Special school in Dunstable celebrates 10th anniversary of its sixth form

A special school in Dunstable has celebrated the 10th anniversary of its sixth form.

Teachers, students, parents and carers, – as well as local businesses – came together at Weatherfield Academy Special School on March 24 to mark the milestone. The sixth form unit was a new addition to the school back in 2013, created to support and prepare students with special educational needs for the next stage of their lives.

Students past and present joined the event along with special guests mayor Liz Jones and the school’s chair of governors Jacqui Hunt.

Carol Patterson, head of sixth form, said: “The sixth form students have been very excited about celebrating this milestone. The students have been busy decorating the building and classrooms with balloons and bunting, and welcomed guests with tea and coffee last Friday. They feel very proud of their sixth form, and we are all very proud of the students’ achievements, which were recognised with special certificates awarded to students who had shown values such as kindness, resilience, and independence.”

A special award was presented to Luke Husbands for his mature behaviour and attitude, being helpful with students and staff, working hard in all his lessons and on achieving his Leadership Level 6 accreditation.

There was a fantastic atmosphere on the day, and everyone who took part spoke about how wonderful Weatherfield is as a school, with each and every student epitomising the school’s motto – to be the best person you can be.

The day concluded with the ceremonial cutting of the specially designed cake, and all sixth form students were given a personalised hoody to mark the occasion.

Weatherfield Academy supports students who find it difficult to maintain their progress in mainstream educational settings. Up until a decade ago, these students had no choice but to leave Weatherfield School at the end of Year 11, often fearful of what the future may hold and unsure what their next steps may be.

Weatherfield’s sixth form has given these students extra time in a safe and nurturing environment, allowing them to flourish and grow in confidence, and this was evidenced by all the success stories heard last Friday about past students who now have rewarding jobs in the local community.