Learning Therapies Therapies We have introduced a range of therapies to complement the learning programme. Counselling Services A one to one Counselling service is available onsite to help individuals to cope with the challenges life has to offer. It enables our learners to have a greater degree of self-awareness and understanding of themselves and others. This improves self-esteem, wellbeing and encourages individuals to build resilience. Music Therapy Students have the opportunity to participate in a discrete small group music therapy session. Rather than teaching people to play the musical instruments, music therapy allows an individual the freedom to express their feelings through sounds, silences, gestures and words. Our onsite music therapist facilitates communication and provides the space for students to acknowledge, release and explore often previously unexpressed feelings. Through the use of co—improvised music, an alternative to the language of words is offered, which aims to develop and enable further communication, build self-esteem, and develop social interaction skills. Speech and Language Therapy We offer both group and individual speech and language therapy sessions. This enables students to further develop their communication and social interaction skills whilst building self-esteem to fulfil their aspirations. Occupational Therapy Occupational therapy is available to students who require additional support to enhance their independence in tasks. Working with students, the occupational therapist will identify all necessary resources, equipment and technology to enable them to live productive and fulfilling lives. Physiotherapy Physiotherapy is available to students who require additional support to restore and maintain functional movement, reduce pain and promote health. Art Therapy Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical and mental wellbeing. It encourages students to express and understand emotions and to improve or restore a student’s functioning and his or her sense of wellbeing. It can be used in conjunction with other therapies to enhance self-reflection and a deeper understanding of him or herself. Mindfulness & Wellbeing Enrichment Activities and Workshops We offer students an opportunity to participate in a range of fun and engaging lunch time activities that enhance students’ learning, personal behaviour, self-esteem, health and welfare and develop students communication, social interaction skills. To promote person centred planning students are encouraged to offer ideas for different enrichment activities. Through the student and learning forums they are prompted to talk to staff members and volunteers to identify how to set up and run a group. Examples of some of our current and past lunchtime enrichment activities are:- Badminton and sports club Choir Cultural dance Makaton ‘sing-a-long’ Mindfulness nature club Functional maths compendium club Interaction and social communication activities/ debates Out of session work support Reading club Student support group Arts and crafts Teambuilding games