Curious about a school with a unique history? You are standing before Oak Lodge School. It is a specialist school in Wandsworth for students with specific needs.
Oak Lodge School caters to pupils aged 10 to 19. The school supports students with hearing speech language and communication needs. Many pupils have additional needs. These include ASD motor difficulties and visual impairment. Some have emotional and behavioral difficulties.
This school uses a student-centered approach. This approach fosters language development. It employs British Sign Language. It uses Sign Supported English. Spoken and written English are also used. Visual and kinaesthetic learning strategies are incorporated.
Let’s step back in time. Oak Lodge School’s story began in 1905. It was established as a school for deaf children. It was located in Nightingale Lane Clapham. The school has a rich history. During the Second World War Oak Lodge School was evacuated. It relocated to Handborough in Oxfordshire.
Interestingly Oak Lodge School was once next door to a Jewish school. This made it almost unique. The Dressmaking Department was quite skilled. They made a Coronation dress for King George. They also made one for Mrs. Lloyd George.
Miss Lucy the headmistress was known for the excellence of her folk dances. Before her Miss A.M. Hopson led the school. She was a Yorkshire Deaf Teacher. From its beginning in 1905 to the war in 1939-45 over 1000 girls attended Oak Lodge School.
Oak Lodge School also provides other services. These include Life Long Learning. This is for the education of deaf adults. A Sixth Form provides support to deaf students. These students are educated at nearby colleges and on-site.
Oak Lodge is a regional school. It is maintained by Special Education Needs. It is located in the London Borough of Wandsworth. Today Oak Lodge School is thriving. It welcomes pupils from many different local authorities. To date there are 32. The school offers weekly residential facilities. Ofsted has praised these facilities.
Ofsted rated Oak Lodge School as ‘Good’. It was an ‘exceptional school’ according to one report. The report stated that teaching and care of pupils are outstanding.
Oak Lodge School continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the changing needs of its students. It remains a vital resource. It supports students with hearing speech language and communication needs. The school ensures the development of each student’s full potential. It provides an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
So as you continue your journey remember Oak Lodge School. It is a place where communication barriers are broken down. Every student is empowered to succeed.