Nash College Prospectus

Nash College prospectus

Learning through living

‘Learning is our passion. We want every student to learn skills which will improve the quality of their life and build on their strengths. Come and join us’ Claire Howley-Mummery, principal

learning through living

Welcome to Nash Nash College is an independent specialist college for learners with moderate to profound learning disabilities.

In addition, students may have physical disabilities or complex medical needs, and some have autism. We provide residential and day further education for 65 students, aged from 18 to 25. The college is registered as a care home with nursing provision, and is situated in Hayes near Bromley.

One of our strengths is the broad learning experience we offer - on site, out in the community and in partnership with other organisations. Students benefit from a wide range of local amenities and excellent links with the local community. All our students receive a tailor-made, individual education from our well-qualified and committed staff team.

Nash’s transitions service is outstanding, helping students plan for adult life from day one at college. And a marked feature of our life together is diversity, something we celebrate and which enriches college life.

Our vision ‘To be a college where excellence ensures learning that is relevant and purposeful, to enable an individual to live a fulfilled life’

Our philosophy Our founding philosophy is a Christian one.

Livability traces its history back 160 years, when it was established by Christian reformers. This heritage lives on today, inspiring our work and informing our values of quality, inclusion and justice. We are enriched by the diversity of our staff and students, and warmly welcome those of all faiths and none. We believe in the unique value of the individual and their right to be in charge of as many aspects of their life as they are able.

learning through living

At Nash, we want to: • teach students skills for adult life • support students to reach their goals • raise students’ expectations so each can achieve their maximum level of independence in housing, employment and leisure • strive to provide students with the broadest opportunities possible • underpin all we do with excellent teaching and support • build self-esteem and confidence • provide a springboard to enable individuals, with their families, to meet the challenges of adult life • work with other agencies to support students’ transition out of college

vision and values

Living at Nash

learning through living

Test text

‘Learners feel safe and well cared for’ Ofsted report 2009

living at nash

learning through living

Life on campus Accommodation Nash has three “living and learning” buildings close together on one campus.

All rooms are equipped and furnished to a high standard, and there is a comprehensive maintenance and improvement programme.

Regular refurbishment takes place during the college holidays. Security is always a high priority on campus.

Nash House • accommodates 20 students in total • two residential units, sleeping nine and seven students • four-bedroom flat for independent living • spacious dining room, student leisure area in conservatory, gymnasium and ICT suite • staffed medical suite • multi-sensory room • counselling room

All residential units have their own lounges, used for learning and relaxation, and the independent living units have their own kitchens, dining and bathroom facilities.

All bathroom and toilet facilities have appropriate specialist equipment.

Catering Our catering team provides quality food with plenty of choice. Students enjoy three healthy meals a day, and we work closely with the local dietetic service to cater for all dietary requirements. Students can choose to eat in the college dining room or in their own accommodation. Students are encouraged to cook their own food in the independent living units. Work experience for students is provided in the main kitchens and at “Gnashers”, our student-run café.

Getting outdoors Coney House • • • • • • •

accommodates 13 students in total residential unit for nine students four-bedroom flat for independent living learning accommodation dining areas on two floors staffed medical suite multi-sensory room

Nash Hangout Nash Hangout is a five-bedroom independent living unit.

Outdoor sport and recreation is a popular feature of college life. The Nash sports day draws a big crowd every year. Students can use accessible pathways to enjoy our beautiful woodlands and carp pond, with space nearby for summer barbeques and relaxation.

Many students will use horticulture to support their learning, both on site and at a nearby allotment. Students take part in the Bromley farmers’ market, as part of this learning experience.

living at nash

learning through living

Student life

those of, other faiths. Sharing with and understanding each other is prized at Nash.

Going out

Getting involved

Nash students enjoy a rich social life.

Experiencing life through trips, visits and just having fun is part of both the day and “after hours” residential curriculum. We support students to make their own decisions about when and what they would like to do, individually and in groups. Swimming, horse riding, football, bowling and cycling are just some of the off-site sports on offer. There are regular trips to London and further afield.

Local pubs, clubs, restaurants and discos are always popular too.

All students are members of the National Union of Students (NUS) which offers concessions for shopping, holidays, cinema and other leisure activities.

Life together

A student charter, in symbol form, sets out a contract between college and students. It outlines what students can expect from their courses and what they will achieve.

Students in our shared flats live as any other group of young adults. After helping to cook a meal together, they may go out for the evening, get a DVD or have friends round.

Organising the shopping, housework and laundry takes some time, but it’s important and hopefully enjoyable.

After a demanding day, many students like to relax by reading, watching television or listening to music. Students can borrow books and audio-visual materials from the college.

Students organise parties, celebrations and events with the support from staff. Residential students may choose to go home for term-time weekends, but we encourage students to stay as this is an important part of learning. We offer supervised banking facilities for every student.

Celebrating diversity We’re proud of the cultural diversity our students represent, and we are working towards the Investors in Diversity quality mark, for award in 2010. Staff and students are encouraged to learn from each other and we celebrate diversity in many ways throughout the year. We focus on individual cultures and nations, with special activities, meals and times of reflection.

As a Christian college, we have a vibrant Christian Union which is open to all and can be accessed at whatever level the individual wants. We actively celebrate with, and support

The college’s student union meets regularly and is just one way by which we make sure student opinion gets heard. We put a high priority on finding appropriate communication methods for each student, so they can express what they feel about their education and college life. What our students tell us, however they are able to express this, is directly fed into how college is run.

Links with home Good communication between students, their families and carers, and college is important.

We respect the right of the student to control what is said about them and we try to make all this possible with our: • computer access for all students, for email and the internet • student home/college contact book • open door policy, whereby parents can talk to staff about any concerns • drop-in sessions and open evenings, when parents and carers are invited to discuss students’ achievements • college newsletter, sent home at the end of each term • parents’ forum online Nash also offers parents training in voice output communication aids and alternative, augmentative communication.

Smooth running Our dedicated staff in administration, catering, housekeeping, human resources, IT, maintenance and transport support the day-to-day running of the college. Our fleet of accessible vehicles, manned by experienced drivers, means transport is on hand for trips out.

living at nash

Education

learning through living

‘Learners enjoy their time at college and make good progess in developing their communications skills’ Ofsted report 2009

education

learning through living

Our curriculum Our three-year curriculum provides: • greater level of community engagement • increased employability skills • improvement or maintenance of fitness, health, safety and well-being • increased communication and social interaction • greater control of decision-making for self • increased skills for daily living and personal care • increased self-management of emotions and relationships

The core principle of our curriculum is to improve the individual’s quality of life and build on their strengths. The wide-ranging curriculum offers choice and scope for students across a broad range of individual needs and preferences. Based on principles of inclusive and learner-centred best practice, it allows clear routes of progression for learners in the Skills for Life programme.

Each student’s progress is assessed and reviewed to ensure they continue to achieve and learn.

Please find our full curriculum at the back of this prospectus.

education

Making progress

Joined-up thinking

Courses are available to all students at entry level. All students have an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to meet their specific needs. This is formally reviewed three times a year, and informally more often, so it truly reflects the learner’s needs and aspirations.

A student’s learning is accredited, where appropriate, by the Foundation Learning programme. Student success is proudly celebrated at Nash.

Our education, care support and therapy teams work closely together so students can make the most of all the learning opportunities Nash can provide. This is particularly true for our residential students, whose learning targets extend into all aspects of their day. Our team runs a rich timetable of activities and learning opportunities, both on and off campus.

Every student’s progress is monitored in several ways: • learning targets are regularly set for all areas, and achievements logged • students help to set and review their own targets and to plan their transition from full-time education • progress reports are sent to parents/ carers and funding agencies three times a year • annual reviews bring together the student and staff, with family and professionals the student wishes to invite. Student participation is encouraged Guidance and support is provided through: • individual and group tutorials • counselling • range of therapies • psychology team • student meetings

learning through living

Because we are a large college, students benefit from meeting a wide variety of people, both staff and students. We believe that, while consistency is important, learning to cope with change and variety is a valuable skill for life.

education

Specialist care & support

learning through living

‘My son Patrick was able to take advantage of all that Nash College has to offer, educationally and socially' Student's parent

specialist care & support

‘We want every student to enjoy their time at Nash, have new experiences and be prepared for life after college’ Angela Crooks, registered manager and head of student support and care

learning through living

Specialists working together

Therapy support

We take pride in our multi-disciplinary approach to meeting students’ needs. Staff specialisms are carefully integrated across the college, drawing together the therapy, education and care teams. Our aim is to integrate the clinical recommendations made by our specialist teams into each student’s everyday life.

Speech and language therapy : This department is the driving force behind our vision to create a total communication environment that extends throughout the student’s day. Following assessment, we plan a communication strategy for the student. This includes aims and objectives, progress records, vocabulary selection and programmes. The student’s communication skills are regularly reviewed. The key aim is to support the student to communicate in as many settings and with as many people as possible.

Every therapy team provides a specialist assessment of need, with guidance and recommendations. These teams contribute to annual reporting and record-keeping, to ensure that all students have a well-informed risk assessment and appropriate learning targets. The teams actively support transition in and out of college, liaising with community services wherever possible.

Care support Each student has a “living and learning champion” to support their individual care plan, which is reviewed regularly. Over 120 student support assistants, in dedicated professional teams, meet the individual needs of our students. Support assistants will also support students during their teaching sessions. This is of real benefit to staff and students alike and promotes the learning ethos of the college.

Working to strict health and safety guidelines, our multi-disciplinary teams provide personal care, including moving and handling, and ensure safety for all. All activities and outings are risk-assessed with a view to enable, and student progress is closely monitored.

Physical therapies

Physiotherapy : This team promotes physical health, wellbeing and mobility.

Each student’s timetable will include movement or fitness activities. We offer in-house and community-based activities, such as rebound therapy, cycling, horse riding and sports hall activities. We also provide students with individual assessments for mobility aids, functional positioning and therapeutic equipment, and critical therapy support to manage physical conditions.

Occupational therapy (OT) : Our OT team develops students’ practical functional skills to promote independence. The OT works in an integrated way in order to develop key skills relating to daily living; for example, care of self, cooking, travel, work-related skills. They also contribute to ensuring that the college environment is appropriately equipped to maximise the skills of the individual. Our specialist team offers direct therapy treatments and adaptations.

specialist care & support

Psychology and wellbeing therapies The psychological and emotional wellbeing of our students is important to us. The transition to adult life is not always an easy one. For this reason, the college offers: Psychology : This team, led by a consultant clinical psychologist, encourages students to gain a better understanding of themselves and their environment. The team is key in driving and informing our support strategies to enable students to manage their emotions and behaviours, and to develop their understanding of sexuality, social awareness and personal identity.

Counselling Students have access to a confidential counselling service. A qualified counsellor offers bookable appointments where students can explore thoughts, feelings and ideas in a safe and confidential environment. The counsellor is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and adheres to BACP’s best practice code.

Medical support

Music therapy : We use music therapy to develop intentional communication and pre-verbal communication skills. Students learn to channel emotional energy through the supportive and creative relationship with the therapist, and thereby develop greater self-awareness.

Our qualified nursing team, with the care staff, provides 24-hour medical support.

Two nurses are on duty at all times, and our local GP service is always available.

We have links with Greenwich University’s medical and nursing schools, and work closely with Bromley Primary Care Trust’s services including:

Art therapy : This offers students the opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings through art. This therapy, in a safe and supportive environment, can encourage personal growth and change.

• dietetics service • gastro specialist nurse • epilepsy specialist nurse, with pathway to a named neurology consultant • specialist training for our nurse team

Relaxation therapy : This provides a creative, safe place for students to express their feelings through relaxation. Our therapists use visualisation, touch, gentle exercise, movement and massage. Many students learn how to use these techniques to manage emotions and behaviour.

Music, art and relaxation therapies are offered on an individual or group basis, depending on the student’s referral.

Aromatherapy : Aromatherapy uses massage with essential oils to treat the mind and body. Benefits include physical and mental awareness, a “clear head”, and improved blood and lymph circulation.

Students are treated individually, with support to make choices.

learning through living

specialist care & support

Joining us

At a glance • visit us • complete an application • attend a multi-disciplinary assessment (includes an overnight stay for residential students) • pre-admission reports completed by college • provisional offer made by college • application to funding agencies • student informed of application result and funding by local authority

learning through living

Entry requirements Nash has no formal entry requirements, other than evidence that the applicant requires the type of provision we offer.

Students attending the college would not normally be able to access mainstream college provision. Admission is dependent on: • clear identification of needs and predicted progress • clear identification that the college can meet these needs and the curriculum will support the desired progress • successful application for funding via the student’s home local authority

Referral Any person or agency may make a referral on behalf of the potential student, with the agreement of that individual and/or their primary carer.

Assessment Every potential student is carefully assessed to see if Nash is going to be the best place for them to learn. Additional reports from a previous school, social worker and health professionals are an essential part of an application, to give the fullest picture possible of the applicant’s needs.

Applicants attend a formal assessment day, which includes an overnight stay for residential students. Students will meet therapy, educational and residential staff according to an agreed timetable. We make this experience as relaxed and enjoyable as we can for our applicants.

Following the assessment, a report is sent to the applicant. Formal application is then made, usually through a Connexions personal advisor or other nominated agency.

Application for funding is supported by the college but managed via the local authority.

If you have any questions about how to apply, please contact our transition coordinator; see next page for details.

Moving on Education at Nash is a springboard to launch our students into adult life. From the first term, we start looking ahead to life after college. The Individual Learning Plan helps students develop their long-term aims.

Some students move into residential living or independent living with support, whilst others return to the family home.

We know that making the transition from college is a crucial time in a student’s life, and we work closely with other agencies to make that process as smooth as possible.

We support the student and their family to plan early and well for the future, with a comprehensive transition plan.

When a new placement is found or life plan confirmed, we work proactively with the new providers and agencies. Visits by students to new placements and services, and visits from their staff, are actively encouraged.

Detailed information is shared openly. All of this helps the student to build upon the skills they have acquired at college.

joining us

Nash facts Governance and management

Terms

Our senior management team, led by the principal, is responsible for day-to-day running and strategic development of the college. Our local governing body draws together local people whose range of expertise provides us with advice, guidance and support. This group includes a parent member and students.

The academic year is 38 weeks, divided into six terms. Calendars are sent out annually.

Our governors report to Livability’s trustees, the charity that runs Nash. For more information on Livability, please visit www.livability.org.uk

Fees Funding may be available through government agencies, social services or local authorities, or a combination of these.

How to apply Please request further information from: Libby Eldridge Transition coordinator Nash College Croydon Road Hayes Bromley Kent BR2 7AG Tel: Fax: Email: Web:

learning through living

020 8315 4800 020 8462 0347 admin@nash.livability.org.uk www.livability.org.uk/nash

Nash College Croydon Road Hayes Bromley Kent BR2 7AG Tel: Fax: Email: Web:

020 8315 4800 020 8462 0347 admin@nash.livability.org.uk www.livability.org.uk/nash

Registered charity no:1116530 Company registration no: 5967087

Nash College is part of Livability, one of the UK’s largest disability charities. We create choices for disabled people and bring life to local communities.

Livability offers a wide range of services to around 8,000 disabled people and their families.

As well as Nash, we run Hinwick Hall College in Northamptonshire and Victoria Education Centre and Sports College in Dorset, both specialising in education, care and therapy for young people with special educational needs. We also run residential care homes and services to support people in their own homes. Our wheelchairaccessible hotels and holiday homes are based in some of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.

www.livability.org.uk Produced 2010