An Open Day was held today at Harrow College’s Spring House for parents of students with Learning Difficulties or Disabilities (LLDD), to introduce them to the new and improved facilities offered at the college. The event was well attended by parents from both in and out of the borough.
Parents were introduced to the new ‘Safe Zone’ at Spring House, a specialised, secure area for PMLD students (Profound Multiple Learning Difficulties). The area comprises of a secure entry into a break out space which leads to the Therapies, Sensory, IT and Art rooms. In the sensory classroom area students will be able to have their daily yoga and physiotherapy sessions moving on through the week, enjoying an interactive curriculum. The IT room has a large, adaptable touch screen for games, literacy, numeracy and many other learning and fun activities to engage students. The Art room is adapted to ensure all students are able to be creative, developing their artistic talents. The hub is the break out area, giving students the opportunity for social interaction, making friends and developing their social skills. The Safe Zone is completely secure environment, all PMLD students will transition from school to this environment to enable them to feel secure as they progress and interact with college life. These facilities will complement the New Outlooks course beginning in September 2017.
The course is suitable for PMLD students aged 16+ will take 2-3 years to complete depending on the individual student. The curriculum is student-led to combine subjects, promote independence and will be delivered with a ‘family of 4’ approach involving the student, the college, home and professionals.
Terry Knight, curriculum manager for the provision said, “The new course and facilities will cater to the growing demand in Harrow and neighbouring boroughs for more local PMLD facilities and services and Harrow College will be aiding this local provision.”
Speaking on the New Outlooks course for PMLD students, Lorna Toussaint, Medical and Rehab assistant also said, “The Safe Zone provides a homely and secure environment for the students. Depending on their individual progress they can transition into other areas of the building/campus. This progress is very much individualised and is a slow process taking into consideration that no two students are alike”.
Liz Tattle, Lecturer for Entry Programmes conducted a complete tour of the facilities for parents while answering their questions. Parents who attended were happy to get an insight into this specialist provision. In addition to the Safe Zone, visitors were also shown other areas of Spring House, including the sensory room, classrooms, kitchen and courtyard.
To book a one to one to discuss your son or daughters needs and to know more about the PMLD New Outlooks course at Harrow College, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 020 8909 6000.