The Woodlands, previously known as Broom Cottages Pupil Referral Unit, is the Durham County Council provision for permanently excluded pupils, those identified as close to permanent exclusion, and those who cannot attend school because of health needs.
For pupils aged 11-16 the provision is located across 2 bases ‘The Elms’ and ‘The Maples’ in Ferryhill, Durham. The Elms and the Maples have a capacity of 70 pupils.
For pupils age 5-11 the provision is co-located within two mainstream primary schools. and the Beeches are based at Broom Cottages Primary School in Ferryhill, The Willows is temporarily based in Ferryhill. Each Primary base has a capacity of 8 pupils.
The ‘Bridge’ is a provision for pupils who are at risk of permanent exclusion and is based in Lanchester, Durham and has a capacity for 18 KS3 pupils, 18 KS4 pupils and 6 pupils located in the Pathway Identification Programme(PIP). Other provisions based within the building include ‘Waves’ and the ‘LAC Virtual School’.
The Education Health Needs Team was re-aligned to The Woodlands Oct 21 and provides education for pupils who cannot attend school due to health needs. The EHN is based at Sacriston and Leadgate.
Aims:
- To provide appropriate short term educational provision, for up to two terms in Key Stage 3, to pupils who have been permanently excluded.
- To prepare and support pupils in their next step of education, wherever possible in Key Stage 3, should be a return to the mainstream setting
- To provide a provision at Key Stage 4 which prioritises accreditation and prepare pupils for life after they leave The Woodlands.
These aims will be realised through:
- accessing a child centred, structured environment where students can learn and develop with increased effectiveness
- a thorough identification and assessment of individual needs
- planned programmes of education which respond to those identified individual needs
- access to a broad, balanced, relevant curriculum that supports the personal, social moral, spiritual, physical and academic development of pupils
- full assessment of progress in learning and recognition of achievement through accreditation
- working in close partnership with parents / carers
- working in close partnership with other key professional agencies
- supporting student transition into the next stage of education
In Key Stage 3, The Woodlands does not offer a placement that is a long term alternative to mainstream or special education. It is a short term provision which seeks to support all those involved in securing a successful educational future for permanently excluded students.