Life beyond the classroom
At Cambian Whinfell School, preparing students for life beyond the classroom is at the heart of our approach. In the video below Michelle Turner, Head of Education at Whinfell School, explains how the school supports students who have experienced disrupted education by focusing on confidence, independence and meaningful progress both in and beyond the classroom.
Our curriculum
A personalised approach to learning
Cambian Whinfell School's curriculum is designed to enable our young people to build self-esteem and achieve their full potential. Our approach ensures that teaching and learning methods are thoughtfully adapted to match each young person’s individual diagnosis, needs and strengths.
The school day is structured and active, including many opportunities for physical activity and therapeutic input. All of our classes are small; no more than three students and a one to one staff ratio where appropriate.
Our curriculum
Individual learning plans and progression pathways
Students have individualised timetables which are informed by their education, health and care plan (EHCP) and by an understanding of their own individual learning style. Where necessary staff are skilled in using a wide range of visual supports and prompts. Autism specific awareness is central to the delivery of teaching and learning and all students have Individual Development Plans (IDPs) which are regularly reviewed.
Our students all access the national curriculum and follow the most suitable learning journey for them from Unit Awards and Entry Level Certificates to GCSE's. Post-16 students may remain at Whinfell School to continue their studies and journey to adulthood, through a bespoke curriculum offer working closely with local colleges and accredited courses in Independent Living and Preparing for Working Life.
Student Profile
- Males, aged 7-19 - Who May present with one or more of the following:
- Diagnosis or traits of Autism and associated conditions including ADHD and PDA
- Mild to moderate learning difficulties
- Complex needs and associated challenging behaviours
- Often multiple exclusions and placement breakdowns
- A history of school refusal, periods of time out of school and may have experienced previous admission to a CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) inpatient unit
- Difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia
- Has an Education, Health and Care Plan
Bespoke Pathway
At Whinfell, every young person begins their journey with a personalised plan, created in partnership with our clinical, education and care teams. From day one, we make sure each child feels understood, supported and confident as they settle in.
This flexible and child-centred approach means every journey is respected and nurtured. Children can grow and thrive at their own pace, while parents and carers gain reassurance that their child is in safe, supportive hands. Our plans focus on:
Building trusting, positive relationships.
Recognising each child’s unique needs and strengths.
Designing a curriculum tailored to their EHCP.
Adjusting support as progress evolves.
This flexible and child-centred approach means every journey is respected and nurtured. Children can grow and thrive at their own pace, while parents and carers gain reassurance that their child is in safe, supportive hands.
A Story of Transformation
In this video, Michelle Turner, Head of Education, shares the powerful story of a student who arrived disengaged and anxious, uncertain about his future. With consistent encouragement, tailored careers guidance, and staff who understood the importance of taking small, manageable steps, he began to re-engage with education and build confidence. This transformation reflects our wider commitment to helping each student discover purpose, develop aspirations, and realise their potential, academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our young people have access to:
- English Language
- English Literature
- Maths
- Science
- Music
- Hospitality and Catering
- Geography
- Humanities
- International Certification of Digital Literacy
- Art
- PE
- Social Skills
- Drame
- Citizenship
- Relationship & Sex Education
- Therapeutic Outdoor Learning
- Personal Social and Health Education
- SMSC
- Independence Programme
- Work Experience and Enterprise
- Therapeutic and Clinical Interventions
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