Note from the Head
Appleford School was founded in 1988 for boys and girls, age 7-14 years, with dyslexia and associated learning difficulties. We are a small, warm and caring community where every child matters.
The school offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding for two thirds of its pupils. The remainder are day pupils but there are opportunities for them to extend their day if wished. The home/school partnership is a vital part of the school’s success.
There is a whole school approach using research-based multi-sensory programmes and resources. A full National Curriculum is taught which falls in line with the school’s DfES approval as a Residential Special School. Pupils are taught in small groups of 7-12 with the additional benefit of a Learning Support Assistant in
all English lessons and some Maths lessons. These subjects are taught in the mornings and
other National Curriculum subjects are taught in the afternoons.
As a minimum, all teachers of English are qualified in the teaching of dyslexic children or are undergoing training, and the majority of staff teaching Maths have additional qualifications. Many of these staff also offer a specialist subject — Science, Humanities, PE or Art for example - so members of staff
demonstrate the ability to meet the needs of the dyslexic child in all aspects of the curriculum.
Prep/homework sessions built into the school day are supervised by the member of staff responsible for setting the work. Whilst encouraging independent study, support is available as necessary. In addition, our Key Stage 3 pupils undertake private study sessions after school to prepare them for their senior schools.
To support the PE/Games and fixtures programmes we have an exciting and extensive range of extra-curricular activities ranging from cookery to gardening, archery, Scottish country dancing and computers. Some pupils opt for riding lessons, learn to play an instrument or join the judo club.
All pupils have an IEP and there is on-site support from an Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. There is access to our psychologist and counselling is available as necessary. We are an open school and teaching staff are available to meet with parents every Friday or by appointment at other times to discuss your child’s academic, pastoral and social needs.
There are many highlights of the Appleford Year — Apple Day, Book Week, Harvest Festival, Carol Service, Ski Trip, Activities Week, Sports Day to name but a few. If you want to know more of what Appleford has to offer then book a visit. A ‘test’ day or overnight stay can be arranged to determine whether or not Appleford is the right school for your child. We will need an educational psychologist’s report and copies of recent school reports. We look forward to meeting you.
If you would like to begin this process, do not hesitate to contact the school on 0800 135 7314 or email us on secretary@appleford.wilts.sch.uk.