Helping you to engage with the world

Our multi-sensory programme is exciting and innovative. It suits young people with vision, hearing and cognitive needs.

Supporting learners to develop self-confidence, communication skills, and meaningful connections

Kat smiling in session with student Poppy

A highly personalised learning programme designed to help students with significant support needs discover their identities and confidently assert their place in the world.

Learning Environment

Structured and consistent learning environments support autistic students, including those who may need specific sensory processing support.

Our multi-sensory programme is exciting and innovative. It suits young people with vision, hearing and cognitive needs.

Equipping students with lifelong skills

Our aim is to support students to:

  • work with others

  • manage their own emotions

  • become more mobile

  • maintain their health and wellbeing

  • make their own choices and decisions.

Learning activities

Learning activities are personal to each student and may include:

  • Art
  • Ceramics
  • Cooking
  • Dance
  • Drama
  • Gardening
  • Music
  • Sensory stories
  • Sport

When asked if he liked being in college he smiled. He was then able to use his communication book to choose ‘I like’

How will learning be assessed?

Students typically work towards qualifications that align with their future goals. Evidence of learning is continuously gathered to support the achievement of individual learning and to track progress. Common qualifications include entry level accreditation in Personal Progress, Communication Skills or ICT skills.

Amy and student Nuala smiling in session

Discover more

For more information about the Engaging with the World learning programme, please contact our Admissions team at [email protected] or on 01242 534928 / 01242 527631.

Read our student journeys

  • Max walking with therapy team

    Max’s story

    Inspiring student Max is thriving at National Star, developing communication, independence and confidence. With tailored therapies and his new Grillo walker, he’s engaging, smiling and achieving more every...

  • Gurpreet’s story

    Meet Gurpreet, a vibrant and energetic young woman currently on the Engaging with the World pathway. With a warm presence and growing awareness of her environment, Gurpreet approaches...

  • Poppy smiling with keyworker

    Poppy’s story

    Meet Poppy, a third-year student who is developing self-confidence, communication skills, and learning how to make meaningful connections with others while on National Star’s Engaging with the World...

  • Meet student Amy

    Amy is a second year student on the Engaging with the World pathway at National Star. She has Charge Syndrome and is Deafblind. Read about her story.

Apply for a place today

Last reviewed on 09/02/2026