Join us online:

Create a PDF of this page

Ella

Small classes, one-to-one attention, a consistent approach and 24 hour care have helped residential student Ella make noticeable progress.

Ella, who is 13, has Sturge-Weber syndrome, a rare neurological and skin disorder. As a two-year-old, Ella underwent major brain surgery in an attempt to control her seizures and still needs round-the-clock care. Now, at St Piers, she is in a peer group with similar strengths and challenges. Small classes, a modern environment and regular updates are all vital elements for the family.

The team is fantastic at phoning us. Getting calls about the smallest of things really helps us to feel that we are still her mum and dad. We feel like we know what is going on, mum Rina says.

Ella’s behaviour can be very challenging but, through one-to-one attention and round-the-clock consistency, she has begun to make progress. The team has supported us every step of the way, even helping us to give Ella birthday parties so that she can celebrate with her friends just like any other child. When we visit at weekends, we can take Ella out, but if the weather is miserable we can still come as a family and just hang out in the house together – it’s a real home from home, says Rina.