• Specialism:
  Independent special needs college for students with moderate learning difficulties
• Residential/Day:
  Residential and day places 
• Course Start Dates:
  Courses start in September 
• Course Length per Year in weeks:
  38 weeks per year 
• Maximum Student Numbers:
  Maximum 39 residential students plus additional day students
• Age Range:
  16 - 19 on admission 

General Description of College:
Home life in ‘family’ groups offers opportunities to contribute to running a household while receiving necessary support in personal care. Increasing maturity in organisational, emotional, behavioural and communication skills is nurtured. Community living provides a secure basis for developing social relationships and enjoying social activities. While the spiritual life of the community is based around the Christian festivals, members of all cultural, religious and ethnic groups are welcomed at The Mount.

The Curriculum:
Our crafts curriculum is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner. Students complete a three year College course in a chosen craft, bakery or horticulture. Crafts are pursued not only as an end in themselves but as a vehicle for developing each individual’s growth in all areas, including qualities necessary for possible future supported employment or independent living. We currently also offer Foundation Learning - awarded by Crossfields Institute and accredited by Edexcel - and Functional Skills sessions in English, Maths and ICT. Other activities include music, art, independence skills, drama, movement, outings and outward-bound activities.

Statements:

1. expertise in meeting the needs of students with moderate learning difficulties
2. an extensive programme of performing arts
3. residential provision linked to the academic year
4. day provision
5. registered with the Care Quality Commission
6. a range of therapeutic services
7. in-house speech and language therapy
8. opportunities to work towards qualifications within Foundation Learning
9. a social skills programme
10. opportunities to improve literacy, numeracy and/or communication skills
11. opportunities to improve Information and learning technology skills
12. a transition programme into independent living
13. a transition programme into supported or open employment
14. a programme to help learners to look after themselves more independently
15. a work placement scheme with local employers
16. opportunities to take part in a wide range of social, leisure and sporting activities
17. a personal development programme
18. help with negotiating suitable long term provision
19. sessions to improve posture and mobility
20. expertise in working with students who have specific learning difficulties
21. opportunities to prepare for work after college