Situated by the coast in the scenic Vale of Glamorgan, Beechwood College is a specialist further education college dedicated to supporting young people and adults (age 18+) with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, Special Educational Needs, and Additional Learning Needs.
We are proud to be a multi-award winning College, with numerous Wales Care Awards for our achievements in care, and a Careers Wales Quality Mark for demonstrating consistently high standards in education.
At Beechwood College we are passionate that young people should be supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential in pursuit of their individual goals and aspirations.
Beechwood College is able to support a diverse student group, with specialist education and support for a range of Special Educational Needs, Additional Learning Needs, and Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Our multidisciplinary team is specially trained to support the unique clinical, physical, learning, sensory, social and emotional needs of all our students.
Education is meaningful and person-centred, and our active learning environment aims to support students to improve their wellbeing and quality of life, build their confidence and skills, and prepare for the next stages of their lives.
Beechwood College offers 41 residential placements and 29 day placements each academic year.
Yes, in addition to day placements and Monday to Friday weekly boarding options, we can also offer full residential placements (up to 52 weeks).
A typical placement at Beechwood College is three years. Some students are here for a shorter period, whilst others may be here longer. This is determined by the student’s individual circumstances and needs, and the availability of funds.
No, some of our students are undiagnosed but may have complex care, support, and education needs that would benefit from the structured support and learning environment that Beechwood College can provide.
We pride ourselves in accommodating a wide range of needs, and where possible we aim to co-produce our care and support plans with students, their loved ones, and their wider circles of support. We deliver education and residential care that is person-centred and tailored to each student, and in line with current best practice guidance.
At Beechwood College we have a broad, adaptable curriculum that focuses on essential and functional skills, life and independence skills, and work-related learning and experience. We teach a range of subjects designed around each students’ unique interests. From pre-entry level ASDAN up to BTEC level 2 qualifications, there are courses for all students regardless of their academic ability.
We understand that each student is unique, with their own interests, skills, potential, needs and abilities, likes and dislikes, strengths and personalities. All students have a tailored, person-centred learning plan based on them as an individual.
Beechwood College offers a wide range of leisure opportunities both on and off campus, and each student has a dedicated evening and weekend planner full of activities they enjoy.
Students are encouraged and supported to go out and have fun as much as possible – cinema visits, bowling, swimming, meals out with friends or day trips to theme parks, shopping, hiking, and even camping!
Beechwood College is part of Iris Care Group, a specialist provider of health and social care services for adults with complex needs. For students leaving Beechwood College, we offer effective transition to a placement within one of Iris Care Group’s specialist residential homes or supported living services across South Wales and the South West of England.
Our residential and supported living services are situated within local communities, providing excellent opportunities for individuals to develop meaningful community connections and access a wide range of social, leisure, educational, and vocation related activities. Suitable accommodation options are offered based on assessed need and personal preference, and include a mixture of self-contained flats, shared homes, and accessible and adapted homes.
Regardless of where the next part of a student’s journey takes them after their time at Beechwood College, our team will be there to support them every step of the way with their transition. This includes onward training for carers, families, and other providers, tailored transition plans, and additional support where required.