What are your class sizes?

We have class sizes of 7 in years 7 to 11.

Where are the learners based?

Each year group has a classroom tutor-base with associated break-out spaces.  We also have a sensory room and toilet facilities for each classroom. In our dedicated outdoor space, we have a sensory gym, picnic benches and a farm!

Are the learners taught by specialist teachers?

Learners are taught initially by their dedicated base teacher.  Learners will also have lessons delivered by subject specialists.

What support is there for learners?

All year groups have members of the Penthyller team who stay with the class for the whole day.  Mrs Taylor, the base lead, is the first port of call for parents.

We have a team of autism-trained and speech-and-language SEND support staff in the wider school who will at times support at Penthyller. Some will support in class, while some have more specialist roles such as supporting engagement, delivering ELSA sessions or delivering interventions.

What curriculum do you follow?

We follow the universal curriculum for all subjects, with individual and class adaptations as needed. Learners follow a timetable of 4 lessons a day. For detailed curriculum plans, please click here.

In addition, Penthyller students have 'learning for life' lessons each day.

Do Penthyller learners access the universal (mainstream) site and classes?

In Years 7 and 8, students are taught in their class base. For most lessons, they are taught in their classroom. However, they access specialist rooms in the main building for lessons such as science, drama, DT and music.

In Years 8 and 9, students join mainstream PE classes, and in Year 9 students additionally take one preference subject with a mainstream class. 

In Years 10 and 11, students have their core lessons in the specialist base, and take at least three preferences in mainstream classes.

What is the Penthyller uniform?

Please click here for details of our uniform. Reasonable adjustments are available on an individual basis.

To explore sensory-friendly uniform, click here.

Are there opportunities for learners to join clubs and school trips?

Penthyller learners are able to join the extra-curricular opportunities on offer. We will also run a break-time club in the base and bespoke trips throughout the year.

How can I view Penthyller at Penrice?

We welcome families visiting the specialist base for a tour. Please contact us and we will provide a suitable time.  

How do we apply for a place at Penthyller?

Decisions for placement are made by the Local Authority (LA). Requests for placement are through the EHCP annual review process including consultation with a SEND case-worker from the LA. There is no preference towards learners either within feeder schools or currently on roll within our school.