Sheiling School Thornbury

The Sheiling School is an independent residential school for children and adolescents aged 6-19 with special educational needs. The school is part of Camphill Communities Thornbury and a member of the Camphill Movement. We offer both residential placements for termly and weekly boarders, day placements, as well as short term breaks. We are situated... on a beautiful estate of 50 acres of parkland and farmland in the historic small town of Thornbury, South Gloucestershire. Since 1952 the school has continued to develop education and care for pupils with a wide range special educational needs, moderate to severe learning disabilities and complex needs. The rural atmosphere of our large estate and biodynamic farm and garden are a peaceful setting for the life of the school. The physical environment and our unique educational approach greatly benefit the children placed with us, especially those whose insecurity and sensitivity manifest as emotional difficulties and management problems. The school provides an all-inclusive educational, therapeutic and friendly social environment all on one site. Our holistic educational approach is based upon the work of Rudolf Steiner and is similar to Waldorf Education. Along side main subject and academic teaching, there is a strong emphasis on the arts and crafts as well as an extensive outdoor curriculum. Care staff are also involved in the educational programme which means that pupils receive consistent support and continuity of care and education throughout the day. The school has a three-term year with longer holidays at Christmas, Easter and Summer and shorter half terms in October, February and June. Our accommodation and facilities are of a very high standard. The houses are homely, warm and lively places as some houseparents and care workers also make their own homes here. We offer a home life where the pupils learn a range of independence skills at their own pace. Our safe environment permits pupils to walk to school with minimum supervision. All pupils enjoy a good and ...Read More