Birtenshaw College

About the students

Birtenshaw College provides specialist further education for young people aged between 16 and 25 with physical disability, including complex health needs and / or learning disability, including Autism Spectrum Conditions.

The College was established in 2014 initially in partnership with Bolton College in response to the lack of local further education opportunities for young adults with a disability who are over the age of 19 and have difficulty in accessing mainstream college courses because of the level of support they need.

The college achieved independent status in Summer 2016 which provided the opportunity to offer a wider range of courses to a greater range of people, working with local authorities across the North West.

Birtenshaw College provides a unique further education opportunity to young adults with a disability, providing a structured programme which works to develop skills for independent living, literacy and numeracy and work-based vocational skills, and offers therapeutic learning activities.

Catchment

North West England

Curriculum

The Birtenshaw College curriculum is structured around our Total Communication approach where we view every behaviour as communication and work to ensure that we understand what the young person wants or needs and provide effectively to meet those needs.

Each student will access an individualised study programme delivered by qualified staff who are trained and experienced to meet the specific requirements of young adults with the most complex of needs.

Study programmes are accessible, motivating and are delivered at a level that will include progression and may lead to accreditation.

We have 3 pathways on offer, Employability, Learning for Life and Communication and Choice. Within these pathways learners study qualifiactions such as Fucnitonal Skills and ASDAN PPQ as well as RARPA linked to the the Preparing for Adulthood outcomes. 

Alongside these outcomes, learners are supported to develop communication skills, emotional regulation, and receive therapeutic input where appropriate. Personal development, social interaction, and the formal curriculum work together to provide learners with the knowledge and skills needed to become successful and valued members of their communities.

Specialist facilities

Birtenshaw College provides a spacious, safe, and adaptable environment where young people can thrive. Our facilities support a bespoke, individualised curriculum and a Total Communication approach to learning.

Facilities include

• Learner Kitchen 
• Gym
• Multi Use Games Room
• Hydrotherapy pool

Other information