Despite the best efforts of schools nationwide, funding and staffing constraints are a reality. It’s increasingly difficult for them to cater for the growing number of young people with SEND, or to meet the specific criteria on EHCPs. Not only that, but creative subjects like Art & Design or Music are normally the first to be cut from the curriculum when resources are scarce. These are often the very subjects that students with SEND find most enjoyable and engaging. As a result, a significant number of students with SEND are either missing large chunks of school or are completely unable to participate in mainstream education. The results speak for themselves. For example, according to the Buckland Review (February, 2024), autistic graduates are twice as likely to be unemployed after 15 months compared with their peers, and when they do find work, they’re the most likely to be overqualified for the job they have. It’s becoming ever clearer that education isn’t one size fits all.
Our aim is to provide inspirational places of learning for neurodiverse students by tapping into their authentic interests. Over time we hope to change the perception of school as a place of confusion and fear for students with SEND into one of acceptance, engagement, learning, happiness and potential. By creating an inclusive learning environment, specifically designed for students with SEND, we rebuild their confidence, working with SENDCOs to create a pathway back into mainstream education or preparing students to graduate and move into work.
“Being a parent of a child with special needs (Aspergers) is challenging enough without having to put out fires all day in a mainstream educational setting. When we opted for EOB Academy, little did we know that it would be THE place where my child would bloom and feel so good about going in that it would put an end to school refusal. ”
“EOB has been a revelation to our family and particularly our Corey. Throughout Corey’s young life he has been squeezed into a system that not only did not support him but did not recognise his incredible talents..”
“My EOB experience has been overwhelmingly positive and accommodating. My complex mental and physical needs have been met and every step has been taken to make sure I am comfortable.”
“I have enjoyed learning Game Design at Enemy of Boredom for these past two years because of the support of the tutors and staff helping me to understand the curriculum. They have also supported me to develop socially and have provided many options to boost my confidence and motivation.”
