About Independence
Welcome to Independence Year 11 & Post 16
The Independence iCollege is located at Richmond House, Bath Road, Newbury RG14 1QY and provides learners with a complete a curriculum. We are able to provide a balanced curriculum for the majority of learners in small groups and are also able to work with learners who require a more 1:1 support.
Meet the Pastoral staff
Angie Palmer
Lead Teacher
Marie Lacoste
Pastoral TA
Emma Dodridge
Inclusion Manager
On entry Pastoral staff will welcome students to Independence. After an initial interview and tour of the unit, students will be required to complete baseline assessments to allow for teaching at an appropriate level and also to help fill in any gaps in their learning. Our Inclusion Manager will also work with students to assess for any Exam support needs. Students will then be allocated a timetable either Bespoke or in one of 5 main groups.
How to apply
Year 11 Students have to be funded to attend iCollege and so mainstream schools will need to apply via Pupil Placement Panel (PPP) and appropriate funding agreed.
Post 16 Students should have an EHCP to apply using the Post 16 application form which can be downloaded from the website. Students with EHCPs would also need to apply for approval and go via the SEN panel for funding.
Getting to Independence
Year 11 Students more than 3 miles from Independence may be helped with transport in the form of a bus or train pass or a taxi if far from a main public route. Transported pupils will need to be ready for 8am or 1 hour prior to arrival time at Independence and drivers will only wait for 3 mins before leaving to avoid other students in the same vehicle being late for school. The West Berkshire Home to School transport policy and appeals information can be found on https://info.westberks.gov.uk
Post 16 EHCP Post 16 students may apply for transport if more than 3 miles away but currently contribute £804 a year to the scheme. More information can be found on the West Berkshire Council- School Transport website. https://info.westberks.gov.uk/post16sen