Venturers’ Academy students prove that everything is possible!

Venturers’ Academy in Withywood and St Anne’s Park, a special school for children with a primary diagnosis of autism, is celebrating the fantastic achievements of its current Year 11 students who sat their exams earlier this summer. Altogether Venturers’ Academy has 224 students across three sites, including its brand new purpose built school in Withywood.

The 13 students currently in Year 11 studied a range of qualifications including Level 1 or Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English, as well as Entry Level in Science and GCSE Foundation Maths. Students have also studied for and achieved AQA Unit Awards; ASDAN Awards; Sports Leaders Qualifications; Duke of Edinburgh Award, Bronze; and Tai Kwon Do Black Belts.

Seven students will now move on to attend mainstream sixth forms and colleges, while the other six students from this cohort will continue their education at Venturers’ Academy Post-16 provision.

Executive Head Steve Hobden, who oversees the three sites, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our students, many of whom have far exceeded the expectations they had when they first joined Venturers’ Academy. Through their own hard work and the unwavering support of their families and teachers, these students have overcome challenges that could potentially have limited their chances in life, but instead, the world is their oyster. In this special school environment we’re able to develop the unique talents of every student as well as providing them with invaluable life skills that help them to thrive in the outside world.

“To have gained the knowledge, skills and ability to transition from a special school into a mainstream school is truly something to celebrate. For those students who will remain with us at Venturers’ Academy, they will be learning a range of new skills to ensure that they can achieve their ambitions once they complete their educational journey. These really are inspirational students who show us all that when we remove glass ceilings and find a little courage, everything is possible.”