SEND provision at Arbour Academy provides learners unable to access a mainstream placement a holistic curriculum via a traditional school route and, where deemed necessary by professionals, a bespoke offer of an Outreach Programme. In an environment that allows pupils to bridge gaps in their learning from non-attendance, young people aged between 11-16 are catered for according to their SEMH, Communication and Interaction and Sensory and Physical needs, and must working within age related expectations. Neither a diagnosis of ASD, nor an EHCP are needed to attend Arbour Academy, and registration can be dual. Functional Skills and GCSE level qualifications are offered at KS4, as is a varied curriculum, allowing pupils throughout the school to access a range of experiences to enhance their learning journeys. Where integration back into a mainstream setting is not viable, learners are fully supported in identifying a qualification pathway within Arbour/ the Outreach Programme, including post 16 opportunities. Access arrangements will be put in place to ensure pupils have the support needed during examinations, as deemed necessary by professionals, including teaching staff, Medical Practitioners and Educational Psychologists.
Pastoral, academic and specialist interventions are part of the Arbour Academy offer and are based on need. Collaboration with external agencies including Speech and Language, CAMHs and the Educational Psychology Service happen to ensure that interventions are learner centred and personalised, programmes are reviewed and monitored regularly and adapted as needs change, ensuring the pupils’ needs are met appropriately. Social skills and nurture groups are a fundamental part of the offer, supporting leaners discretely in lessons, on a 1:1 basis and in small groups to develop vital independent life skills and guiding them through difficult situations; building confidence, self-esteem and security.
A bespoke holistic approach to learning at Arbour Academy provides support and a small nurturing environment to ensure learners feel safe, secure and supported and, as a result, are able to access the education they deserve, whatever that may look like. Our mission is to, support pupils to attend school, to engage with and enjoy learning, to achieve and to become confident and independent adults living fulfilled lives.
All staff have completed and continue to receive ongoing CPD in SEND and in delivering relevant interventions. Our fully qualified Special Needs Co-Ordinator provides advice and guidance to staff and pupils. To discuss your child’s needs please contact the school SENDCO, Elisabeth Cohen using the main school number 0161 464 3483 or by emailing ecohen@arbouracademy.uk, who will be happy to offer support.
Applications to Arbour Academy are through Salford SEN department/ the approved Salford referral system.
