning disabilities and autism spectrum
the college ensures that every learner achieves conditions. We provide a small, supportive
their personal best. and challenging environment to empower and
enable learners to develop functional skills,
Learners are given the opportunity to access independence, communication and skills for
academic and vocational study, work-related living, using practical learning activities and
training and experience, as well as develop the realistic contexts in which to learn, develop and
independence skills needed for their adult lives. grow.

Description Course dates www.cambiangroup.com Description Course dates www.chatsworth.salford.sch.uk
A specialist residential and Admissions throughout Tel: 01202 635630 Chatsworth Futures is a Courses start in Tel: 0161 707 1417
day college for learners the year [email protected] day college in Salford for September and [email protected]
with Asperger’s syndrome Maximum number of young people with severe throughout the year Chatsworth Road
and associated conditions students 126 Richmond Park Road learning difficulties Maximum number of Eccles, Salford
Course length 46 Bournemouth Course length students Greater Manchester
From 38 to 52 weeks per Age range Dorset 38 weeks per year 25 M30 9DY
year 16 - 25 years BH8 8TH Residential or day Age range
Residential or day Other locations Day provision 19 - 25 years 13
Residential and day N/A Other locations
N/A

Coleg Elidyr Communication Specialist College Doncaster

Coleg Elidyr provides a rural environment for Individualised programmes of study in
improving lives through learning and skills. vocational areas are delivered in real work
Practical and vocational activities allow students environments. We have a multi-disciplinary
to build their knowledge and essential and life approach with on-site therapists and specialist
skills for increased independence. Accredited staff. Students develop social and independence
units and work experiences are integral to skills in college and the community. Students are
person-centred timetables. The college supports guided into their future lives with skills to reach
a 24 hour curriculum with real work experiences their goals and aspirations.
integral to both the Education and Trainee
Programmes.

Description Course dates www.colegelidyr.com Description Course dates www.cscdoncaster.co.uk
Coleg Elidyr provides a September to July Tel: 01550 760400 Specialist provision Enrolment throughout the Tel: 01302 386700
safe rural environment for Maximum number of [email protected] in relation to hearing year [email protected]
improving lives through students impairment, autism, Maximum number of
learning and skills 53 Rhandirmwyn learning disabilities and students Leger Way
Course length Age range Llandovery other communication 200 maximum Doncaster
37 week Education 18 - 25 years on admission SA20 0NL needs Age range South Yorkshire
Programme, 41 week Other locations Course length 16 - 60 years DN2 6AY
Trainee Programme N/A 38 weeks per year Other locations
Residential or day Residential or day N/A
Residential and day Residential and day

14

Condover College David Lewis College

We specialise in creating individual learning David Lewis College offers an holistic learning
programmes for students with severe, environment for young people with moderate-
profound and multiple learning difficulties, complex learning difficulties, neurological
autism and those who have behaviours which conditions (including epilepsy and autism),
challenge inclusion. We offer high quality study associated behaviours and communication
programmes incorporating: independence, work difficulties. Our multi-disciplinary approach
and community engagement, employability provides on-site therapists, medical specialists,
opportunities, health and wellbeing, functional specially trained staff and excellent facilities.
skills, communication, and personal and social We are situated on a spacious campus in rural
development. Educational programmes can also Cheshire, close to local towns and Manchester.
be offered through a Sensory Curriculum.

Description Course dates www.condovercollege.co.uk Description Course dates www.davidlewis.org.uk
We provide education September to July Tel: 01743 872250 Moderate-complex 38 weeks per year Tel: 01565 640 000
for students with severe, Maximum number of [email protected] learning difficulties, Maximum number of [email protected]
profound and multiple students neurological conditions students Mill Lane, Warford
learning difficulties and 35 The Grafton Centre (including epilepsy and 90 Nr Alderley Edge
autism Age range Grafton, Nr Montford Bridge autism) Age range Cheshire
Course length 18 - 25 years Shrewsbury Course length 16 - 25 years SK9 7UD
38 weeks per year Other locations Shropshire SY4 1HF Up to 52 week residential Other locations
Residential or day N/A Residential or day N/A 15
Residential and day Residential, weekly
boarder and day

Derwen College Dorton College for Further Education

Derwen College achieved a third consecutive Dorton College, based in the London Borough
‘Outstanding’ Ofsted grading in 2016. The of Bromley, works in partnership with high
college promotes the vocational, educational, performing mainstream colleges to provide a
social and personal development of a wide range of personalised learning programmes
range of young people with learning difficulties from entry level 1 to level 3. Integral to this is
and disabilities, this is achieved through the teaching of skills for living independently
personalised learning. Derwen College offers and in developing confidence and resilience
residential and day placements, a post-college in preparation for adulthood. The students are
living and work programme, apprenticeships supported in all their learning by experienced
and supported internships. staff with specialist VI support skills.

Description admissions each term DerwenCollege Description Course dates www.rlsb.org.uk/college
Vocational programmes Maximum number of Dorton College is a Term time Tel: 020 3198 0225
building employability students www.derwen.ac.uk residential college Maximum number of [email protected]
skills through real work 250 Tel: 01691 661234 supporting students with students
experience Age range [email protected] vision impairment, some 30 RLSB
Course length 16+ years with additional needs Age range 52-58 Arcola Street
37 weeks per year Other locations Whittington Road Course length 16 - 25 years London
Residential or day Wrexham, Walford, Gobowen 38 weeks per year Other locations E8 2DJ
Residential and day Craven Arms Oswestry Residential or day Bromley
Course dates SY11 3JA Residential
Main academic intake
September, with other

16

ESPA College Exeter Royal Academy for Deaf Education

ESPA College, based in Sunderland and The Deaf Academy’s residential and day FE
Newcastle, provides residential and day college aims to ensure all our Deaf students
education for young people with autism or achieve their full potential and develop self-
Asperger’s syndrome. confidence, self-esteem and independence.

We are committed to providing a high quality, Our broad curriculum is tailored to meet
autism specific educational experience - to individual student needs and aspirations.
enable students to maximise their potential for A wide range of courses are taught on-site and
future life, wellbeing and work. We offer a range in partnership with mainstream colleges.
of teaching strategies to meet the unique needs
of students with autism. Students progress onto university, employment,
supported employment or supported living.

Description Course dates www.espa.org.uk Description Course dates www.exeterdeafacademy.ac.uk
We cater for students on Courses start in September Tel: 0191 510 2611 Education and care in a Enrolment in September, Tel: 01392 267023
the autism spectrum, with Maximum number of [email protected] bilingual, BSL and English, contact admissions for [email protected]
Asperger’s syndrome and students environment. Curriculum alternative start dates 50 Topsham Road
associated difficulties 110 6-7 The Cloisters tailored to each individual Maximum number of Exeter
Course length Age range Ashbrooke Course length students Devon
38 weeks per year 16 - 30 (14 - 16 year old day Sunderland 36 weeks per year 80 EX2 4NF
(50 week residential places considered) SR2 7BD Residential or day Age range
placements considered) Other locations Residential and day 16 - 24 years 17
Residential or day N/A Other locations
Residential and day N/A

Fairfield Farm College Farleigh FE College, Frome

Set on a 26-acre farm, the college provides Farleigh Further Education College Frome
personalised training courses to meet the offers residential and day provision for learners
needs of our young people, preparing them aged 16 to 25, with Asperger’s syndrome and
for adulthood. Students learn vocational associated conditions.
skills in engineering, farming, horse studies,
horticulture, outdoor learning and art. In the The College has a number of houses within the
college’s shop, cafe, kitchen, reception and local community and provides opportunities for
conference room they learn real employability developing independence and social skills.
skills. Independence skills are learnt both within
college and the community. “The College offers an unusually broad and
varied curriculum which meets the needs of all
learners.” - Ofsted 2013

Description Course dates www.ffc.ac.uk Description Course dates www.priorygroup.com
Vocational and September start Tel: 01373 866066 A day and residential September - July Tel: 01373 475470
independence training for but flexible in-year [email protected] college for young adults Maximum number of [email protected]
young people with learning programmes available with Asperger’s syndrome students
disabilities, including autistic Maximum number of 43 High Street and Autistic spectrum 85 North Parade
spectrum disorders students Dilton Marsh conditions Age range Frome
60 Westbury Course length 16 - 25 years Somerset
Course length Age range BA13 4DL 38 weeks per year Other locations BA11 2AB
38 weeks per year (52 16 - 24 years Residential or day Shepton Mallet, Trowbridge
week programmes are Other locations Residential and day
available) N/A

Residential or day
Residential and day

18

Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy Foxes Academy

The Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy (FCRT) is Foxes Academy is an Ofsted Outstanding
an Independent Specialist Provider. residential college. Our unique educational
and vocational training in a hotel that’s open to
Included in the provision is the residential the public ensures young people gain skills to
Further Education Through Horsemastership achieve and maintain high levels of employment,
(FETH) Course for young people with learning and supported independent living.
difficulties and disabilities, who have a desire
to learn in an equine environment. Teaching is Our aim is to provide a personalised, individual
horse-based and learning is through the transfer learning experience giving every student the
of skills. best possible future.

Description Course dates www.fortunecentre.org Description Course dates www.foxesacademy.ac.uk
Teaching communication, Course starts in September Tel: 01425 673297 The specialist college and Courses start in September Tel: 01643 708529
numeracy, literacy and Maximum number of [email protected] training hotel for young Maximum number of [email protected]
independent living skills students people with learning students
through horse motivated 38 maximum Avon Tyrrell disabilities 84 Foxes Fields
learning Age range Bransgore Course length Age range Selbourne Place
Course length 16 - 25 years Christchurch 38 week provision. Up 16 - 24 years Minehead
38 weeks per year Other locations Dorset BH23 8EE to 52 week provision Other locations Somerset TA24 5TY
Residential or day N/A including respite N/A
Residential Residential or day
Residential

19

Freeman College Glasshouse College

Freeman is a one-of-a-kind provision that Glasshouse College is an independent
successfully delivers a holistic practical and specialist college for young adults with learning
therapeutic curriculum in a real-life and mature difficulties and behavioural issues. As part
environment. Every student has a bespoke of Ruskin Mill Trust, our students receive
pathway preparing them for the next stages in Practical Skills Therapeutic Education - a craft
their own lives. We use craft-based sessions to and land-based curriculum. We aim to teach
help students build confidence, self-esteem, our young people valuable, transferable life
independence, decision-making skills, work- skills and independence, which allows them
readiness and employment skills. to access further education, supported living
accommodation, and/or work.

Description Course dates www.rmt.org Description Course dates www.rmt.org
Integrated Learning Enrol all year round Tel: 0114 252 5953 Independent specialist September to July Tel: 01384 399400
for Living and Work Maximum number of [email protected] college for young Maximum number of [email protected]
Programme - Practical students adults with learning and students
Skills and Education 65 88 Arundel Street behavioural difficulties 80 Wollaston Road
Curriculum Age range Sheffield Course length Age range Amblecote
Course length 16 - 24 years S1 2NG 36 weeks per year 16 - 19 years (or up to 25 Stourbridge
From 36 to 52 weeks per Other locations Residential or day with EHCP) DY8 4HF
year N/A Residential and day Other locations
Residential or day N/A
Residential and day

20

Hedleys College Henshaws Specialist College

Hedleys College is a high quality specialist We support young people living with disability to
further education and training provider for go beyond expectations. Our study programmes
young people with a range of learning difficulties will develop your independence, employability,
and disabilities who require specialist individual personal and social skills. Your programme will
programmes to develop their communication, be designed around your needs to prepare you
independence and employability skills to make for life after college. Specialist disability support
a successful transition into adulthood. Students services, including therapies and assistive
are supported by the interdisciplinary team of technologies are also available to maximise the
specialists and therapists, specialist learning progress you can achieve.
support assistants and tutors.

Description Course dates www.college.percyhedley.org.uk Description Course dates www.henshaws.ac.uk
Offering specialist Full time courses start in Tel: 01912 812888 We empower young September, January and Tel: 01423 886451
individual study September, but can be [email protected] people living with a April. Applications also [email protected]
programmes supported by flexible, part time courses disability to learn to live accepted in-year. Short
interdisciplinary team of start throughout the year Tankerville Terrace more independently breaks service available Bogs Lane
tutors, therapists and job Maximum number of Jesmond Course length Maximum number of Harrogate
coaches students Newcastle-upon-Tyne 37 weeks per year. students HG1 4ED
Course length 130 NE2 3BB 52 week placements 47 residential plus 50 day
38 weeks per year Age range available students
Residential or day 16 - 25 years Residential or day Age range
Residential and day Other locations Residential and day 16 - 25 years
N/A Other locations
Bradford

21

Hereward College Hesley Group Independent Specialist Colleges

Hereward offers specialist facilities for day and Our independent specialist colleges (ISC) offer
residential learners with complex disabilities education and care for young adults (18-25)
and learning difficulties. We aim to prepare with complex needs, including behaviour that
our learners for the next stage of their lives, may challenge and a learning disability, often
providing outstanding employability skills and in association with autism. The ISC’s mission is
greater control over their future. Our focus is on to support transition into adult life, focusing on
developing independent individuals who can specific needs, capabilities and aspirations:
make more of their own decisions about work,
education, health and living. • promoting greater independence

• developing life skills

• personalised programmes

• preparation for community living

Description Course dates www.hereward.ac.uk Description Course dates www.hesleygroup.co.uk
A further education Courses start in Tel: 024 7646 1231 Specialism: autism, Academic year begins 1st Tel: 0800 055 6789
college based in Coventry September [email protected] complex needs, September, admissions [email protected]
for young people with Maximum number of learning disabilities and accepted all year round
disabilities and additional students Bramston Crescent challenging behaviour Maximum number of Fullerton House College/
needs 300 Tile Hill residential education students Wlisic Hall College
Course length Age range Coventry Course length 16 Hesley Hall, Tickhill
36 weeks per year 14+ years CV4 9SW 41 week academic year Age range DN11 9HH
Residential or day Other locations (52 week residential care) 18 - 25 years
Residential and day N/A Residential or day Other locations
Residential and day Doncaster

22

Homefield College Landmarks College

Homefield College is a small independent Landmarks Specialist College offers bespoke
specialist college, based in Leicestershire with programmes of education to young adults
provision for students with a range of learning from 14+, with learning difficulties and/or
difficulties. Learning is very much community- disabilities. Our curriculum is tailored to meet
based, with a range of vocational enterprises individual needs, aspirations and interests.
including our own shops and café. We offer a unique, practical curriculum, with
Facilities available: complementary speech and occupational
• residential education placements therapy support from staff experienced in
• daytime education placements working with students who have a variety of
• supported living needs.
• long-term residential care
• part-time courses

Description start in September but we www.homefieldcollege.ac.uk Description Course dates www.landmarks.ac.uk
Autistic spectrum are flexible about this Tel: 01509 815696 Specialist independent Courses start in September, Tel: 01246 433788
conditions, communication Maximum number of [email protected] college for people with but enrolment can be [email protected]
difficulties, learning students learning difficulties/ throughout the year
difficulties 25 residential and 45 day 42 St Mary’s Road disabilities. Excellent Maximum number of Littlemoor House
Course length learners Sileby learning environment with students Littlemoor, Eckington
36 weeks per year, but we Age range Leicestershire specialist therapy 80 Sheffield
can cater for 51 weeks 16 - 25 years (education LE12 7TL Course length Age range S21 4EF
Residential or day funding) 25 - 45 years 38 weeks per year 14 - 25 (full time) and
Residential and day (social service) Residential or day 16 - 60 (part time)
Course dates Other locations Day provision only Other locations
Our education courses Leicester Creswell, Mansfield,
Nottingham City, Rotherham

23

Langdon College Lifeworks College

Langdon College, the only national independent Lifeworks College is a welcoming and lively
residential and day specialist college for specialist college, open to young people aged
Jewish students aged 16 to 25 years with 16-25 with a range of learning disabilities.
learning difficulties/disabilities and associated We offer an innovative programme of personal,
behavioural problems. social and vocational education. We use
nationally accredited courses that are flexible,
Emphasis is placed on developing the young tailored to each student’s needs and are
person to become independent, gain valuable designed to support the student in gaining the
work skills and contribute to their community. skills that will enable them to progress and lead
Excellent links with Jewish organisations ensure safe, happy and independent lives.
each individual’s educational, vocational, social
and religious needs are met.

Description Course dates www.langdonuk.org/education Description Course dates www.lifeworks-uk.org
Learning difficulties and/ Enrolment September, Tel: 0161 7405900 Severe and moderate Courses run from Tel: 01803 865075
or disabilities, autistic January and April [email protected] learning disabilities September to July, [email protected]
spectrum conditions and Maximum number of including autism exceptions for admission at
communication disorders students 9 Leicester Avenue Course length other times possible Lifeworks College
Course length 30 students maximum in Salford 38 weeks per year, 3 term Maximum number of Lescaze, Shinners Bridge
38 weeks per year, 50 Manchester, 20 students M7 4HA year, 1-3 years students Dartington
weeks will be considered maximum in Edgware Residential or day Currently 16 students Devon TQ9 6JD
Residential or day Age range Day provision 5 days Age range
Residential and day 16 to 25 years a week with limited 16 - 25 years
Other locations residential places Other locations
24 Edgware N/A

Linkage College Minstead Training Trust

Linkage College is an inspiring place where Minstead Training Trust offers training for greater
young people aged 16-25, who have any form independence for 18+ year olds with learning
of learning difficulty, come to study. Rated good disabilities. Our focus is on practical learning
with outstanding outcomes for learners by through doing, in our beautiful, spacious, rural
Ofsted. setting.

Personalised programmes bring learning to 1. Life skills: in the home and the community
life in real working and living environments.
Specialist support ensures students can achieve 2. Work-based skills: a range of workshop and
their goals, to enable them to be the best they land activities
can be.
3. Health and well-being: physical and creative
activities

Description Course dates www.linkage.ac.uk Description Maximum number of www.minsteadtt.org
Specialist college post- September, however we Tel: 01472 372303 / 310 Training people with students Tel: 02380 812297
16, moderate through can accommodate new [email protected] learning disabilities in a 80 day and 14 residential [email protected]
to complex learning starters throughout the beautiful, spacious rural Age range
difficulties and disabilities year Weelsby Campus setting in the New Forest 18+ years Minstead Lodge
Course length Maximum number of Weelsby Road, Grimsby Other locations Minstead
36 weeks, 52 week students North East Lincolnshire Course length N/A Lyndhurst
placements are available 200 DN32 9RU 52/49 weeks per year Hampshire SO43 7F
Residential or day Age range
Residential and day 16 to 25 years Residential or day
Other locations Residential and day
Spilsby, Lincoln
Course dates
Course can start any time
depending on vacancies

25

Nash College National Star College

Nash College provides residential and day We are an Outstanding specialist college
provision for learners with severe and profound (CQC 2015, Ofsted 2012) providing personalised
disabilities, severe disabilities including high programmes, working in partnership with people
medical needs and/or autism and associated with disabilities and their supporters.
behaviours. Students follow individual
programmes tailored to their unique needs and We are a vibrant organisation offering life skills,
post college aspirations. Educators work with vocational and work skills programmes on a
a wide range of in-house services including full and part-time, day and residential basis. We
speech therapy, occupational therapy, nursing have outstanding facilities including; sensory,
and psychology. therapeutic, supported work environments and
excellent established community partnerships.

Description Course dates www.nashcollege.org.uk Description Maximum number of www.nationalstar.org
Severe/profound/ September - July Tel: 020 8325 4844 Providing personalised students Tel: 01242 527631
multiple learning and [email protected] learning and transition 175 full time students [email protected]
physical disabilities; Maximum number of services for people with Age range
autistic spectrum disorder students Croydon Road disabilities 16 - 25 years. However, Ullenwood
including challenging 90 students Hayes Course length people of all ages access Cheltenham
behaviour Age range Bromley 36 - 52 weeks per year our services GL53 9QU
Course length 19 - 25 years Kent BR2 7AG Residential or day Other locations
38 weeks per year, full Other locations Residential and day Various - see website
and part time courses N/A Course dates
available Mainly September to July
Residential or day but may vary
Residential and day

26

New College Worcester Oakwood Court College

NCW is a national residential school and college Our individualised learning programmes for
for young people aged 11 to 19 who are blind students with learning difficulties, autistic
or visually impaired. Every student has an spectrum condition and complex behaviour
individually tailored programme to meet their focus on achieving independence in living,
needs in 3 key areas: academic achievement, working and enjoying life. Our campuses in
independent living skills and extracurricular Dawlish, Devon and Torpoint, Cornwall, are
activities. These play a crucial role in the friendly, stimulating, learning environments.
development of confidence and self-esteem Residences include large properties with
and preparation for life. individual bedrooms and self-contained or
shared flats. Most popular event - Prom Night!

Description Maximum number of www.ncw.co.uk Description Course dates www.oakwoodcourt.ac.uk
A national residential students Tel: 01905 763933 Developing independence September, with flexible Tel: 01626 864066
school and college for 100 [email protected] for young people with entry all year [email protected]
students who are blind or Age range learning difficulties, autistic Maximum number of 7/9 Oak Park Villas
visually impaired 11 - 19 years Whittington Road spectrum condition and students Dawlish
Course length Other locations Worcester complex behaviour 55 (45 at our Dawlish Devon
38 weeks per year N/A WR5 2JX Course length Campus and 10 at our EX7 0DE
Residential or day Termly 38 weeks per year Torpoint Campus)
Residential and day (with 52 week option) Age range 27
Course dates Residential or day 16 - 25 years
September to July Residential and day Other locations
Torpoint

Orchard Hill College Pennine Camphill Community

Orchard Hill College is a non-residential Our college is a college without classrooms in
specialist college working in the London an outstanding environment where learning
region. We have five centres offering Building takes place through land-based, craft and life
Skills for Independence courses, Work Start skills programmes. Pennine offers students
courses including Traineeships and Supported hands-on learning where they gain outstanding
Internships, individualised and bespoke practical skills (Ofsted).
programmes which meet the needs of learners
within their local communities. College provision Pennine supports full termly and weekly
focuses on enabling students, whatever their boarding as well as day provision alongside
learning ability, to be as independent as respite options for current students.
possible.

Description Maximum number of www.orchardhill.ac.uk Description September but students www.pennine.ac.uk
Orchard Hill College is students Tel: 0345 402 0453 Pennine provides are enrolled throughout Tel: 01924 255281
an outstanding college 210 full time students and [email protected] engaging environments to the year [email protected]
providing individualised 120 part time students increase independence, Maximum number of
learning for students with Age range Old Town Hall communication and students Wood Lane
high needs 16 - 25+ years Woodcote Road employability 60, of which 25 are Chapelthorpe
Course length Other locations Wallington Course length residential and 35 day Wakefield
36 weeks per year Carshalton, Hackbridge, SM6 0NB 38 weeks per year Age range WF4 3JL
Residential or day New Malden, Camberwell, Residential or day 16 - 25 years
Day Wallington Residential and day Other locations
Course dates Course dates N/A
September to July Main start date is

28

Portland College Priory College Swindon

Portland College is a charitable independent We are a specialist college for students aged
specialist college offering residential and day 16+ with Asperger’s syndrome, autism, social
programmes to disabled learners aged 16+. and communication difficulties and co-morbid
We specialise in autism, physical and learning conditions. We offer 38-week residential and
disabilities, Prader-Willi and acquired brain day placements. Our support helps students
injuries. We provide person-centred education, who have previously been unable to cope with
identifying the potential of each learner to grow the demands of mainstream environments to
in confidence, using an extended curriculum develop the skills that allow them to fulfil their
focusing on employability and independent potential in education and life.
living skills.

Description January start can be www.portland.ac.uk Description Course dates www.priorygroup.com
Portland College is a accommodated Tel: 01623 499186 Autism, Asperger’s September start. Mid-term Tel: 01793 719500
vibrant national college for Maximum number of [email protected] syndrome, social and placements will always be [email protected]
people with a wide range students communication difficulties, considered
of disabilities No maximum Nottingham Road co-morbid conditions Maximum number of Fairview House
Course length Age range Mansfield Course length students 43 Bath Road
36 weeks per year 16+ years Nottinghamshire 38 weeks per year 50 Swindon
Residential or day Other locations NG18 4TJ Residential or day Age range Wiltshire SN1 4AS
Residential and day N/A Residential and day 16+ years
Course dates Other locations
New learners start N/A
in September, but a

29

Priory Colleges of North & South Wales Queen Alexandra College

Priory Colleges Wales is a partnership with Queen Alexandra College has a friendly, family
mainstream colleges Cambria and Gwent and atmosphere and is situated in a pleasant
has ‘In-House’ provision for Independence, Birmingham suburb.
Transition, Work Related Learning and Prep.
for Work & Life courses. We support young We offer a wide range of programmes and your
adults aged 16 to 25 with Asperger’s syndrome, course will be tailored to suit your individual
autistic spectrum and associated conditions. needs. Staff will help you to become more
We address the academic, social and emotional independent and confident during your time
needs of our young people in a safe and with us and will also prepare you for life after
supportive learning environment, developing college.
strategies for managing their condition as part of
their lives.

Description Course dates www.priorygroup.com Description we may be able to www.qac.ac.uk
ISC with General FE September to July Tel: 01978 340580 / 01495 762609 QAC supports people accommodate new Tel: 0121 428 5050
Access for Asperger’s Maximum number of [email protected] with a wide range of starters throughout the [email protected]
syndrome, Autistic students disabilities including visual year dependent on
Spectrum and associated 40 Coleg Gwent impairment and autism programme choice Court Oak Road
conditions Age range Blaendare Road Maximum number of Harborne
Course length 16 - 25 years Pontypool Course length students Birmingham
38 weeks per year Other locations Torfaen NP4 5YE 38 weeks per year 200 B17 9TG
Residential or day Wrexham Campus, Age range
Day only 67 Kings Street Residential or day 16+ years
Wrexham LL11 1HR Residential and day Other locations
N/A
Course dates
Courses start in
September, however

30

Regent College RNIB College Loughborough

Regent College in Stoke-on-Trent is a small, We are a friendly residential college supporting
non-residential college providing a safe and young people and adults with a wide range of
supportive environment for people who have disabilities to achieve their goals.
severe and complex learning difficulties with
associated challenging behaviour. The college Choose us for your Further Education, learning
is within easy reach of the city’s amenities and practical skills and gaining work experience
convenient for local public transport. within our college enterprise environment. You
could also choose to do a course at our partner
Learners work on their individual needs, gain mainstream college located next door.
confidence and develop vocational, social, life
and communication skills.

Description Course dates Independent Specialist College Description Course dates www.rnibcollege.ac.uk
Regent College is a September to July Supporting students with Most of our students start Tel: 01509 611077
small, non-residential although learners can join www.regentcollegestoke.co.uk a wide range of disabilities at the beginning of the [email protected]
independent specialist at any time during the Tel: 01782 263326 to achieve their goals academic year; however
college academic year [email protected] Course length applications are accepted Radmoor Road
Course length Maximum number of Standard academic throughout the year Loughborough
38 weeks per year students 77 Shelton New Road term time provision, with Maximum number of LE11 3BS
Residential or day 32 Shelton, Stoke-on-Trent summer provisions offered students
Day Age range Staffordshire on application No maximum
16 - 25 years ST4 7AA Residential or day Age range
Other locations Residential and day 16 - 25 years
N/A Other locations
N/A

31

ROC - Life Skills College Royal College Manchester

Community based non-campus college that Royal College Manchester is an outstanding
provides the same high quality bespoke independent specialist college for young
education programme and progression to people with severe to profound learning and
supported living as the residential colleges. communication disabilities. All our students
come to the college with limited functional
The college helps students develop skills communication, and with the support of our
that will increase their confidence and specialist teaching staff, on-site therapy team,
independence, leading to possible employment. trained support staff and assistive technologist,
Courses are based on person-centred we make sure they learn effective and
approaches that concentrate on discovering meaningful communication strategies.
independence through an agreed transition
pathway.

Description Course dates www.roc-uk.org Description Course dates www.seashelltrust.org.uk
Non-campus learning Academic year Tel: 07525 986 765 Outstanding independent Courses start in Tel: 0161 610 0100
focusing on independent Maximum number of [email protected] specialist FE college September [email protected]
living using PCP students for young adults with Maximum number of
progression pathways 12 students per year The Boatshed complex learning and students Seashell Trust
Course length Age range Unit C Dart Marine Park communication disabilities 80 Stanley Road
38 weeks per year 16 - 25 years Steamer Quay Road Course length Age range Cheadle Hulme
Residential or day Other locations Totnes, Devon TQ9 5AL 38 weeks per year, with 19 - 25 years Stockport SK8 6RQ
ROC provides residential N/A residential placements up Other locations
homes to 52 weeks N/A
Residential or day
Residential and day

32

Royal National College for the Blind Ruskin Mill College

The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) is Set in 140 acres in Gloucestershire, Ruskin Mill
the UK’s leading specialist residential college for College offers young people its unique Practical
people aged 16+ who are visually impaired. With Skills Educational Therapeutic Education;
over 140 years’ experience, the college stands learning through meaningful real life activities
firm in its original aim to enable each and every and accredited courses. The college provides
student to achieve their potential and engage a range of nutritional, therapeutic and medical
fully in their community. support. A rich and varied curriculum offers
opportunities to develop communication, social
and living skills. Referrals are taken throughout
the year.

Description Course dates www.rnc.ac.uk Description Course dates www.rmt.org
Specialist residential September for younger Tel: 01432 376 621 An independent specialist September to July Tel: 01453 837502
further education college students, various dates for [email protected] college educating young Maximum number of [email protected]
for people with visual adult clients people with complex students
impairments Maximum number of Venns Lane behaviour and learning 100 The Fisheries
Course length students Hereford difficulties including Age range Horsley Mill
Up to 35 weeks per year 200 HR1 1DT autism 16 - 25 years Horsley, Gloucestershire
Residential or day Age range Course length Other locations GL6 0PL
Residential 16 - 65 years 36 to 52 weeks per year N/A
Other locations Residential or day
N/A Residential and day

33

Sense College Sheiling College

Sense College is an Independent Specialist Based on a beautiful fifty-acre woodland site
College (ISC), operating in the East Midlands close to Ringwood on the Hampshire/Dorset
and the East of England. It is part of the national border near to the New Forest and South Coast,
‘Sense’ parent organisation, a registered charity Sheiling College provides high quality education
and company limited by guarantee, for deafblind and care for young adults (19-25 years old)
people. with severe learning disabilities and moderate
learning disabilities, including autistic spectrum
Sense College operates from 6 resource disorders.
centre sites located at Peterborough, Dereham,
Rothwell, Knapwell, Luton and Aldeby.

Description Maximum number of www.sense.org.uk/content/sense-college Description Course dates www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk
Sense College is an students Tel: 01733 425053 Specialist college for September and Tel: 01425 477488
Independent Specialist 300 [email protected] young adults with severe throughout the academic [email protected]
College (ISC), operating in Age range learning difficulties, year
the East of England 16 - 60 years Upper Floor, 50 Forder Way moderate learning Maximum number of The Sheiling Ringwood
Course length Other locations Cygnet Park difficulties, autistic students Horton Road, Ashley
38 weeks and 45 weeks Peterborough, Dereham, Hampton, Peterborough spectrum disorders 42 Ringwood
per year Rothwell, Knapwell, Luton PE7 8FD Course length Age range Hampshire BH24 2EB
Residential or day and Aldeby 38 weeks per year 19 - 25 years
Day provision Residential or day Other locations
Course dates Residential and day N/A
Throughout the year

34

St Elizabeth’s College St John’s School & College

St. Elizabeth’s is an independent specialist Situated in the vibrant and diverse city of
college providing further education for young Brighton, St John’s provides a varied curriculum
adults with learning difficulties and complex with a strong focus on practical work-based
needs. Residential learners have a 52 week learning, creative and performing arts and key
Housing Association tenancy agreement. life skills. This curriculum is strongly supported
by our in-house residential care and wellbeing
The curriculum enables learners to develop services, where independence is encouraged
skills for adulthood through enterprise, and promoted every step of the way.
vocational, work-related learning experiences.
Learners are supported with independence
skills through an holistic programme of health,
therapy and care.

Description Course dates www.stelizabeths.org.uk/college Description Course dates www.st-johns.co.uk
Epilepsy, Complex Needs September start Tel: 01279 844423 A specialist college Our courses are run Tel: 01273 244000
including Autism. Day Maximum number of [email protected] welcoming learners throughout the year [email protected]
college with tenancies for students with complex learning Maximum number of 17 Walpole Road
learners on Vocational 40 Perry Green disabilities and autistic students Brighton
Day Programmes Age range Much Hadham spectrum conditions 85 BN2 0AF
Course length 19 - 25 years Hertfordshire Course length Age range
38 weeks per year Other locations SG10 6EW 38 weeks per year 16 - 25 years 35
Residential or day N/A Residential or day Other locations
Residential and day Residential and day N/A

St Piers College, Young Epilepsy St Rose’s (Post 16) and St Martin’s (Post 19)

St Piers College provides residential and day St Rose’s and St Martin’s provide education for
provision for learners aged 19-25 with epilepsy young people with a wide range of needs. We
or other associated neurological conditions have a person-centred approach to ensure we
and special needs including ASD, MLD, PMLD, help young people to achieve their potential as
complex behaviours and health. Many learners they approach adulthood. We offer a wide range
have additional needs requiring physical and of accredited and non-accredited courses on
medical support. The college focuses on the and off site and work in partnership with other
development of individual learner aspirations, local providers.
independent living, vocational and employability
skills and personal skills such as assertiveness,
self-confidence and self-esteem.

Description Maximum number of www.college.youngepilepsy.org.uk Description Course dates www.stroses.org.uk
Expertise in SEND students Tel: 01342 832243 Specialist education Courses start in Tel: 01453 763793
including ASD, epilepsy 150 students made up [email protected] for those with physical, September [email protected]
and other associated of residential and day learning, sensory and Maximum number of or [email protected]
neurological conditions placements St Piers Lane communication difficulties students
Course length Age range Lingfield and complex medical 35 Stratford Lawn
38 weeks per year 19 - 25 years Surrey RH7 6PW needs Age range Stroud, Gloucestershire
Residential or day Other locations Course length 16 - 25 years GL5 4AP
Residential and day N/A 38 weeks per year Other locations
Course dates Residential or day N/A
September to July but Day provision
we do accept entries
throughout the year

36

Stratford Lodge Strathmore College

Stratford Lodge was set up to offer further Strathmore College in Stoke on Trent is an
educational opportunities beyond Key Stage independent, specialist residential and day
4 for students unable to access mainstream college providing individualised courses for
education independently after completion of young people aged 16-25 years. Learners’
their compulsory schooling. needs range from mild to severe learning
difficulties/disabilities and learners with an
Our aim is to enable students to access a autistic spectrum condition, emotional and social
local college to gain nationally recognised behaviour issues, Down’s syndrome and speech
qualifications and at the same time we and language difficulties, coupled with other
encourage them to become more independent. health related mental or physical difficulties.

Description Maximum number of www.cambiangroup.com Description Course dates www.priorygroup.com
Specialist services in students Tel: 0800 288 9779 Strathmore College is an September - July (Also Tel: 01782 647380
Asperger’s syndrome and 9 maximum students [email protected] independent, specialist admissions accepted [email protected]
associated disorders Age range college providing throughout academic Unit 7, The IMEX Technology Park,
Course length 16 - 19 years 4 Park Lane individualised courses for year) Bellringer Road, Trentham Lakes
38 weeks per year Other locations Castle Road people aged 16-25 years Maximum number of South, Stoke on Trent
Residential or day N/A Salisbury Course length students Staffordshire ST4 8LJ
Residential places Wiltshire SP1 3NP 38 weeks per year 40
Course dates Residential or day Age range 37
Admission throughout the Residential and day 16 - 25 years
year Other locations
N/A

The John Dewey Independent Specialist College The Mount Camphill Community

The John Dewey Independent Specialist The Mount Camphill Community successfully
College (part of Area 51 Education Ltd) is a supports young people with a range of learning
specialist provider that enables young people difficulties within a vibrant, yet peaceful, rural
with severe or profound learning difficulties and environment. Individualised study programmes
additional complex needs to continue learning embed crafts, practical skills, work experience,
in a structured, highly supported environment. travel training, arts, music, movement, drama,
maths and English.
With developing specialisms in the creative
arts and catering, we offer practical and The supportive community setting offers shared
individualised curricula that focus on supporting living which encourages students to work
each student to achieve their personal goals. towards their potential in all aspects of their
lives.

Description Maximum number of www.area51ed.org.uk Description Course dates www.mountcamphill.org
Severe, profound students Tel: 0208 881 7739 The Mount offers Courses start in Tel: 01892 782025
and complex learning 24 students per year (72 in [email protected] individualised study September, although [email protected]
difficulties and disabilities total) programmes embedding we do consider later
Course length Age range 1, Mallard Place crafts, practical skills, applications Faircrouch Lane
38 weeks per year 19 - 25 years Coburg Road arts, movement and work Maximum number of Wadhurst
Residential or day Other locations London experience students East Sussex
Day places available N/A N22 6TS Course length 28 residential, plus day TN5 6PT
Course dates 38 weeks per year students
Enrolment September - Residential or day Age range
July Residential and day 16 - 25 years
Other locations
38 N/A

The Orpheus Centre Thomas Doran Parkanaur Trust - Parkanaur College

Orpheus is a specialist college for young A residential college committed to promoting the
disabled adults with a passion for the arts and vocational education and personal development
a desire to live independently. We offer training of people with a range of learning difficulties
in independent living skills alongside a range and disabilities. The college facilitates transition
of art-related subjects. We have excellent between school or the sheltered home
facilities including a theatre, art studio and environment, to employment and independent
multi-media suites. We also offer supported living. A range of courses provide access to
living accommodation and a domiciliary care nationally recognized qualifications, vocational
service. training and work experience: level 1, 2 and 3 in
General Administration, Horticulture, Catering
and Hospitality, Assembled and Upholstered
Furniture Production.

Description Maximum number of www.orpheus.org.uk Description Course dates www.parkanaurcollege.org
A specialist college for students Tel: 01883 744664 Northern Ireland’s only 52 weeks per year Tel: 028 8776 1272 / 028 8776 1336
young disabled adults with 50 [email protected] specialist, residential Maximum number of [email protected]
a passion for the arts Age range college for adults with students
Course length 18 - 25 years North Park Lane learning and physical 24 57 Parkanaur Road
38 weeks per year Other locations Godstone disabilities Age range Dungannon
Residential or day Godstone, Oxted, Redhill, Surrey Course length 18+ years Co. Tyrone
Residential and day Reigate, Caterham RH9 8ND 2 years Other locations BT70 3AA
Course dates Residential or day N/A
September to July Residential

39

Thornbeck College - North East Autism Society Treloar College

The college works in partnership with a range Treloar College provides education, care,
of providers and organisations both locally therapy, medical support and independence
and nationally. These partnerships support the training to young people with complex physical
most vulnerable people in our communities to disabilities between the ages of 16 and 25.
achieve their aspirations and achieve better Our aim is to enable all learners to achieve
outcomes, providing the resources, including their long-term goals, such as living a more
specialist staff, to meet the growth in demand independent life and providing a meaningful
for education and training through collaborative contribution to society, including the prospect of
working. higher education and employment.

Description Maximum number of www.ne-as.org.uk Description Maximum number of www.treloar.org.uk
Learning for living and students Tel: 01325 328 088 A wide range of flexible students Tel: 01420 547400
work, increasing social 40 [email protected] course options for 70 [email protected]
and economic inclusion Age range students with complex Age range
Course length 16 - 25 years Cedar Drive physical disabilities 16 - 25 years Powell Drive
38 weeks per year Other locations Newton Aycliffe Course length Other locations Holybourne
Residential or day N/A County Durham 39 weeks per year N/A Alton, Hampshire
Day DL5 6UN Residential or day GU34 4GL
Course dates Residential and day
Intake throughout the year Course dates
Standard academic year
September to July

40

UET College Wargrave House LEAP College

UET College is a provision for young adults Situated in North West England, LEAP provides
aged 19-25 who have severe or profound a unique, specialist residential college for young
multiple learning difficulties and/or complex people with autistic spectrum disorder.
needs.
The bright and modern facility (residential
The college provides learning pathways accommodation built in 2010) provides up to
that extend learning beyond the compulsory six residential and six day places for young
education phase, moving progressively towards people on the autism spectrum and who have
community participation and work skills. This associated learning difficulties. LEAP benefits
enables students to learn to use local services from good local links and public transport.
and make a contribution to the local community.

Description Maximum number of www.uplandseducationaltrust.org.uk Description Maximum number of www.wargravehouse.com
UET College is an exciting students Tel: 01793 481493 Autistic spectrum disorder students Tel: 01925 224899
and unique new provision 54 [email protected] and associated learning 16 maximum [email protected]
for young adults aged Age range difficulties learners 449 Wargrave Road
16-25 16 - 25 years Uplands Educational Trust Course length Age range Newton-le-Willows
Course length Other locations Stratton Road 38 weeks – 3 years 19 - 25 Merseyside
39 weeks per year N/A Swindon preferably Other locations WA12 8RS
Residential or day Wiltshire SN1 2PN Residential or day N/A
Day Residential and day 41
Course dates Course dates
September to July Courses start September

WESC Foundation - The Specialist Centre for Visual Impairment William Morris College

Young people and adults at WESC Foundation William Morris College is a specialist college in
will experience the widest possible range of Gloucestershire. We support the development
services in education, care, therapies and of young people through a craft based
mobility, provided at this highly specialist day curriculum and the creation of enterprise and
and residential centre for visual impairment. work based learning. We promote independent
living skills for young people with learning
Our innovative, learner-centred approach difficulties. A holistic approach to care and
applies the latest techniques designed to education assists learners in their transition
transform the lives of our young people and into adulthood, developing communication and
adults. employability skills.

Description Course dates www.wescfoundation.ac.uk Description Course dates www.wmcc.ac.uk
We provide high-quality September to July or 52 Tel: 01392 454200 Residential/day provision Flexible start dates Tel: 01453 824025
education and care weeks a year [email protected] for young people with Maximum number of [email protected]
for learners with visual Maximum number of moderate to severe students
impairment. students Topsham Road learning difficulties 35 Eastington
Course length 150 Exeter including communication Age range nr Stroud
38 weeks or 52 weeks per Age range EX2 6HA difficulties 16 - 25 years GL10 3SH
year 4 - 25 years Course length Other locations
Residential or day Other locations 37 weeks per year N/A
Residential and day N/A Residential or day
Residential and day

42

Wilson Stuart UCB Partnership Trust (WSUCBPT) Natspec is the membership
LIVE @ the Hive association for organisations
which offer specialist provision
for students with learning
difficulties and disabilities

LIVE @ the Hive study programmes provide Alternative versions of this directory are
expert academic and vocational tuition available from Natspec on 0115 8541322
along with advice and guidance and the
support necessary to facilitate transition into or email [email protected]
employment and improve independent living
skills. The contents of this directory are not to be construed as terms of a
contract, and are intended for information and guidance purposes only.
STRIVE @ the Hive offers an individual
curriculum centred on students and their The descriptions of members’ provision are written by the members.
families own community giving them the Inspection reports are available on the following websites:
independence and confidence to use Ofsted – www.ofsted.gov.uk
community facilities. Care Quality Commission – www.cqc.org.uk
ISBN 978-0-9929954-1-6
Description Maximum number of www.wsucbpt.co.uk Natspec, a company limited by guarantee.
We offer programmes students Tel: 0121 373 4475 Registered in England, number 5908897.
to support students into 38 (30 on the LIVE [email protected] Registered office: Robins Wood House,
employment and / or use programme and 8 on the Robins Wood Road, Aspley, Nottingham NG8 3NH.
their community facilities STRIVE programme) Perry Common Road
Course length Erdington Copyright ©2016 Natspec. First published in the UK in 2016.
38 weeks per year Age range Birmingham
Residential or day 19 - 25 years B23 7AT 43
Day Other locations
Course dates N/A
September to July, 4 days
a week

Natspec is the membership
association for organisations
which offer specialist provision
for students with learning
difficulties and disabilities

Alternative versions of this directory are
available from Natspec on 0115 8541322
or email [email protected]

0115 8541322 @Natspec
www.natspec.org.uk /Natspeccolleges