At Oakwood we provide learning programmes for learners with a wide range of abilities and that require differing levels of support according to their individual needs.

At the end of the 6 week period we hold a person centred review with the learner, their family and other people in their lives to agree their personal targets for the year. The teachers then use these targets to further personalise the learning they undertake.

The learners targets are captured and recorded on their own individual learning plan (ILP) which is reviewed with the learner every week through a tutorial. We encourage learners to contribute to this, uploading pictures and videos of their work and achievement. Teachers and support staff also provide assessment evidence and progress comments as these are achieved.

 Reports about the progress that learners make here are shared with the learner, their families and other people involved in their lives on a half termly basis. A full review is conducted usually in the spring term where the learners are able to present what they have achieved so far, and informed discussion are had about their next steps. It is really important that discussion about what the next academic year will bring are had at this stage so that we can prepare the learner for a further year of study, or start to undertake preparations for transition to another setting if this is what is agreed, in a timely way that is fully supportive of the learner and their families.

The learning that learners undertake is delivered in a fun and motivating project style – with learners getting involved in local events, enterprise activities and being part of the community. We also weave in as many opportunities as we can to actively promote the development of social skills, communication, self esteem and emotional regulation.

In addition, all learners have access to an exciting enrichment programme, with dedicated time for physical activity, craft, art and drama to name but a few. All important opportunities for them to put in to practice their social and communication skills and building confidence and a sense of enjoyment in learning.

Finally, many of learners enjoy the incredible achievement of undertaking their Duke of Edinburgh award whilst at Oakwood. We pride ourselves in providing this opportunity for our young people to undertake fun and adventure through three progressive Award levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold). We value the chance this provides for them to push their personal boundaries, gain new skills and be recognised in their development.

The College day begins at 9am, where learners arrive and are provided with structured support to transition in to the learning environment. We run activities such as mindfulness and exercise to warm them up and prepare them for the day ahead – this is called “ready to learn”.

The day then consists of 5 lessons of 50m with their group teacher, who is dedicated to working with a specific learner group to ensure they can really know and understand the learners well to maximise their learning. Learners access Maths and English throughout the week in dedicated lessons, as well as the skills being applied and developed throughout the curriculum.

Lunch is 45 minutes in duration and is held in our dining room, with hearty and healthy meals provided by our partner catering company that caters for our learners dietary needs and options.

The College learning day finishes at 3pm, however our learners have the opportunity to attend one of our after college clubs or return home. After College club attendance must be booked prior to the start of term to ensure we have adequate staffing in place for those that wish to attend. We would ask that consideration is given to each individuals energy levels, as for some a 3pm finish is more appropriate to ensure they are well rested for the following day.