Education
"The curriculum prepares students very well for the next steps in their lives and for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life. Outstanding consideration is given to each student's individual needs and well-being." Ofsted December 2010 (http://www.ofsted.gov.uk)
Ofsted Reports
Acorn School
Smallbrook School
Bryn Melyn Care has two independent schools: Acorn and Smallbrook. They’re approved and registered with the Department for Education (DfE). The holistic aim and ethos of each school is to encourage and promote effective, individualised learning, where pupil dialogue is encouraged and appropriate learning pathways are ascertained.
Read more about the schools in our newsletter, News Update , including a feature about our new Vocational Training & Education Centre, Gateway VTEC.
The Curriculum
Through an extensive curriculum that is broad, balanced, and flexible and varied, we provide a range of nationally recognised and approved programmes of learning that offer a range of both academic and vocational qualifications at varying levels (from unit awards to Higher level GCSE’s or equivalent)...
These programmes are carefully selected to promote higher levels of pupil motivation and establish clear and concise learning targets with qualifications that are widely recognised by colleges of further education and prospective employers.
Both Acorn and Smallbrook School welcome and value pupils in an environment where individual achievement and success matter, and where there is a commitment to continuous improvement. We provide highly effective, individualised learning programmes, with specialised teaching and learning strategies, which are adapted to meet pupil learning styles and preferences.
Pupil involvement in lesson planning is strongly encouraged to establish higher levels of intrinsic motivation and jointly agreed targets for achievement. Lessons are conducted on an individual basis, in pairs, or in small groups. For pupils with a ‘Statement of Special Educational Needs’ their targets will reflect the specified objectives within the statement and statements will be regularly monitored by the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator/Headteacher.
As integrated and established schools, we pride ourselves on our ability to encourage pupils to expand their knowledge, experience and skills, whilst providing a purposeful and stimulating school environment that recognises the need to provide a range of positive, interesting and engaging learning experiences.
The parallel use of praise, positive role modeling, TCI (Therapeutic Crisis Intervention), behaviour management techniques and intervention strategies, provides and promotes consistency in staff approaches and expectations, whilst enabling pupils to work towards specific educational targets and objectives to gain a sense of integrated achievement.
The Broader Curriculum
The broader curriculum includes opportunities for pupils to learn, participate in, and enjoy sports and outdoor adventurous activities. (e.g. Rock climbing, mountain biking, canoeing, gorge walking and much more.)...
We offer a comprehensive physical education programme that includes practical lessons covering tennis, badminton, squash, football, hockey, swimming and trampolining, as well as a variety of team games. Sessions are also available to improve pupils’ knowledge and understanding of first aid and healthy lifestyles. Outdoor and physical education courses provide extensive opportunities for pupils to overcome their fears, face challenges, and develop their skills and confidence.
Adventure training programmes can also be arranged. These include overnight trips, which aim to actively promote socialisation, co-operation and positive interaction with both peers and adults.
Further and more comprehensive information on specific programmes of learning and school policies and procedures can be obtained by requesting a school prospectus.
Each of our schools promotes a safe and supportive learning environment in which everyone is valued and high expectations are clearly communicated.
