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Derwen College
Derwen College – Specialist Further Education for Young People with SEND
Derwen College is a specialist further education college for young people aged 16–25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It offers both day and residential placements, with a strong focus on independence, vocational learning, life skills, and personal development.
Who Derwen College Supports
Derwen welcomes students with a wide range of needs, including:
Moderate, Severe, Complex or Profound & Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD)
Physical disabilities
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Behaviours of concern
All students must have an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP).
What Derwen College Offers
Component | Details |
Campuses | Main residential campus in Gobowen (Shropshire), with day campuses in Ludlow, Telford, and Walford |
Pathways & Vocational Learning | Courses in Retail & Enterprise, Hospitality & Food, Performing Arts, Horticulture, and Work & Independence Skills |
Independence & Life Skills | Focus on everyday living: cooking, cleaning, laundry, planning, travel training |
Authentic Work Placements | Experience gained through college-run outlets like cafés, shops, and gardens |
Personalised Programmes | Bespoke timetables based on individual needs, including pre-entry level programmes like Learning for Life |
Residential Options | Available at the Gobowen campus for students who require on-site accommodation |
Wellbeing & Enrichment | Social clubs, sports, leisure activities, mental health support, and friendship-building opportunities |
Admissions & How It Works
Students must be aged 16–25 with an EHCP
Applications are managed by Derwen’s Admissions Team
Families are encouraged to visit, attend open days, and explore the prospectus to find the best-fit pathway and campus
Derwen College is approved under Section 41 of the Children & Families Act, meaning it is listed as a recognised specialist provider
Quick Guide – Derwen College
Question | Answer |
What age students can apply? | 16–25 years old with an EHCP |
Residential or Day options? | Both; Gobowen offers residential, all sites offer day provision |
Types of SEND supported? | Learning, physical, autism, PMLD, behaviours of concern |
What you’ll learn? | Life skills, vocational training, independence, social & wellbeing skills |
Where are the campuses? | Gobowen (main), Ludlow, Telford, Walford |
How to apply? | Contact Admissions, attend open days, explore pathways with your child |
Contact Information
Phone: 01691 661234
Email: enquiries@derwen.ac.uk
Website: Derwen College