Glasshouse College (Including Argent College)

About the students

Glasshouse College (including Argent College) is an independent specialist college for young adults with learning difficulties and behavioural issues. As part of Ruskin Mill Trust, our students receive our unique Practical Skills Therapeutic Education - a craft and land-based curriculum. We aim to teach our young people valuable, transferable life skills and independence, which allows them to access further education, supported living accommodation, and/or work.

Our learners are predominantly aged 16-25. 

Our staff body has a wealth of experience of working with young people with learning difficulties, such as autism, ASD, ADHD, ODD, Asperger’s Syndrome, as well as behavioural and mental health issues.

Catchment

Nationwide

Curriculum

We provide a craft and land-based curriculum, comprising of:

Hot glass
Jewellery (Argent College only)
Catering
Glass engraving
Bronze Casting
Blacksmithing
Leatherwork (Argent College only)
Weaving
Horticulture
Candlemaking (Argent College only)
Green Woodwork
Drama
Music

Specialist facilities

Glasshouse College is set within a renovated former glass factory including an arts complex, state of the art workshops, recreation areas and cafes, providing students with a range of opportunities to work towards educational and vocational outcomes. Nearby Vale Head Farm allows students to learn the fundamentals of biodynamic (organic) ecology, growing fruit and vegetables for the college canteen as well as raising livestock and managing the woodland.

Glasshouse College also operates Argent College based in Birmingham's vibrant Jewellery Quarter. The curriculum at Argent College honours the industrial heritage of its location, providing exceptional learning opportunites in Jewellery, Leatherwork, Candlemaking, Textiles, Horticulture, Music and Drama. In addition, Argent College has an urban rooftop microfarm, a Heritage Hub and the Hive Organic Cafe and Bakery which operates as a Social Enterprise, providing outstanding work experience opportunities for students.

We welcome students for both day and residential placements. Alongside Practical Skills Therapeutic Education (PSTE), we also offer students Functional Skills, Speech and Language, and other therapies such as Art, Massage and Counselling. They also have the opportunity to work towards AIM Qualifications. When ready, students are also able to access work experience opportunities related to their destination goals, as outlined in their Education, Health and Care plans.
 

Other information

Comprehensive staff training and development opportunities will guide professionals through the Ruskin Mill Trust set of core values, vision, purpose and methodology.