Making a splash: the delegation of educationalists from South Korea was shown Rutherford School’s pioneering education methods
A special school in South Croydon had a visit from a delegation from South Korea’s Ministry of Education, the Korea National University of Education and city education officers last week to find out more about its inclusive and progressive provision.
The Rutherford School was one of only two educational establishments being visited on the delegation’s British tour, selected for its unique educational setting for young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
Providing education to students who are unable to explore mainstream opportunities due to their physical and medical needs, Rutherford School’s pioneering curriculum combines education, therapy and nursing, ensuring that pupils can be in a school setting more regularly, pushing against the limits of their disabilities.
The Korea National University of Education, South Korea’s premier institution for teacher education and research, plays a pivotal role in shaping policy. The purpose of the visit by the delegation was to explore effective facilities and environmental improvement strategies.
Dr Diane Elleman, Rutherford’s head, said: “Rutherford School occupies a highly specialised but vital place in the education market. There are very few meaningful educational and care options for young adults with PMLD. We’re leading special education from the front.
International delegation: the educationalists from South Korea together with staff from Rutherford School
“We take a holistic view as it’s not just what happens in the classroom, but the environment in which it is delivered. It is both a joy and honour to share what we do at Rutherford School with an international delegation”.
The visitors were treated to a tour of the school and saw how visual, verbal and touch cues were used by student Sai guided by Visual Impairment and Sensory Specialist, Sarah Hanmer, in Rutherford’s multi-sensory room.
The delegates also experienced sensory-based lessons, the use of technology to communicate and therapy sessions including music therapy, aqua therapy and rebound therapy.
Lindi Paterson, Rutherford School’s teaching and learning lead: “Rutherford School inspires truly differentiated learning, nurturing every student to grow, connect and flourish. Here, they find a place where they truly belong — a space where they can thrive and be their best selves. It’s really rewarding that our work is being recognised in this way.”
Rutherford School is in the middle of building works to transform the learning experience, to provide an extra classroom, a modernised hydrotherapy pool and accessible meeting space for the school and local community.
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