Downs View Special School

Welcome to Downs View School and Link College

 
This website will give you key information about Downs View and also help you to understand how we will support your child during their time at school and college. 

Downs View School, which has students age 4 – 16, is in Woodingdean. Downs View Link College is next to Varndean College and is for learners aged 16 – 19. We also have a separate provision for learners aged 19 – 25 at Downs View Life Skills College in Patcham. 

We meet the learning needs for pupils with profound and multiple, severe and moderate learning difficulties. Many of our pupils have autism and communication difficulties. We meet needs through an outstanding curriculum that places individual needs at its centre. We value the importance of developing social emotional needs and life skills alongside developing academic knowledge and skills. 

All pupils have individualised learning goals that are met through a varied range of learning activities and opportunities. We focus on the key skills needed to allow all of our pupils to have fulfilling lives and live as independently as they are able to. Through working collaboratively with parents and a range of professionals we aim to support the whole child. 

Our vision at Downs View centres around Respect, Aspiration and Resilience. At Downs View, we’ve created an aspirational learning environment with dignity and respect at its core, where everyone reaches their potential through effective communication, building resilience and having fun. 

We are really proud of the provision we offer at Downs View so please come and see it in action. We would encourage you to visit the school or college if you are interested in your child attending or you are considering working here. This will give you a chance to see the learning in action and meet our staff and pupils. 

I look forward to welcoming you to Downs View soon. 

Vanessa