College can be a challenging time for students with special educational needs (SEN). Many colleges offer support services to help these students succeed.
Our specialist education college is a great example of how universities and colleges can provide SEN support. This provides SEN students with access to specialist learning support. Our 14 acre campus in Exeter, Devon, has everything your child needs to take the next step in their education.
What we mean by SEN
SEN (special educational needs) refers to children with learning difficulties or disabilities making learning harder than for other children their age. This can include physical, sensory, communication, behavioural and emotional needs.
For example, some children can have difficulties with:
- Understanding reading, writing & numbers
- Communication & physical skills
- Concentrating & paying attention
- Making friends & socialising
- Managing their emotions and behaviour
Students with SEN may need extra support to succeed. This could include resources, such as tutoring or mentoring, or accommodations in the classroom.
What is a SEN College?
A SEN college is an independent specialist college that provides tailored support for young people with SEN. Such colleges are designed to meet the needs of students, providing them with a safe and supportive environment to learn.
Our college offers a range of services, including:
- Specialist learning support
- Access to specialist equipment and resources
- One-to-one tuition
- Access to therapies, such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and mobility training
Unlike mainstream colleges or sixth forms, SEN colleges are specifically dedicated to supporting students with SEN. This means the college is equipped with the resources and expertise to help your child develop key life skills.
Why is SEN support necessary in education?
SEN support is essential for helping college students reach their full potential. It can provide them with the necessary tools and resources to help them succeed in their studies. This includes specialist learning support, such as one-to-one teaching, mentoring, and access to specialist equipment/resources.
How we support college students with SEN
As a SEN College, the InFocus College provides a range of dedicated support services for young people aged 16-25 with SEN. These vision impairments and complex needs include:
- Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Severe Learning disabilities (SLD)
- Moderate Learning needs (MLD)
- Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI)
- Cerebral Palsy
- Physical Needs
- Social and emotional needs
The college has a dedicated SEN team, which includes specialist teachers and support staff. They support students, ensuring they have the right level of help to achieve their academic goals.
We also provide a range of activities and experiences to help students develop their independence, social skills and confidence. These include work experience placements, leisure activities and trips out into the community.
Furthermore, we provide other support services, such as pastoral health and care guidance. This ensures that our students are supported in all aspects of their college life. Adjusting to College can be hard, so we strive to make sure our students feel supported when joining us.
Personalised learning plans
Specialist colleges like InFocus create individual learning plans for students. These plans cover education and personal development, including ways to improve communication, self-advocacy, and life skills.
Colleges also provide extracurricular activities to support social, physical, and emotional well-being. Examples of these activities include art, music, and sports, which can help boost confidence and self-esteem while making learning fun.
Specialist curriculum
We understand that students with SEN may require a different approach to learning. That’s why we provide a specialist curriculum tailored to the individual needs of our students.
Our curriculum is designed to help students develop their skills and knowledge in an environment that is supportive and stimulating. It emphasises five key areas of learning:
Core life skills
- enhancing communication skills, literacy, numeracy and ICT
- using technology to enhance daily life
- maximising functional vision
Social and Community
- following passions and doing things they enjoy
- enjoying relationships with family and friends and meeting new people
- breaking down barriers associated with disability
Voice and Choice
- using their voice about things that matter to them
- making choices about all aspects of life to the fullest possible extent
- to use money, live healthy and manage relationships
Independence
- living independently, with the right level of support
- developing resilience and self-care routines
- travelling within their community
Work
- learning the skills to thrive in a workplace
- work and volunteering placements
- being valued and active citizens in the community
Our curriculum includes a range of activities, such as sensory exploration, communication development, numeracy and literacy, as well as life skills. We also provide vocational courses to help students develop employment skills.
In addition, we offer specialist therapies, such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy. These are designed to help our students develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Specialist Facilities
At InFocus, we’re committed to providing a comprehensive education and the best possible learning environment for all our young people. We offer a wide range of specialist facilities that cater to the needs of students with complex needs.
Our facilities are designed to be both fun and educational, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for our students.
Our specialist facilities include:
- Sensory rooms – designed to provide a calming environment for students with sensory needs. The rooms are equipped with sensory equipment and resources.
- Accessible classrooms – designed to provide a comfortable and accessible learning environment for students with physical needs.
- Specialist equipment – such as Braille, Moon and tactile communication aids, adapted computers and assistive technology.
- Bradbury Water Therapy Centre Swimming Pool – designed to provide a safe and accessible environment for students with physical needs.
- Hydrotherapy Pool – provides a safe and supportive environment for students to develop their physical skills, such as balance and coordination.
- Trampolines – designed to help students develop their physical skills and confidence.
- Outdoor equipment – such as adapted bikes and trikes, to help students explore their environment.
We understand that SEN support in college can be challenging, but we are committed to providing our students with the best possible learning experience. We ensure all of our young people have access to the resources they need to reach their full potential.
Post-college support
Transitioning into adulthood can be challenging for students with complex needs. That’s why at InFocus, we offer four different pathways for students aged 16-25 to help them prepare for their next steps:
Pioneer
Helps students become more independent and learn important skills. They follow a structured education plan and participate in activities like community groups, music, sports, student radio, and art classes.
Students also have the opportunity to gain real-life experience outside college by working or going shopping. The goal is to increase their social confidence and awareness, so they can become more independent.
Endeavour
Encourages students to develop independence, self-determination and daily living skills. They have the freedom to choose their own learning path and create an individual learning programme.
With this, students learn how to navigate different environments and often feel comfortable in supportive living situations. They lead purposeful lives by participating in social activities and volunteering.
Discovery
Focuses on self-determination, participation, communication and choice. It is specifically designed for students with multiple learning disabilities. Innovative tools are used here to help these students communicate meaningfully.
Students also receive enhanced support from our therapy team. This includes access to visual impairment services, professional therapists and health centre.
Transition
Prepares students for adult life. It helps them learn skills for independent living and working. They can complete it full-time or part-time, or do a supported work placement.
Some students may need extra education for one or two years. This will help them develop the skills they need for independent or supported living. They can also gain further qualifications and build work skills and confidence.
Unlocking the potential of every student
At InFocus College, we want every student to reach their full potential. We have many special facilities such as a swimming pool, sensory learning areas, a radio station and a music room.
Students can also gain work experience by volunteering with local employers. This helps them develop skills and prepare for independent or supported living. It also boosts their confidence and makes them feel valued in the community.
Advice for parents
We understand that supporting your child’s transition into college life can be challenging.
If your child requires SEN support in college, we are here to help. Our experienced staff are on hand to provide advice and guidance on the best approach for your child. If you would like further information or advice, please do not hesitate to contact us at enquiries@infocus-charity.org.uk.
Our team is available to guide you through every step of the process. We provide updates on their progress, assistance with any concerns and advice on important decisions.
For more information, see our College prospectus. You can also visit our Exeter campus for a tour of our grounds and facilities. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Helpful sites with advice for SEN Education: