A very special school

The New Elizabethan School in north Worcestershire is a shining example of what can be achieved for children with learning difficulties in a special school. To find out more I attended the School's St George's fete and open day.

The school employs the latest learning techniques to help children with dyslexia, aspergers, dyspraxia and other communication difficulties. The secret of the school's success is clear when you meet the principal, barrister, Annabel Goodman. She rescued the school from closure three years ago; after the previous head absconded with the fees.

Annabel’s ambition for children with learning difficulties is inspiring. The difficulties, potentially crippling unless diagnosed early and given specialist teaching, are often hugely improved and in some cases completely overcome. And the School's small classes and specially trained staff give children the best possible chance. Very few mainstream schools could possibly attain the same results; which is why it is such a scandal that so many special schools have been forced to close by this government.

Of course there are benefits that mainstream schools can offer children with learning disabilities. My own school had an excellent record of helping children with dyslexia long before most parents had heard of the term. But forcing children into mainstream schools in the name of equality is quite wrong. What is needed is a tailored approach to meeting each child's specific needs and that can often be best achieved by schools like the New Elizabethan.

The borough of Dudley has just funded a child to attend the school for the first time. I am delighted that such excellent provision exists just twenty minutes outside Stourbridge.

Photo: Margot with Principal of The New Elizabethan School, Annabel Goodman.