Modular homes to support special educational needs students in Bristol

Modular homes will be built in Bristol for students with special educational needs (SENs).

The students at the City of Bristol College will be able to use the accommodation to learn how to live independently after finishing their studies, with both existing and new students given the opportunity and support to help develop skills in cooking, cleaning and budgeting.

The homes are a joint £500,000 project between the college and Bristol City Council and the three modern living ‘eco-homes’ consist of two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and a living area.

The college’s Brislington Centre opened in September 2017 and offers a place where students with SEN can stay and learn key life skills from Sunday to Friday. The students return home over the weekend and during college holidays.

The new accommodation also means students who have been residents at the centre for a number of years, will have the chance to further develop the skills they have learned and the opportunity to move out of the residential house and into their own living accommodation.

Dedicated centre staff will continue supporting the students at the level that’s suitable to their needs, including employability skills, effective communication, and strategies to aid memory and punctuality.

Assistant director of SEN and Learning Support at City of Bristol College, Bernadette McGouran, said: ‘The new accommodation means that our students will still be living on-site at the Brislington Centre but with a friend, close to the main house and support if needed, and with the opportunity to live more independently. This will prepare them for the next step after leaving the College.’

Cllr Anna Keen, cabinet member for Education and Skills for Bristol City Council added: ‘The new homes are a great addition to the Brislington Centre which already provides valuable education opportunities for students with SEN.’