Type of service: Further & Higher Education, Respite and short breaks

Glasshouse College is one of three independent specialist further education colleges operated by Ruskin Mill Trust. Founded in September 2000, the college provides practical skills and therapeutic education for young people aged 16 to 25 with complex learning and behavioural difficulties, many of who have autism spectrum conditions. The college is based in a former crystal glassworks in Stourbridge, West Midlands which provides glass-making and glass-cutting, a range of craft workshops, a newly refurbished commercial glass centre, coffee shop, studio theatre and a narrow boat on the Stourbridge canal. Vale Head Farm offers horticulture, animal husbandry, woodland management, felting and catering in a 36-acre rural setting, whilst the Greenwich Woodland creates opportunities for green woodworking, forging, clay and pottery workshops, bow making and archery. The individualised learning programme provides a range of accredited courses with integrated daytime and residential provision over 38 to 52 weeks. Glasshouse College facilitates a wide range of work experience and vocational opportunities within our own and other local businesses in order to increase self-esteem and develop functional skills, team-building, work competence, employability and independent living. The college promotes healthy lifestyles and sports activities and provides medical and therapeutic support. Throughout the year, the college celebrates festivals, cultural opportunities and a full arts programme. The student council engages in all aspects of college life and each student will be involved in their individual transition planning.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability