“MacIntyre School and Children's Homes is a place that embraces his needs and abilities, rather than telling him what he can’t do.”
*Ben started at MacIntyre School a few years ago and since then he has grown in confidence, learning to develop positive relationships with both staff and students.
This is Ben’s story.
When Ben was first introduced to MacIntyre School he found it difficult to convey how he felt. When confronted with an activity he didn’t like, he would express frustration by causing damage to his surroundings.
Ben also found going outside challenging. Despite showing excitement about a trip, Ben's anxiety would creep in, leaving him feeling unable to go.
Speaking about Ben's experience, the team at MacIntyre School said:
“When we first met Ben, we needed to gain his trust. We had to teach him that if he wanted to leave the classroom and go out to the ball pool, he could simply ask and he knew that our response would be yes.
We slowly but surely introduced activities. Towards the end of term, he would come in sit straight at his work station, ready to take part in lessons.”
By allowing Ben to make his own choices and explore the topics that interested him staff found he naturally wanted to learn. They noticed that he began to sit down in the classroom by his own accord. With the help of his teachers, Ben began to realise that the classroom could be a fun space.
Staff found that the key to helping Ben to move forward was to build positive relationships with him. Once he showed trust towards staff, it became easier to help him to understand his emotions.
They spent time with Ben to help him to rationalise and control his feelings. When he would feel overwhelmed, Ben learnt to remove himself from the situation instead of taking his feelings out on others or his surroundings.
This change in Ben has resulted in stronger relationships with his family.
Ben's mum said:
“Our relationships at home are much better now. He is able to express himself and he is much more relaxed.”
The staff at MacIntyre School and Children's Homes also worked to adapt activities to suit Ben’s needs. Aware that outdoor activities caused Ben anxiety, staff learned to inform Ben of trips in advance to help him to prepare.
This understanding was vital to Ben’s happiness and as a result, Ben will now suggest outings.
Now, the future is looking bright for Ben. Not only is Ben able to communicate better and have a positive outlook on life, but he has also developed strong relationships with staff, his family and is popular with the other students.
*Names have been changed
Join the team!
Are you looking for a new opportunity and the chance to make a difference?
If you are warm, willing to learn, and resilient, why not join our team as a Support Worker at MacIntyre School and Children’s Homes in Wingrave? As a Support Worker at our children's home, you will be working with children who have autism and severe learning disabilities.
As part of a close-knit team, you'll support children and young people aged 11 to 19, supporting them with their daily lives and encouraging them to take part in community activities and hobbies.
We have full and part-time work available (minimum 22.5 hours per week), and you'll be working shifts on a rota including days, evenings and weekends.
To find out more, visit our Current Vacancies.
