Queen Alexandra College (QAC)

QAC is a national, specialist residential College and community charity that supports a diverse range of student abilities and needs.

We welcome students who come to our College from all over the country - as well as many who are local to us.

The College has been at its current location since 1903 and offers an innovative, holistic approach to learning and support.

We offer support and guidance for students with visual impairment, autistic spectrum conditions, those with moderate to severe learning difficulties, students with physical and other disabilities.

As QAC has grown, we now have new educational and learning sites in addition to our main campus - Pinewood Campus (dedicated to employment progression) and Umberslade Campus (dedicated to horticulture and outdoor learning). Whichever location you may attend, you will receive the same high quality experience and specialist support from staff. Some students may experience a combination of all locations.

Class sizes are small and support levels high. Our curriculum is designed to maximise adult life opportunities, develop independence and work skills. We offer a wide range of programmes including Preparation for Life (PFL) delivered at Pre-Entry to Entry level and a range of vocational qualifications to level 3. Our Learning, Employment and Progression (LEAP) programme can be a stepping stone for students from PFL into a more work focused environment.

A supported internship study programme could also be followed which involves spending the majority of time with an employer in a real job role.

As well as offering an exciting Wheelchair Basketball Academy, in collaboration with University of Worcester, QAC also has a well-established and successful Powerchair Football Academy working in partnership with The Albion Foundation.

The College has a team of specialists on site who are able to support students, including Speech and Language Therapists, a VI Training Officer, Educational and Clinical Psychologists, Counsellors, Mentors, a Braille Tutor, Occupational Therapy and Sensory Support, a Dyslexia Tutor, BSL Interpreters, Rehabilitation and Travel Trainers and Healthcare Professionals including a Physiotherapist.

Enrichment programmes enhance the curriculum and help to develop self-esteem, confidence and independence. Our residential provision develops essential skills for personal development such as independent living and social skills. We also offer a specialist respite service and supported living options.

Facilities include new buildings with the latest technology, a fitness centre, state-of-the-art sports hall, sports field, sensory room, onsite travel training area and library.

Preparing students for their next steps away from College is essential. QAC uses an external party to offer truly impartial information, advice and guidance. We hold careers weeks, transition out events and our dedicated transitions team work with our curriculum department and families to support students moving on make positive plans based around their needs and aspirations.

As part of our 5-year strategy (2019-2024) QAC is developing a new range of services for young people with disabilities in the community. These will include support services to enable people to access community activities including a PA/support worker service, social and/or peer groups, leisure activities and the development of a QAC Youth Centre.