Lancaster is a co-educational school for pupils who have a range of complex needs including severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties, communication difficulties and autism.

Lancaster offers provision for pupils of both primary and secondary ages.  In addition the school provides early years education for children from the age of 3 and Further Education is offered for students from 16 to 19 years.  The designated capacity of the school is 90.

·        Every pupil is entitled to be treated with respect and dignity.

·        Learning is an active and enjoyable experience.

·        We value the learning experiences of every pupil and celebrate their achievements.

·        The needs of each pupil provide the basis for collaborative work.

·        The curriculum for each pupil is broad, balanced and relevant to their individual needs.

·        Partnership with parents and carers, sharing priorities, intentions and achievements is paramount.

·        Our pupils have an entitlement to be members of the wider community.

·        There is equality of opportunity for all.

·        Staff work as a professional team, supported and empowered in their work by effective management and quality resources.

At Lancaster School we strive to meet the learning needs of each pupil on an individual basis, identifying and developing strengths, priorities and specific skills related to the priorities.  Aims and objectives are identified in consultation with parents.

Individual teaching aims are addressed within the context of a curriculum that is broad, challenging and relevant to the needs of every pupil.  Teachers seek to provide pupils with coherent learning experiences through the development of clear and concise policies for each curriculum area.

Communication and Personal, Health and Social Education (PHSE) are regarded as key elements for all pupils at the school.

The core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Information Technology, together with Religious Education (RE) and the foundation subjects of Design and Technology, Music, History, Geography, Art and Physical Education (PE) are taught throughout the school in a manner which is accessible to each pupil.  Modern Foreign Languages are introduced, where appropriate, as part of a cross-cultural experience for students in the Upper School. Each subject is taught as a discrete subject area.  Teaching is supported through the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) hardware, software and peripherals.

A brief outline explaining our approach is provided in this prospectus.  If you would like copies of the full curriculum policies or Schemes of Work, please contact the school.

The quality of education is enhanced through the provision of a wide range of facilities and resources including:

·        Warm water swimming pool

·        A sensory garden

·        An interactive activity room

·        A multi-sensory room

·        A dark room

·        A food technology area

·        A library

·        Resource for music, design and technology

·        2 minibuses with tail lifts and seat belts

·        large play areas featuring a range of outdoor equipment with safety surfacing

·        wide range of computer hardware and software featuring CD ROM’s, specialist switches and concept keyboards

·        audio-visual equipment, resources for media studies

·        extensive range of specialist sensory and language equipment

·        special equipment to assist posture and mobility