About the College
Students
Pennine Camphill Community supports a specialist college of further education offering young people with moderate to severe and complex learning disabilities the opportunity to develop skills for the next stages of their lives.
Like all Camphill communities, we take a holistic approach to supporting those with special needs. We believe that all people are equally deserving of respect and should have the opportunity to develop their full potential.
The college has residential (35 places) and day students. They usually join us at Pennine immediately after leaving school, and are aged between 16 and 20 years on admission.
Learning environment
Pennine is a learning environment where all aspects of life — at home, in the classroom, in the work areas and workshops, the leisure and cultural activities — provide opportunities for learning. We create a lively, stimulating but structured environment that draws students into the learning process and allows them to thrive. We aim to develop practical skills for everyday life and to stimulate creativity, building a sense of achievement and self-confidence.
Many creative and artistic themes run through our college year, giving students a broad learning experience.
Therapeutic approaches
We follow an integrated therapeutic approach to learning so that every aspect of life at Pennine helps equip students for the future.
As well as the main activities on the timetable, specific therapies may be offered, such as speech therapy, art therapy, massage and riding.
The college year
Each of the three terms is split into two half-terms. For the college term dates, click here. Students attend for 38 weeks a year.
Learning and development at Pennine
Pennine is an NVQ registered centre. At present we offer NVQs in Horticulture and Catering & Hospitality. We are also in the process of becoming a satellite centre for ACVO (Assessment Centre for Voluntary Organisations) based in York. This already provides a route for people working in Pennine to achieve NVQs in Care, Training and Development, and Management.
Our Associates
Pennine is registered by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and by the Learning and Skills Council, and is also inspected by Ofsted. Pennine is a member of NATSPEC (National Association of Specialist Colleges), ARC (Association for Real Change), NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) and the Association of Camphill Communities.
Inspections
We are inspected by both the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and by Ofsted for the Learning and Skills Council. The latest CSCI Report (24 and 25 May 2007) has been our most positive yet. Our successful Ofsted Report is also available.