Learning Development Centre

Learning for Success

We want our students to discover and make the most of their talents.

The LDC offers students and their parents/carers the time and space to refocus on the academy and the expectations it demands.

Students at all times are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that arise from poor choices.

What Happens in the LDC

• Each student is allocated a key worker and mentor who work with them closely on a daily basis.
• Progress in individual lessons, along with effort and behaviour, is monitored closely and 'scored' on a daily sheet - students are encouraged to pass the day by scoring 60% or more each day. Rewards or sanctions follow.
• Students can access 'Changing behaviour for the best' sessions. Group sessions are let by LDC staff, issues covered can include: Anger management, self-esteem, drug/alcohol abuse, healthy eating, exercise, motivation, coping with stress, social skills.
• Clear structure and rules are reinforced.
• Alternative provisions in the afternoons tend to be more vocational and social and include gardening projects, work experiences, visits to other organisations, or team games to encourage positive social skills.
• Parents visit the LDC on a regular basis.
• Every student is encouraged to raise the standards of the work they produce.
• After sufficient progress has been made, students are re-introduced back into main academy lessons.
• Links with the SEN Department are developed, should students require more support in class.
• Communication with Head of Year, Head of Departments and subject teachers is maintained to enable positive reintegration back into main academy life.
• The LDC has regular contact with parent/carers. Weekly reports are sent home, and telephone calls and meetings build on these important relationships.

Alternative Provisions

Here are some of the alternative provisions we can offer our students:

• OAP home - weekly visits & Bingo organised by students.
• Milestones Special School Environmental Projects.
• White City Bike Project.
• Brockworth Youth Club social skills groups.
• Brockworth Community Gardening Project.

The LDC has a multi agency approach to supporting our students and regularly calls upon the expertise of the following organisations:

• Pupil Referral Services
• Parentline Plus
• Connexions
• Teens in Crisis
• Social Services
• Community Police
• Astra (Alternative Solutions to Running Away)
• YCP (Youth Crime Prevention)
• YOS (Youth Offending)

The purpose of the LDC is to 'include' students - not to 'exclude'. Our aim is to give students opportunities to be successful and the skills needed to build on that success - in school and the wider community.

How to contact the LDC

Learning Development Centre (LDC)
Millbrook Academy
Mill Lane
Brockworth
Gloucester
GL3 4QF
(01452) 865029