Student Stories

Our students have a wide range of disabilities and are all working on different skills to develop independence and communication using a person-centred approach. Here are stories of some of our current students.

Ettie is in her first year at college.

‘The transition to college has been so incredibly positive for our daughter, we couldn’t have asked for a better start for her in making the big step towards more independence.’

‘The experienced and skilled staff have helped her quickly form relationships with them and feel a great sense of belonging. She comes home happy, relaxed, and proud of herself- we can see her confidence growing already.’

Archie is a year 2 student at college.

Archie had never stayed away from home for a prolonged period before. He has gone from staying a few nights to staying weekly and is now a fortnightly residential student, this has helped greatly with building his independence skills and his self-confidence.
Archie is learning how to make choices about how he would like to spend his time, and what he would like to eat and drink. He is growing in confidence and engaging with a wider range of people. Archie is also beginning to be less uncertain about touching items, and exploring using his own hands which he shows by reaching out to tap items to participate.

‘We were apprehensive about Archie starting a residential college, as historically he has struggled during respite care.

But we needn’t have worried, as the teaching and residential staff have got to really know and understand Archie. They’ve made him feel safe and happy, which has made his transition to college life a really enjoyable experience.

He is thriving and excelling at St Martin’s, all thanks to the dedicated people who work there’.

Charlie is a year 2 student at college.

Charlie had struggled with transitions into school in the past but since being at college Charlie has become independent and is able to regulate himself.

‘We were thrilled that Charlie settled into College life so seamlessly with great support from the amazing staff and an engaging, personalised timetable.’