Cumberland Bridge School

Local Offer

Cumberland Bridge School is an independent, specialist day school in Lancashire providing high quality education for girls and boys aged 11 to 18. 

The school meets the needs of a diverse group of students with ASC and a range of complex learning needs.

At Cumberland School we are committed to giving our students a creative, caring and innovative learning environment for them to achieve their full potential in their education and developing their social communication.

Who to contact

Contact Name
Sue Gill
Contact Position
Head Teacher
Telephone
01772 284435 01772 284435
E-mail
cumberland@witherslackgroup.co.uk
Website
https://witherslackgroup.co.uk/.../cumberland-school
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Where to go

Name
Cumberland Bridge School
Address
Church Rd
Bamber Bridge
Preston
Lancashire
Postcode

PR5 6EP

View PR5 6EP on a map

Costs

Details
Costs vary depending on the individual needs of the young person.

Availability

Referral required
Yes
Referral Details

The school operates a referral policy, usually initiated by the local authority. However, parents/carers can take a look round the school by contacting the school office direct to organise a visit.

Local Offer

Description

What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?

We always look forward to welcoming a new pupil to the school. If your child is preparing to start at Cumberland School we will do our very best to learn as much about you and your child as possible. We will speak to you and your child before they start and will arrange to meet with you at the school or come to your home. We work hard to make sure that we understand what works for you and your child and what you want them to achieve whilst at school. We particularly want to get to know what your child’s interest are and what they enjoy doing, so we can not only help them succeed but also enable them to enjoy their time at school.

When your child starts with us they will be assessed by our Educational Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist, and Occupational Therapist. Although all of our pupils arrive with an individual Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan, and have been assessed as having Special Educational Needs prior to coming to Cumberland, we are able to identify any additional needs through our rigorous baseline assessment processes.

As part of the assessment process the Teachers, Teaching Assistants, pastoral care staff, Senior Leadership Team, and SEN Co-coordinator all ensure that pupil needs are identified and the targets in their Individual Education Plans (IEP) are set and reviewed regularly. The level of support each pupil receives will depend on their level of need. We take pride in having high expectations of pupils and providing high levels of support to help pupils achieve. Our rigorous assessment system ensures that pupil progress is constantly tracked and the necessary interventions are put in place to accelerate learning.

The high staff to pupil ratio ensures that your child will be very well supported, with at least one Teacher and one Teaching Assistant in each class. The class sizes at our school are no bigger than eight pupils and this allows us to deliver focused and well supported lessons.

We have the same pupil progress expectations as mainstream schools with an extra challenge target to help them ‘catch-up’ if they have fallen behind their age expectations. All pupils at Cumberland School have access to the National Curriculum and they will be working towards GCSEs, and other relevant and nationally recognised qualifications. Every pupil has an ‘Internal Team around the Child’ (iTAC) that ensure your child will feel safe and happy in school and that they are making good progress, both academically and socially. This team will be a central in all communication between home and school with parents and carer’s being a significant part of the ‘team around the child’. A large element of the curriculum will be tailored to meeting the individual needs of each pupil and delivered in an inspirational, stimulating and enjoyable environment.

If your child is finding it hard to make progress in the classroom then small group intervention programs can be set up in order to give them individual support to help then move forward. We can even arrange for regular home visits from our liaison worker to provide additional support when required, as well as one to one learning support and home study support if appropriate.

We have fully qualified subject specific teachers who have a wealth of experience working with young people who have a range of different learning needs. All staff receive regular training and support to make sure we continue to meet the needs of all pupils in the school. We have a comprehensive training package in place for all staff in targeted at improving knowledge and expertise in working with pupils with ASD (Bridge Campus) and SEMH Beacon Campus) and a range of associated learning difficulties. We have an extensive induction and training program for all of our staff. This ensures that they have a strong background in SEN practice, which translates into a culture of support, partnership and high expectations in the school.

Cumberland School has a growing vocational curriculum on offer with Media Studies and catering being offered on site and we work closely with a range of other providers, where pupils can learn and gain qualifications in Motor Vehicle Studies, Construction, Hair and Beauty courses, Small Animal Care Horticulture and even Fisheries Management. The off-site centres are all formally monitored, both by external agencies like Ofsted and by ourselves, to ensure that all pupils are safe and receive the best support and education possible.

How accessible is the school?

Cumberland Bridge School is located in a welcoming single storey building, with bright, wide corridors and an accessible playing field and school yard. The building has facilities for wheelchair users including toilet facilities.

We make accessing important information about what we do easy. You can find information about the school and news of recent events on the website and in the school newsletter. Information for pupils such as school rules, timetables, menus and rewards are displayed on walls around the school and in all classrooms. Policies and procedures can be obtained through the school web site and on request from the school office. Information from the school can be provided in a range of formats upon request.

At Cumberland School we have a dedicated Pupil Liason Officer who works closely with parents and carers to ensure everyone knows how well our pupils are doing and are able to offer support and guidance when required.

We have a comprehensive range of resources that reflect the needs of the pupil population and we use a range of differentiated communication styles, where appropriate, and place significant emphasis on the use of communication and language. We consider the sensory needs of our children throughout the school; ensuring wall displays are not distracting to pupils when they are learning in class and that the classes are clutter free and private study areas are available, if needed.  Pupils have access to both Sensory and Sensory Integration rooms as part of the school curriculum. We will make use of the latest innovations in assistive teaching technology to support your child’s learning and to cater for their individual sensory and communications needs.

If English is not the first language of your child we endeavour to provide a support assistant who speaks their language to assist them in the classroom until your child can understand without support. In reviews we organise for translators to be present to ensure all involved can contribute.

How does the school review and evaluate outcomes?

When your child starts at Cumberland School we meet after six weeks to review how well they have settled into school and to plan with you and your child what you want to achieve in the coming year. A regular annual review, including all the people who work with your child, will allow us to discuss progress and ensure that everyone is working in partnership to ensure the best possible outcomes for your child.

Regular contact with parents and carers (both formally and informally) by our iTAC teams ensure that you are kept up to date with the progress being made. The iTAC team are always on hand to speak to you; we know that pupils progress well when everyone works closely together. We want to make sure that you are aware of the targets that have been set for your child, how they are progressing to these and how we are encouraging and rewarding their hard work and progress. It is important that we are all able to celebrate your child’s achievements and ensure that we adapt their targets so that they continue to be challenged and develop.

Regular meetings take place in order to ensure that we report to you about how well your child is doing in school. This gives us a formal opportunity to review progress and work together to plan for the future. Termly assessment and reporting of pupil progress ensures that we know how well your child is progressing and what support they need in order to reach their potential. We monitor pupil’s academic and social and emotional progress using a range of assessment and diagnostic tools. These inform reporting and planning your child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). Our assessment process means we track individual pupil progress and ensure appropriate interventions are put in place, when required, to ensure accelerated learning. Teachers conduct full subject audits three times a year to identify individual progress and adjust their teaching and resources to reflect your child’s needs.

We arrange annual review meetings where their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHC) are reviewed. If it is felt that an EHC Plan requires reviewing in the interim period then an additional review is arranged to suggest the necessary amendments in conjunction with parents, the local authority and the pupil.

The school is monitored regularly by external agencies and Witherslack Group’s Quality Assurance team. We spend time making sure that the school is working effectively for you and your child and that the resources we have in place meet the needs of all the pupils.

We understand that some of the key successes and outcomes for your child will be measured by what they do once they leave our school. This is why we concentrate on the development of the whole person throughout their time at Cumberland School. Academic and Vocational progress are important but so are the development of life skills, effective social communication and social skills. This approach ensures pupils have the necessary skill set that allows them to become more independent as they approach life after school.

 

How does the school keep pupils safe?

The most recent Ofsted inspection of our school rated our approach to the safety of our pupils as ‘Good’.

When your child starts at Cumberland School a pre-admission document is collated. This gathers together as much information as possible to give an accurate view of your child. All pupils work with their tutor team to develop a Positive Behaviour Plan. This individualised document identifies and communicates what support your child might need and in what circumstances. This helps to make sure that our pupils feel less anxious and are supported effectively with their decision making.

When your child joins the school a personalised risk assessment (Young Person Risk Assessment YPRA) will be produced based on all the information we have received. For each area of assessment the risk level will be high until an opportunity to assess has occurred. For example, we cannot assess road safety until we have taken your child off-site, so the risk assessment will remain high up to that point.

Risk assessments are produced for all areas and activities on and off-site. Risk assessments are obtained for external activities and a further risk assessment is completed from a school perspective, taking into account safety, communication and sensory needs. Risk assessments will be carried out by your child’s keyworker; but input will be taken from all staff who have worked with them. The risk assessment is reviewed annually but can be updated at any time.

Pupils come into school before 08:50am and are dropped off in the school yard where they are met by members of staff and go into breakfast club, along with their form tutors and TA’s. There is opportunity at this time for a handover of information and to start the day with a brief assembly. Break and lunch times are well staffed so that pupils are supported and safe throughout the whole day. At lunch your child will sit at the dining table with at least one member of staff and after lunch pupils can take part in a range of activities.

All off-site activities are risk assessed and appropriately staffed, to ensure the highest levels of safety and enjoyment. We have specialist qualified instructors delivering outdoor education. All staff receive training and support to ensure that when pupils are away from the school site they are well prepared and safe. All staff are qualified First Aiders and staff who drive minibuses have completed their MIDAS minibus test. Staff are also trained in the management of medication. Risk assessments are site specific and regularly reviewed to ensure that appropriate measures are taken for specific individuals and groups of pupils on educational visits.

Cumberland School works hard to ensure that pupils feel safe, and secure in school; we know that is when pupils are most able to succeed. We have a strong culture of anti-bullying and monitor and address any issues of bullying. Citizenship and PHSE lessons address bullying as part of the on-going work, which includes anti-bullying week and outside speakers coming into school. Our anti-bullying policy is available on the school website or on request from the school office.

How does the school promote a healthy lifestyle?

We take our responsibility for your child’s health and wellbeing very seriously. Our staff receive training on the safe keeping and administration of medication and all medication is stored in a double locked Medication cabinet. Detailed records are kept of all medication received in school and when they are administered to any pupils.

All staff in school have a recognised First Aid qualification and a number of staff also hold ‘The First Aid at Work’ qualification. The school has a Defibrilator on site and staff have been trained in its use. Where there to be a medical emergency staff follow protocols which include appropriate first response and alerting the appropriate emergency service if necessary. We would always ensure that you would be immediately informed by school staff if your child was unwell while at school.

We also have a school nurse and we have a Therapeutic services team, which includes Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapists and Mental Health Practitioners. Our therapists work across all iTAC teams and with each individual child.

How does the school communicate with parents?

Communication is something that is central to the way our school operates. We place a great deal of importance on communicating effectively with all parents and have dedicated staff to help ensure excellent standards of communication.

When your child starts at Cumberland, or at the start of a new school year, you will be given a point of contact in the iTAC team. Regular phone calls and meetings will then be arranged to discuss your child’s progress, discuss any concerns and most importantly celebrate their successes and achievements. Parental visits to the school are always welcome and give you the opportunity to get to know the school and the staff, and get a feel for our culture and the positive atmosphere.

A full school report will be sent to you prior to your child’s annual review and termly reports on progress will be sent to you at the end of each term. We operate an open door policy for parents, so you can make an appointment at any time if you want to discuss anything, arrange for us to call you or come and visit you at home. We always want you to feel like you can talk to us and ask any questions.

We invite all parents and carers into school for celebration assemblies. You are an important member of the school community and we want you to feel welcome and comfortable in talking and meeting with us. You will be invited to school for open days and a range of parent events and workshops which will help you support your child’s needs. They will focus on specific areas and offer practical advice and support, as well as providing advice and support resources that you can take home. These events act as a great way to ensure we are all working together and they also provide informal opportunities to talk with you and answer any questions you may have.

We are always keen to get feedback from parents and carers; we conduct an annual survey as well as feedback received during reviews/meetings/iTAC. At Cumberland School we understand the importance of working in partnership with parents and carers and welcome feedback, especially if it is something you think we could have done better or improve on. When your child joins the school we will make you aware of our complaints procedure and let you know how we will respond to any complaints you may have. You can also give verbal feedback to the school at any time. Details of our complaints policy can be found on the website.

We understand the importance of confidentiality and operate to the highest standards possible to ensure that we communicate with you in an appropriate, considerate and confidential manner around all aspects of your child’s education and care.

How does the school promote working together?

Cumberland School has a track record of meeting the needs of its pupils and helping each young person to thrive and develop. Much of this is due to our ethos of working as a team. This includes all staff and extends to our pupils, parents and their wider families. We have a number of initiatives that help us to work together effectively across the school for the combined benefit of the pupils.

Our school has a School Council which comprises of pupil representatives from across the school who are elected by their fellow pupils. A representative of the School Council meets on a termly basis with the Head Teacher to discuss all aspects of the school. We find that this is a great way to empower pupils to have a real say in the school’s future and be part of helping Cumberland to continue to improve.

Our peer mentoring program offers training and support to pupils who have the capacity to help other pupils. This fosters a close community spirit which gives responsibility to pupils and reinforces the school ethos of developing both independence and resilience. We are very proud when we see our pupils helping and supporting each other.

We like to share regular updates and news on our web site, our social media page and newsletters. This gives everyone the opportunity to see what is happening at the school and also celebrate in the good news and positive activities that take place in the school on a daily basis. We also feature the projects and initiatives that our pupils and staff take part in with charities and the local community as a whole. This is something that we are very proud of.

Cumberland School work in partnership with Education, Health and Social Care agencies, alongside others including CAMHS. Student support staff and pupil liaison staff ensure that all interested parties are part of the planning, monitoring and evaluation process.

Our Home and School Contract sets out what you can expect from Cumberland School and what you can do to help ensure that your child makes the best possible progress. It states how we will work in partnership with you to meet the aspirations of you and your child.

What help and support does the school offer to families?

We are able to offer a range of support and practical help to you and your family. This will include our Pupil Liaison Officer helping you to complete all the necessary paperwork prior to your child starting at Cumberland. These initial meetings can be at your home or at the school. If you would like assistance at any time with any documentation or paperwork, just let us know.

We are able to offer a wide range of support, guidance and practical advice from our Therapy Team. This may include the opportunity for you and your family to have access to our Educational Psychologist, School Nurse, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Mental Health Practitioners.

We are committed to supporting you as a parent and your family as whole. If we don’t have the answer we usually know where to get it. You can contact our Pupil Liaison Officer or your child’s form tutor and they will be able to direct you to the most appropriate member of staff.

Our Pastoral Care Manager can work with you to access further help and support. We will communicate with you regularly so we are aware of the help you need and can help you to obtain it. This may include help to improve your child’s health, independence, college options or activities outside of the school day.

You will have access to a wide range of practical advice and support resources and you will be invited to attend our regular iTAC meetings and advice workshops. These focus on giving practical and helpful advice and tips on a variety of relevant issues, including behaviour, travelling, sleep problems and dietary issues.

When you are planning for your child’s future (including college options) our Careers Officer and iTAC Team can provide guidance and support, arranging and facilitating college visits, if needed.

Our school works with some Local Authorities to provide transport to and from school and to ensure that your child is well supported on their journey at the start and end of the day. This ensures that your child will have a regular drivers and escorts who work for the school and provide consistent contact and a familiar routine for you and your child. We understand the importance of the start and finish of the day and know that this sets the climate for learning and returning home. Skilled, trained and experienced staff make sure that this is done in a safe and positive manner.

How does the school support new pupils and school leavers?

To support our young people and their families we develop individually tailored transition plans for all pupils starting school or moving on to college. These include regular supported visits and appropriate handover of information, to ensure that transition is as smooth as possible. We know that starting a new school is an anxious time and we ensure that your child is supported during this challenging time with care and empathy.

When your child is preparing to start at our school, our staff will support them in developing the skills and experience in the build up to their start date. This may include home visits, visits into school and taster days, where your child can spend time with their new teacher and classmates. If your child is nervous about starting we can arrange for them to attend part-time at the school whilst they build their confidence.

Our Speech and Language team help your child to prepare for adulthood through social communication lessons. They work on a focus in class and help them to deal with social situations such as starting conversations or going for an interview. As your child gets older and more confident in school they will start a program aimed at developing their life skills which means they can transfer skills learnt in school into everyday life, for example complaining appropriately, managing money, ordering food and travelling independently.

When your child is preparing to leave and move on to college or employment our Transition Officer will arrange college visits and will accompany them, if needed. We can arrange careers advice for your child through career lessons or careers advisers. We have a Careers’ Open Day to advise and guide you and your child with transition to college.

We have extremely close links with local colleges and work experience providers. We can arrange work experience placements so that your child can try different working environments and see if a job that they are interested in is actually something they enjoy and like. We can also support transition into further education by arranging college taster days or accompanying your child when they visit college. We will develop detailed plans for your child’s next steps as they move into Key Stage 4 and will make sure we help them along each part of the process.

The individualised timetables that we develop for your child is based on their chosen vocational pathway and will include work experience, college placements and vocational studies, in order to support the transition into life outside school. We are proud that Cumberland has a strong record of pupils remaining in education or employment when leaving school. We are also excited that from this school year we will be offering a sixth form option for our students for the first time.

What extra-curricular activities does the school offer?

All pupils in school have the opportunity to access Outdoor Education trips and off-site education visits, sometimes residential trips. These trips are a fundamental part of Cumberland School’s holistic education and are therefore funded by the school. Pupil’s access to these trips is based on individual risk assessments and appropriate adjustments are made to ensure that all pupils access these opportunities in a safe and positive way.

At lunchtime we offer the choice of a wide range of activities and clubs including arts and crafts, console games, film club, sports, outdoor activities, indoor games and also quiet time. All pupils attend lunch activities and it is a good opportunity to make friends outside of their class.

Some of our older pupil’s act as peer mentors and act as ‘buddies’ to ensure that your child is supported during break times and lunchtimes. With the support given by the iTAC team, opportunities are made to develop friends in the school quickly. Lots of work is done on developing the skills to be able to make friends and how to keep friendship through our citizenship and PHSE programs, and also our mentoring program.

After school clubs are developed for individuals and groups of pupils based on their interest and currently include Duke of Edinburgh Award, computer games club and a number of sports clubs.

Contact Name
Sue Gill
Contact Telephone
01772 284435
Contact Email
cumberland@witherslackgroup.co.uk
Links
https://witherslackgroup.co.uk/.../cumberland-school
Local Offer Age Bands
11-16 years
16-19 years
Needs Level
High
SEN Provision Type
Specialist

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