InFocus College offers bespoke further education for young people aged 16–25 from across the UK. We provide both residential and day placements for young people with a wide range of additional and complex needs, including visual impairments and visual difficulties.
Our students may have needs including:
- Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Severe Learning disabilities (SLD)
- Moderate Learning needs (MLD)
- Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI)
- Cerebral Palsy
- Batten Disease
- Down’s Syndrome
- Deafblindness
- Physical Needs
- Social and emotional needs
- Complex communication difficulties
Our courses are designed around the unique needs of each student. All pathways ensure young people are helped to communicate better, improve advocacy, explore their potential and reach the greatest possible level of independence.
We have an expertise in the field of vision impairment, supported by a dedicated in-house team of therapists, habilitation specialists, nurses, and tutors. This multi-disciplinary team collaborates closely with our students, using their skills to unlock each individual’s full learning potential.
Staff at InFocus College
All the members of our core InFocus team are specialists in their field and employed directly by us. This means we can share all their individual knowledge and expertise in working together to directly benefit each and every student.
By establishing this in-house team we are able to create a close community where staff and students feel like family – further supporting progress and wellbeing.
Thanks to our own expert staff and selected external contractors, we can provide:
- Vision impairment practitioners with CVI specialism
- Rehabilitation and habilitation specialists (mobility and orientation)
- Physiotherapy
- Tutors in braille and other access technologies
- Specialist nurses
- Experienced support workers
- Qualified teachers
- Speech and language therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Support with daily and independent living
Within the health team at our clinic, we can also coordinate regular input from other professionals including visiting paediatricians, orthotics, audiometry, ophthalmology specialists, psychologists and many more.
Specialist resources
Alongside our expertise, we benefit from enviable onsite facilities within our peaceful, self-contained 13 acre campus.
Visit us to see our:
- 25m heated swimming pool (used for leisure as well as hydrotherapy)
- Separate hydrotherapy pool
- Well-equipped sensory room
- Mechanical therapy horse
- Trampolines for rebound therapy
- Specialist communication and mobility aids and equipment available to meet a wide range of needs
- Extensive outdoor sensory learning areas including a discovery garden
- Separate Outdoor Learning Centre in the Devon countryside for forest school, horticulture and exploration
- Onsite radio station and music room
- Indoor and outdoor gym equipment
Life at InFocus
All students can access:
- Personalised curriculum plans
- Cross-campus sessions to encourage the mixing of peer groups
- Enrichment activities like art, dance, gardening, music, VI Radio, and sensory exploration
- Activities that develop self-advocacy, independence and decision making
- Activities that develop self-care skills, and skills used in daily life
- Orientation and movement skills through swimming, Rebound therapy, walking, biking, the multi gym, and a wide range of in-class activities
- Participation and work skills through community engagement and other on or off site activities
InFocus has taught me that no matter what disability you have, you can achieve anything.
Current student at InFocus College
Student accommodation
What is the learning environment like at InFocus College?
We also provide accommodation through our students via the InFocus Student Village. This allows our students to develop their independence, whilst receiving the necessary support required. Each of our residential areas are designed to help students to function effectively in their new home, as well as learning independent living skills.
Whilst living here, students are free to personalise their space in whichever way makes them feel at home. They’ll also have access to all the necessary facilities, such as shared kitchens, dining areas, lounges. This allows them to socialise and build communication skills.
Who is eligible to attend InFocus College?
Our specialist education college is open to individuals with vision impairment and complex needs who are 16 years of age or older. We welcome students from a variety of backgrounds and abilities, and strive to create a diverse and inclusive community.
Our admissions process takes into account each student’s individual needs and goals, and we work closely with families and caregivers to ensure a smooth transition into our program.
At InFocus College, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers students to succeed, regardless of their background or abilities.
Benefits of choosing a Specialist College
Choosing an independent specialist college such as InFocus has many benefits that can help students reach their full potential and achieve their goals. This includes:
Tailored Learning
Our college offers a wide range of specialised learning resources, designed to help students with specific learning impairments. We also create tailored care plans to help students reach new heights.
Through this support we aim to break down barriers facing students, so they receive the best possible learning experience.
Smaller Class Sizes
This is particularly helpful for students who may find it challenging to engage in larger classes or who require more attention from their instructors. It allows students to receive one-to-one support that may not be available in mainstream schools/colleges.
Access to support services
Students at InFocus have access to offers a wide range of specialised support services such as:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy – also covers Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Mobility and orientation
- Braille and Access Technology
These services aim to help students develop the necessary skills to succeed in their studies and beyond.
In addition to these services, InFocus also provides support in areas such as health and care, and pastoral support. We also offer services like counselling, mentoring, and career guidance to further assist students in their academic and personal growth.
A caring and supportive learning environment
At InFocus, we prioritise creating a warm and welcoming environment for our students. We understand that choosing a college can be a challenging decision, so we strive to provide an atmosphere where students feel supported and safe.
Each of our staff is fully trained, creating an inclusive learning environment where every student is respected and valued. Through this we strive to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and welcome in the classroom.
A welcoming community
InFocus is proud to be part of a diverse and vibrant community, which includes students from all walks of life. Our college champions inclusion and strives to be a welcoming place where everyone feels welcome.
We encourage students to explore their unique interests and talents, giving them the opportunity to thrive in an environment that celebrates diversity. Students are able to visit new places taking part in social activities through trips helping them to develop their confidence and independence.
Want to know more about the power of specialist colleges? Watch our podcast episode.
Can I book a visit to InFocus College?
We welcome all prospective students and their families to take a tour of our facilities and get a better understanding of what we can offer. We believe it is essential to be able to view the college in person before making any decisions. It’s a great way to see what we have to offer and to see our staff and students in action.
During the visit, you can meet with our staff and ask any questions that you may have about the college or our admissions process.
We’re here to make your visit as seamless as possible, so please don’t hesitate to ask us for assistance in arranging accommodation or informing us about any specific requirements you may have.
Contact us today via:
Telephone: 01392 454200
We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to our College!
InFocus College Prospectus
Student Testimonials
Support services for young people
Specialist curriculum
Student Accommodation
Specialist Facilities
Work experience
