Continuing education during eating disorder treatment
James Brindley School at Schoen Clinic Newbridge is dedicated to providing education and support for young people between the ages of 8 and 18 who are undergoing specialised treatment for eating disorders.
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Our mission is to ensure that every young patient continues their educational journey while receiving the highest quality care.
Our commitment to education
At James Brindley, we are committed to offering a quality learning experience that empowers our young patients to stay 'on track' with their studies during their inpatient or residential stay at Schoen Clinic Newbridge in Birmingham. We understand that maintaining education is not just about academics; it's about nurturing the holistic development of our students.
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Our school team strives to create a safe, purposeful, and productive learning environment within the hospital setting. Here, young people can access specialist subject support and a tailored curriculum that meets their unique needs. We work in close collaboration with the clinical staff to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our students.
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James Brindley School is a fully integrated part of the multidisciplinary team at Schoen Clinic Newbridge. We maintain open lines of communication with clinical staff to ensure that educational and therapeutic needs are seamlessly balanced. Regular progress reports are shared during Care Plan Approach (CPA) meetings, and we provide ongoing feedback to parents and home schools.
Uninterrupted studies, seamlessly integrated into eating disorder recovery
Our school operates within purpose-built classrooms located within the main residential hospital. Young people can access school alongside their therapeutic timetable, ensuring that their educational needs are considered alongside their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
We collaborate closely with each student's home school to maintain consistency and ensure they can 'keep up' with their peers. Our trained subject specialist teachers plan and deliver content appropriate for each key stage, ensuring that students receive the education they deserve.
Empowering young people to reach their full potential
At James Brindley School, we take immense pride in the academic achievements of our young patients. Despite the challenges they may face during their treatment for eating disorders, many of our students excel academically and achieve excellent GCSE grades.
Our dedicated teachers and support staff work tirelessly to provide a nurturing and empowering environment that fosters learning and growth. Through personalised education plans and close collaboration with each student's home school, we have witnessed our students not only maintaining their educational progress but often surpassing expectations.
We believe that these accomplishments are a testament to the resilience and determination of our young patients, as well as the unwavering support they receive from our school community. Education at James Brindley School is not just about maintaining the status quo; it's about empowering our students to reach their full potential.
The importance of continued education during eating disorder treatment
For young people grappling with eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia or OSFED, continuing their education can play a vital role in their recovery journey.
Here's why:
Structure & routine
Education provides structure and routine, which can be especially beneficial during challenging times. It helps students regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Social interaction
School offers opportunities for social interaction with peers, reducing isolation and nurturing a sense of belonging.
Sense of achievement
Academic accomplishments can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of achievement, which is crucial in the recovery process.
Future goals
Education opens doors to future opportunities and career aspirations. It reminds young patients of their potential beyond their current challenges.
Information for parents
We understand that parents may have concerns about their child's education during treatment. Rest assured, our team is here to provide guidance and support, ensuring that your child receives the education they need while focusing on their recovery.
As parents, you can take comfort in knowing that your child's education is in capable hands. We are committed to helping them achieve not only their academic goals but also their dreams and aspirations beyond their time at Schoen Clinic Newbridge.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our school, please don't hesitate to contact our team at Schoen Clinic Newbridge. Your child's education and wellbeing are our top priorities.
The results speak for themselves
Here's what our patients say
Celebrating achievements
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Two pieces of artwork submitted by patients/students at Schoen Clinic Newbridge/James Brindley, titled 'Morphed Collection' and 'Growth,' were voted as runners-up in an art competition for their exceptional portrayal of the theme 'coming through a mental health crisis.'
These pieces were displayed at the Royal College of Psychiatrists Quality Network for Inpatient CAMHS (QNIC) Annual Forum, where delegates voted on their favourites, resulting in a very close competition among all entrants.
Congratulations to our talented young patients for their impressive achievements!
Meet our dedicated school team
Nicola Winslow
Centre Leader - Teacher
Jane Jephson
MFL Teacher
Sarah Young
Maths Teacher
Michelle Brookes
English Teacher
Sarah Mitchell
Humanities Teacher
Anne Sayles
School Administrator
Dave Close
Science Teacher
Genna Parker-Harman
Art Teacher