Waterloo Lodge is a small, independent school in Chorley, catering for autistic children aged between 11-18 who may have a range of additional needs.
At Waterloo Lodge, we provide a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment where autistic pupils are respected, valued and understood. Our trauma-informed approach is underpinned by our Ask, Accept, Develop (AAD) philosophy. This means we are curious about behaviour, seek to understand barriers to learning and work with pupils to develop the skills, confidence and strategies they need to succeed.
Many pupils arrive at Waterloo Lodge having experienced barriers to learning in previous educational settings. By providing a safe, nurturing and structured environment, we help pupils develop a sense of belonging, rebuild confidence and achieve positive outcomes.
Pupils are taught in small classes of up to seven, supported by a teacher and learning support assistant. This enables us to build strong relationships, understand pupils’ strengths and needs, and ensure learning is delivered at an appropriate level. We offer both formal and semi-formal curriculum pathways, ensuring learning is delivered at a level that reflects pupils’ developmental stage and learning needs.
Our education and therapy teams work closely together to provide a consistent and holistic approach. Our therapists work both with individual pupils and alongside classroom staff, helping to remove barriers to learning and maximise engagement, wellbeing and progress.
Alongside academic learning, we place great importance on developing social, emotional and independent living skills. Through enrichment activities, community visits, volunteering opportunities and practical learning experiences, pupils build confidence, resilience and the skills needed for life beyond school. Pupils have opportunities to explore future pathways through workplace visits, encounters with employers, independent careers guidance and links with local colleges, helping them make informed choices about their next steps.
Pupils are encouraged to contribute to the wider school community through opportunities such as the School Council and Eco-Council, enabling them to share their views, influence decision-making and make a positive contribution to school life.
We offer a range of specialist facilities, including a sensory room, immersive room and horticulture provision, where pupils can learn outdoors, grow plants and care for chickens. These experiences support wellbeing, responsibility, engagement and personal development.
Everything we do is centred around helping pupils feel safe, belong, achieve and prepare for successful futures.