Beaucroft College opens its doors 

Beaucroft College, recently marked its official opening, offering new opportunities for young adults aged 16 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).  

The college goes beyond the traditional curriculum, emphasising preparation for adulthood and practical life skills. 

During the opening, the ribbon was cut by Peter, a former Beaucroft student, one of the first from the college to go on to complete an undergraduate and master's degree. 

The event included tours of the college, supported by staff and students. 

On the tour, visitors saw Beaucroft College’s student-run cafe is not your typical coffee stop. Operating on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, Cafe 1HQ serves up more than just lattes and home-baked cakes.  

Here, students learn the art of customer service, develop people skills, and gain experience operating the till. They also actively participate in food preparation, learning essential cooking skills. 

The cafe serves fresh produce from the college’s community garden. Local volunteers manage the garden, and students are timetabled to assist with planting and harvesting.  

Beyond gardening skills, students receive valuable lessons about nutrition and the origins of our food. 

Beaucroft College also runs a bike repair project. Members of the public can bring their bikes for a full service, while students learn about bike maintenance.  

This initiative not only provides practical skills but also promotes community engagement. 

In addition to employable skills, Beaucroft College offers a fully functioning “flat” where students learn essential life skills. Laundry, washing-up, and other key tasks prepare them for future independence. 

Amanda Davis, Corporate Director for Education and Learning, said “It was incredibly moving to be shown around the campus and witness the students’ involvement during the tours.  

“I am well aware of the huge amount of work that has gone into making this wonderful college a reality, and I’d like to say a huge thank you to all who are involved.” 

Joe Barnett, Co-headteacher, said “We are so proud of our wonderful Beaucroft College. Its location facilitates so many vocational opportunities for our students to thrive and play a meaningful part in the community.” 

“The grand opening was a showcase for our College and our amazing students and we were delighted to take the opportunity to thank Dorset Council and many others for their continued support.” 

The former Wimborne First School has been renovated to perfectly meet the needs of the students, with quiet break-out rooms and high ceilings, whilst still retaining some of the original features of the former school.  

 Alongside the classrooms, there are sensory spaces and break-out quiet spaces, everything has been designed with the student's best interests in mind. 

Currently, approximately 60 students attend Beaucroft College, with ambitions to eventually accommodate 80.  

You can read more about the college at: Beaucroft Foundation School – Specialists in Education