The Academy welcomes all students irrespective of the barriers to learning or exceptional talent they may have.

We endeavour to remove or minimise barriers and to develop special talents. Access to the whole Academy and its activities, underpins all learning.

Our intention is to release the potential of all students.

Barriers to learning appear in many forms. For example students may have a specific learning difficulty. This could be a physical; visual; or hearing problem.

Some students arrive with English as an Additional Language (EAL). All students with special needs are given particular support to ensure that they can take advantage of the full learning opportunities.

The support, within the available resources, take a number of forms. These include one-to-one in class support, partnership teaching and small group support. The key intention is to provide for the student in an "inclusive" manner.

So, most students with specific needs work and learn in mainstream classes.

Information Technology support the development of independent learning skills using CD ROMs, the internet and interactive computer technology.

All students have a Learning Plan which will identify their personal needs.

The Learning Plan describes how teachers, para-professionals, other workers and the family/carers work together to meet the student’s needs.

Likewise, students who are exceptionally gifted and talented may require accelerated learning programmes to stimulate and support their progress. They are supported in a variety of ways.

For example, some may be entered early for examinations and benefit from the pre-University courses. These are developed in association with our Higher Education partners such as Queen Mary College, University of London, the University of East London and similar institutions in East London.

Our graduates are strongly represented in local vocational and academic careers, especially within our specialisms of Medical Sciences, Health and Social Care. For many, University education is an early identified goal.

Regular assessments provide detailed information for students, charting progress and amending the Learning Plan where necessary.

Information is available via the website and this ensures that parents and carers can be actively involved in supporting their child’s development.