02/02/2012 

For 2012 we have nominated the West of England School and College, the leading regional centre for young people with little or no sight, based in Exeter. They provide education, health, care, therapy and mobility to ensure that learners receive the highest quality services including: 

A school and college for children aged from 4-24 years of age 

Outreach and advisory services for visual impairment 

Training in visual impairment and special needs 

Training for learning disabilities and sensory impairment 

Workforce development and research 

 

Many young people attending the West of England School and College have severe and complex needs as well as visual impairment. The aim is to develop their independence so that they can grow academically and socially, whatever their ability. Each learner is given a personalised curriculum designed to meet their individual learning and care needs. 

 

Our other charity is Steps based in Torquay and UK registered. It aims to make every day a play day for children and young people who cannot play independently. Mainstream toys are adapted so that with a special external switch, individuals can play with the toys by switching them on, by blowing, sucking, bashing, squeezing or pressing the switch…whatever movement remains to the individual. 

 

Steps experienced staff try hard to match the individual with an external switch maximising their available movement. Steps are delighted to have just celebrated 20 years of its adapted developmental toy and switch lending library service. 

The proceeds of our annual golf day July 20th at Dainton Park near Newton Abbot will be the main fund raiser, as well as a function towards the end of the year.