A Unique School for Unique Students

February 24, 2022

Choosing a school or residential care for a child or young person with additional support needs can be a complex and often overwhelming process for families.

Parent’s know their children better than anyone else: their strengths and their unique needs. So, it’s not surprising that for many parents, the number one priority is finding a school that treats students as the individuals they are.

Being inclusive and caring for each person’s unique needs and aspirations is something that Camphill School Aberdeen in the north east of Scotland knows all about. Nestled among the rolling hills of west Aberdeen, the independent charity aspires to be as diverse as the youngsters that make up its shared living community, offering a haven to children and young people who often struggle to thrive in mainstream services.

Currently providing day and residential placements to around 90 students across the region, the school offers an inclusive, lifelong learning culture with an integrated therapeutic approach to health, education and care.

Here are a few more things that make Camphill School Aberdeen different from the rest:

It’s a true Pioneer

Founded in 1939, Camphill School Aberdeen was the first of its kind in Britain, sparking the worldwide Camphill movement which now consists of over 120 independent charities, in 23 countries. At a time when young people with disabilities in Britain were passed by in terms of education, the founder of the school took a different path. With the help of a group of Austrian refugees, Dr Karl Konig created a shared community for children and young people with complex and challenging needs, a place everyone could feel safe, respected and included. 

Its students are at the heart of everything

When it comes to learning, care and support, Camphill School Aberdeen is student centric. Following the ethos of its founder Dr Konig, it uses educational, therapeutic and creative approaches to enhance the well being of students. A calm, safe and family environment has been created on campus where mutual relationships between students can flourish, alongside the natural environment.

It empowers young people to learn and reach their potential

We empower young people, regardless of their abilities, to become confident, independent and reach their fullest potential. Through its Learning for Life Day Services, young people are offered a range of meaningful activities. From repairing old bikes in the garage workshop to taking part in art, weaving or felting lessons - everyone has the chance to learn new skills in a community which celebrates personal achievements.

It’s committed to sustainability

On campus we treat each other and the environment with mutual care and respect. The 50-hectares of open space and woodlands ensure young people have freedom to develop without physical barriers. Sustainability is at the core of all services, with students growing and eating their own organic meat and vegetables, reducing waste, decreasing carbon emissions and practicing the principles of the circular economy. 

 

It’s a tight-knit community with family values

Everyone belongs, is valued and has something meaningful to offer at Camphill School Aberdeen. There are ten residential houses on campus with young people and staff living side by side in a true home from home setting, sharing living experiences. Healthy routines are introduced into daily life which include activities such as cooking ,house work, laundry and gardening. The focus is on developing both independence and care for each other in a mutually supportive environment.

It takes a holistic approach

From therapeutic art and music to specially selected workshop activities, the school offers a range of support therapies. Research indicates therapies like this have a positive impact on the health, wellbeing and quality of life of young adults with complex additional support needs. 

…And it’s has the facts to prove it works

Life at Camphill School Aberdeen is truly transformational with 87% of students achieving or exceeding personal milestones and on average a 40% drop in challenging behaviors . At Camphill young people typically become better equipped to manage their health and wellbeing, with over 95% of parents testifying to this, many are entered for SQA National Qualifications and others complete their Duke of Edinburgh Award.   

 

Every year it delivers life transforming outcomes for thousands of children and young people who struggle to thrive in mainstream education due to a range of complex and multiple diagnoses, such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Down’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Attachment Disorder and Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

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