New year, new possibilities

A fresh start for all

One of Salisbury School's students has been reading the 'Wings of Fire' books and created this beautiful piece of art as a result. A great example of learning engagement and class room inspiration.

Throughout the year you are supporting your (new) students growing their wings too in preparation of their future adult life. You will also quickly discern what students need to really thrive.

As you weigh alternative success strategies for those students with educational needs relating to vision, hearing, and socialisation, behaviour, and learning: why not consider a residential specialist school?

A short-term intervention could mean a re-start for some pupils to transition back into their home school environment with more confidence and enthusiasm.

Check out a couple of ways Salisbury School could help some of your female students get into full swing below.

"Home away from home"

“The boarding experience at Salisbury is integral to the wrap-around care that is unique to our school and we do try as much as possible to give the cottages a ‘home away from home’ vibe.

There is much to learn that will enhance your daughter's life skills and independent living skills and the experienced and caring staff are very in tune with each girl's individual needs.

Part of this experience includes the welcome visits by some of the staff’s furry friends. The girls love the inclusion of these special dogs in their daily lives at Salisbury and they add a therapeutic level to the girls' well-being. Charlie is part of the furniture at Salisbury and has been ‘attending’ since he was 8 weeks old so has a special relationship with the school and a natural charm that puts the girls at ease.“

***Lyndsay Hikuroa, Residential Programme Afternoon Team Lead***

When to consider a Residential Specialist School (RSS)?

RSS intervention for students is often discussed among RTLBs and Learning Support staff with classroom teachers and parents, when local support and opportunities are either not available or have not had enough impact on the child's development.

Salisbury School's expertise in the following areas has delivered positive outcomes for RSS students and might be worth considering as a targeted approach to support some of your own pupils:

Ongoing 24/7 attention and support - nothing beats a consistent, nurturing and supportive environment to help students grow. As a day school teacher and a parent you can only do so much. Consistent routines, structure and a culture of care every day of the week, 24/7, allows students' strengths and achievements to expand quicker.

Social and life skills - Behavioural and social skills are a central part of Salisbury's programmes. Students learn how to communicate with their mates and teachers in a positive manner (e.g. PB4L) and how to resolve issues that they may encounter when dealing with others. The 'Friendship Formula' gives them the tools to grow better relationships with their peers. These skills will be of value during their whole life.

After school activities - learning outside the classroom is a great part of students' joy and helps them to apply what they have learned in a different environment. These activities range from trying to ride a horse or bike for the first time, expressing themselves through arts and crafts, practising yoga and mindfulness or clocking hours for their Student Volunteer Army services at St John's charity.

Learning to be more independent - a programme that combines day school with a residential suite of activities will set up students for life. Their flat is a safe haven to relax or tend to chores to keep their room tidy, the place to get ready for school, make their own breakfast and lunch boxes which all adds up to (home away from home) routines that foster independence.

Relationship with environment - as a Green-Gold Enviroschool students are very much involved in maintaining and developing the school's wetland area, native gardens, creek and nursery. Beach visits, exploring nature on walks and learning about the impact of waste on the environment are fun and informative lessons that contribute to the overall wellbeing and enviro awareness of students.

Regroup - transitioning into Salisbury School and back to the local school is carefully planned and discussed with family and the school. It allows parents and teachers to regroup and review how best to support the child before, during and after the residential chapter in her life.

Success planning - Every step links to the student's individual education plan that builds on their personal strengths and aims to stand by the student throughout their residential school's journey.

We hope you will consider Salisbury when looking for tailored learning opportunities that could make a difference in a young person's life.