- Staff going the extra mile for residential students at Penarth School
- Companion dog Dexter helping to calm students during coronavirus crisis
Staff at Headlands School have been pulling out the stops to ensure the students who live at the school are safe, happy and occupied during the Coronavirus crisis.
The Penarth school has 12 young people who are currently living between 4 of our residential homes while the school closes to all others bar children of key workers.
Vice Principal for Care at Headlands, Maxine Cahill, said: ‘During these difficult and isolating times we are doing our best to keep spirits and strength up among our young people and staff. Strictly adhering to government advice on social distancing and hygiene we are doing a huge range of activities to ensure healthy bodies and minds including Trampolining, painting, baking cakes and starting the day with an exercise class with Joe Wicks.
‘Our gorgeous companion dog Dexter is also playing a crucial role in helping calm and soothe the students as the houses take their turn to walk him around our grounds. It is critical we maintain a routine and stimulate the students through this challenging period. The staff have responded with characteristic passion and dedication to provide a safe and happy home for our young people.’
Alan (17), a resident student, said: ‘The news has been very frightening, but I have felt very safe at the school. The staff have really looked after us and we’re having a lot of fun doing loads of games and exercise. We all love Dexter and he’s getting a lot of walks and attention at the moment! It can be stressful but while I hope this ends very soon, it’s good to know I’m being so well looked after here.’
Headlands School is an independent special school that offers day and residential placements for boys and girls aged 7 to 19 who have difficulty learning as a result of early trauma, complex emotional and social issues, Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Asperger’s Syndrome
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