New residential schools in Shropshire get ready to open doors to students
Two new specialist residential schools in Shropshire are preparing to open their doors and welcome students in for the first time.
The Derwen School, near Oswestry, and Overton School, near Ludlow, will specialise in tutoring and housing students who have autism and learning difficulties.
Part of Bryn Melyn Care, a child care and education agency based in Hadley, Telford, the schools have held open days to showcase the future opportunities they intend to offer when they open in January 2019.
The Derwen School has been taking shape on the site of the existing Derwen College, in Gobowen, and will provide education and residential accommodation for children with learning difficulties.
Meanwhile, Overton School, based just south of Ludlow, will be a residential provision for young people age 11 to 16-years-old with autistic spectrum conditions.
It has been converted from the former Overton Grange Hotel and will have capacity for both residential and day care students in a growing area of need.
Both schools aim to help students develop vocational, academic, social and emotional skills, while supporting them for a future independent life.
Interacting
One of the key ways Overton School intends to help students is by interacting with the local community in Ludlow to help present a positive image of autism with residents in the town.
Founding principal, David Glaves, said: "The excitement is now palpable around school as we get ready for our opening.
"We've been very busy building new classrooms and getting our residential accommodation ready.
"Our new staff have been through an extensive training programme but they are now raring to go and are excited about enrolling our first students."
Bryn Melyn Care, which will run both schools, is a Telford based employer which specialises in providing education and care for disadvantaged young people.
It employs dozens of staff experienced in helping traumatised young people to change the course of their lives through care and education.
Mark O'Donnell, director of performance and development for Bryn Melyn Care, said: "We're delighted with the progress that has been made in getting both of the schools ready.
"The school sites look fantastic and we can't wait to open. This is a fantastic opportunity to open brand new schools that will provide the very best education and care for young people who need it."
