Cloughside College is for secondary aged students from 11-19 who are admitted to Prestwich hospital or Fairfield hospital. All of our students are supported by CAMHS professionals as education is delivered in tier 4 CAMHS units. A small number of students are educated separately in a medium secure forensic unit. This is due to the fact that they are deemed to require care and treatment within a secure mental health service.
Due to the nature of our setting, our cohorts are transient in terms of numbers and make up (key stage, gender, educational needs). In summer 2024 our average length of stay for learners was 18 weeks.
We provide:
For the majority of young people, the college offers a temporary place of education until the students can return to their home school, or transfer to a new school that better suits their needs.
All students benefit from a fully personalised learning experience where their individual needs are carefully considered. Where possible the aim is to continue with their home school education.
At Cloughside College, continuity of education is our number one goal. We strive to ensure that every student remains engaged with their studies and is prepared for future academic and personal success. Our curriculum is designed to be flexible and comprehensive, tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. By working closely with home schools and colleges, we ensure that students receive consistent, high-quality education whether they are in Key Stage 3, 4, or 5.
Where specialist knowledge is required that our team does not possess, we are open to commissioning external tutors and subject specialists to ensure that our students receive the best possible education. We support students even after discharge by providing out-of-hours tutors and facilitating their return to sit exams. Our teachers are capable of teaching from pre-entry level up to A-level, ensuring continuity and quality in education
Underpinning our curriculum offer are our curriculum pathways. These apply across all key stages and are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students, ensuring they receive the appropriate support and education: These pathways are:
Most of our students are fluent readers. They have numerous opportunities to engage in reading activities during lessons and collaborative sessions with health staff, primarily the Bedrock programme of study. For those who need additional support, we provide targeted interventions to improve decoding and comprehension skills. In order to support this, we have invested in professional development of identified members of our teaching team and are trained in the delivery of an approved phonics course. We also have a member of staff completing the NPQLL (National Professional Qualification for Leading Literacy).
At Cloughside College, we believe that education is crucial for mental health and personal development. A structured educational environment provides stability and routine, which are essential for emotional well-being. Engaging in learning helps students build confidence, broaden their horizons, and develop positive social interactions. These experiences are vital for preventing social isolation and promoting positive childhood experiences, which in turn improve life chances and prevent relapse in vulnerable students.
By offering a comprehensive curriculum and diverse pathways, Cloughside College ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed academically and personally, fostering a brighter future for all.