WHEN Dawlish mayor, Cllr Val Mawhood paid a visit to Orchard Manor School to see their revamped woodland school she was keeping a promise she made when she opened their summer fete in July.
She said: ‘I was so impressed with the happy atmosphere there, both amongst the staff and indeed everyone present. The headteacher, Paul Donkersloot, was obviously pleased to see so many visitors, such as myself, and explained that they wanted to become more involved in the community here in Dawlish. It was a wonderful introduction to what is in fact a very special place.
‘I accepted an invitation to visit officially and to meet with members of staff and pupils, and to learn more about the school, its ethics and its pupils, and it soon became apparent that this is a Special School in every way.’
The school lost its woodland facility in a suspected arson attack in 2020. Following grants and donations the school has been able to rebuild the woodland area, incorporating tree houses and a schoolroom teaching space. And the improvements don’t stop there. A spokesperson said: ‘We are keen to promote what we do within the local community. For example, we are currently constructing a new sports hall which will be completed in 2022.’
Mayor Mawhood enthused: ‘It’s a truly inspirational place. There to educate young people with special needs, from pre-school age to post 16 years and to prepare them for either further education, employment, independence and over all to have a fulfilling future. A place to enable pupils to achieve their full potential regardless of the difficulties they may encounter in their lives.
‘The staff are obviously an excellent team with a wide range of skills, all of which are vital in order to achieve the best outcome for the young people in their care. The facilities on offer are excellent, both those indoors such as the residential accommodation, and vocational and academic units. Also outdoors, including the wonderful natural environment of the surrounding grounds which provide a fascinating Forest School , together with horticultural areas and sports pitches.’
On her rounds in the woodland area, after climbing into a treehouse Val, inset, was handed a sticky treat… ‘I enjoyed the toasted marshmallow sandwiched between two biscuits – which they anticipated would squish all over my clothes!
‘Orchard Manor provides a truly all-round experience for the pupils plus support for their families and I wish them further future success as they expand the vocational facilities and pupil numbers.’