At Petty Pool we combine classwork with lots of fun on and off-site activities

Residentials

All Petty Pool students are given the opportunity to get involved in residential trips to further develop core skills in a range of different environments. We organise residentials which include trips to London by train, visits to Ribby Hall Village, Haven Holidays camps and our annual Turkey and Tinsel event in Lytham.

We also provide on-site ‘baseline’ residentials for all students at the beginning of the year. This enables us to establish baseline skills and capabilities, such as making the bed, packing, on-site safety awareness etc, which we then use to develop targets for the coming year.

Day trips

Students participate in a range of fun and accessible day trips throughout the year to further develop their independent living skills outside of the college environment. From shopping trips to the local supermarket and pantomimes at Warrington and Vale Royal College, to Christmas carol singing – each provides ample opportunity to practice the core social and independent living skills they need to take them forward into adulthood.

On-site events

At Petty Pool, we’re lucky enough to be surrounded by acres of gorgeous Cheshire countryside, as well as our state of the art Outdoor Centre. Throughout the year, students enjoy many outdoor pursuits, including bushcraft, zip wire and archery – enabling them to enjoy the great outdoors in a safe, nurturing environment.

Special events include an annual ice rink installed in the grounds during the Christmas term, and our annual Halloween party. We’ve even hosted a Summer music festival in our grounds, at the request of our students – something we plan to repeat in coming years.

Learner Voice

We recognise and value the importance of the voice of the student. To facilitate this, we create opportunities for young people to play meaningful roles at an operational level, thereby making young people an integral part of decisions and governance arrangements.

Learner rights and autonomy are actively championed at Petty Pool. At the heart of this is our student council, which consists of two reps from each class who are elected by their peers. 

A focus on developing a strong learner voice through the student council and monthly learner forums are key in preparing learners for life after college. 

 

Student prom

Without a doubt, the highlight of our social calendar at Petty Pool is the annual student prom. This special event is held in July to recognise the achievements of students who are leaving the college, but is open to all students and parents / carers who wants to attend. It’s a great opportunity to get dressed up, jump in a limo, dance all night, and most importantly, celebrate our leavers’ many achievements. The night includes a presentation to each Petty Pool graduate – and a moment to shine a spotlight on the stars of the show – our students.