Our Academy

Portland Academy is a designated provision for learners aged 11-19 who have severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties.

The majority of pupils travel to school in transport provided by the Local Authority, some more able pupils are taught to use the local bus services and travel to school independently.

A dedicated and talented professional team work closely with pupils to provide the best opportunities for all. We work with a wide multi-agency team to ensure the full range of care and welfare needs of our pupils are met. We have a full-time nurse on site and part time physiotherapists, occupational therapist and speech therapist. Many medics hold their clinics on site to enable staff to attend when needed. Our café is open to all and is a great place for parents to meet others whilst waiting to join an assembly or attend a meeting.

We are a warm and welcoming special academy with a high focus on the achievement of both academic and social skills. We aim to meet the very individual needs of all of our pupils and their families.

As an Ascent Academy, we draw on a wide range of expertise in special educational needs to ensure that we offer the very best provision for our pupils. The academy site and grounds are secure and there is very good access for those who use wheelchairs or are unsteady on their feet. Classrooms and hygiene suites have hoists, tracking and the main corridor has a grip rail to support independent walking.

The academy has excellent facilities, including a therapy pool, sensory room and ICT suite. We have extensive grounds with a woodland walk, 5 a-side pitch, sensory garden and cycle track. This, together with a relevant, progressive and challenging curriculum delivered and supported by committed staff, enables us to offer a wonderful range of varied opportunities to enrich our pupils’ lives.

We greatly value the benefits of working closely with parents and professionals and hold regular meetings and social events to support families.

If you would like more information or wish to see the facilities for yourself, please get in touch, visitors are always welcome.