Derwen College is a specialist residential college committed to promoting the vocational,educational and personal development of young people with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities.Students are encouraged to reach their maximum potential within a vocational framework.

Assessment in all aspects of the curriculum defines an individual programme reflecting each students aspirations , learning styles and support requirements.

Our aim is to provide further education in its broadest sense,including the teaching of vocational skills and the development of daily living and social competences.The extended curriculum is designed to support students in their transition towards independence. Students are sponsored in a variety of ways including the Further Education Funding Councils, Social Services and Training and Enterprise Councils.

The campus has been designed specificaly to cater for the diverse needs of students. The accommodation is of the highest quality and offers a progression from residences with a high lvel of support to live in independent bungalows within the community.

The recommended course length is usually three years. During the first term students sample vocational areas, educational levels, vocational potential and standards of social competence are assessed. Objectives and preferred learning styles are established and a differentiated vocational programme developed which includes supportive education , vocational courses, life skills and leisure activities.

Education Support and Creative Studies An integrated programme of Education Support is provided for all students .Emphasis is placed on key skills.There are opportunities for students to follow courses leading to accreditation in literacy and numeracy. Creative Studies include Music,Drama, Art, Environmental Studies, Current Affairs and Pottery., Photography and Video

There are seven vocational departments- Catering, Office Practice,Retail, Amenity Horticulture, Hotel and Household,Fabrics and Practical Skills. Each department seeks to enable students to develop skills which they can then use in open employment.Vocational education includes training leading to national vocational qualification level 1 or 2 when practicable.

Care support and Social Development

The College provides each student with the appropriate level of care support.This allows students to determine, after consultation with their personal tutor and counsellor , an individual set of life skills objectives to develop independence.