Student Stories
Our students come from varied backgrounds, but most of them have struggled to cope with mainstream education. Once at LVS Oxford they are supported by excellent pastoral care.
We encourage independence, well-being and healthy lifestyles with pupils learning life skills in and outside of the classroom in a safe and secure environment.
Below are some of their stories.
Alice
“My mum and dad think this school is a miracle. Before I came here I was hardly learning anything, and now I am learning something new every day,” says Alice, who joined LVS Oxford in Year 7 and currently is in Year 8.
Alice recalls her mum’s reassuring words, as she got ready to start her new school: “It’s okay to be autistic here”.
“The school helps people like me grow and learn. There is a nice and calm environment… and I feel that I’m doing so much better than when I first arrived. The teachers are really good too, because they get to know you and notice when you’re struggling and are there to help you.”
Taylor
Slower lessons that go at a student’s pace with small class sizes and lots of support have been transformational for Taylor Swatton, who is achieving great results in English, maths and science since joining LVS Oxford in Year 7. Now aged 14 and in Year 10, she’s enjoying learning and feels confident of achieving her goals in life.
“I’ve made a lot of progress since I joined LVS Oxford,” says Taylor. “Everyone is understanding and it’s a very calm environment. I’m so happy to be here.
“My reports have been amazing since I came here and I feel like I’m getting a good education and I will be able to achieve what I want to do.”
Daniel
Head Boy and editor of the school’s newsletter, Daniel has excelled within the caring and calm environment of LVS Oxford. From looking forward to going to school each day, to being excited as he prepares to transition into a mainstream college, Daniel is a confident and able young man.
“I’d never felt excited about going to school before, whereas once I came here, I would be up every morning and ready to go…. The teachers understand you and the students all understand each other.”
When’s he’s not working hard for his GCSEs, Daniel is involved with the drama club and is even writing a play, which he hopes will be chosen for the end of year performance.
Jake
From attending school for two hours a day to becoming a full-time, enthusiastic student with a love for his lessons, Jake’s life – and that of his family – has been transformed since arriving at LVS Oxford, halfway through Year 8.
“I’m enjoying maths now, whereas I found it a struggle in mainstream school. There just wasn’t the help. Geography is great too – it’s taught by Joe, who makes it all so interesting. We’re looking at maps right now and I’d like to do my Duke of Edinburgh Award.”
He continues: “The teachers here are all understanding of autism. No one is seen as being different – or you could say, everyone is the same by being different!”