Three Ways School: A Hidden Gem

13 October 2018

Three Ways School is Bath’s academy for children with special educational needs...

Situated in Odd Down, the school is home to over 200 pupils, from the age of four to nineteen.

Wera Hobhouse, MP for Bath, was shown round the school, and the cafe that the school runs that serves the local community.

Wera said: “I was amazed by the facilities that the school has, the building is like a Tardis! Based on the lessons that I sat in on, the staff are so creative. It takes real talent and dedication to bring subjects alive for children, all of whom have very different needs.”

The school is a specialist in physical and sensory learning, and at its heart lies the Sensory Studio. It’s a sphere that protrudes from the side of the building, with internal projectors and speakers that can turn the space in to any environment imaginable.

It can be used to simulate boarding an aircraft and taking off for example, invaluable for preparing kids for situations that they are likely to come across in the real world.

The school is currently fundraising to refurbish the Sensory Studio. They need to install new projectors, and hope to construct a moving floor which can be used for sound resonance, physiotherapy and immersive learning.

Much of the school’s focus lies on preparing its pupils for their graduation and transition to adult life. This was the focus behind opening their café to the public. The café runs thirty work placements a year, so students can develop the skills to get jobs in the hospitality industry around the city.

Wera said: “I know the school are always on the lookout for local businesses and organisations who can give students work placements. If you’re reading this, and have a place, or know someone who might, e-mail [email protected], and I’ll put you in touch with the school. Equally, get in touch if you'd like to help with funding improvements to the Sensory Studio!”