At Hillside, we provide a nurturing and individualised learning environment where young people are supported to re-engage with education, develop confidence and experience success.
Our curriculum is flexible and responsive to individual strengths, interests and aspirations. Learners access Broad General Education and progress through the Senior Phase, where they can complete qualifications at QS National levels 2, 3, 4, 5 and Higher, alongside wider achievement and NPA courses. We recognise that many young people may have experienced disruption or barriers to learning. Our staff create safe, supportive and engaging learning environments where young people can build confidence, develop positive relationships and experience success at their own pace.
Young people access a broad range of academic, creative, practical and vocational learning opportunities, including literacy and numeracy, sciences, social subjects, expressive arts, digital learning, physical education and outdoor learning.
Teaching approaches are adapted to meet individual learning profiles, communication styles and sensory needs.
Our learning environments are calm, engaging and well-resourced, helping young people feel supported, motivated and ready to learn. Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and good-quality ICT resources are available throughout the school. Age-appropriate internet access is available in all areas.
Class and activity groups have between 2 and 5 young people. Young people have access to a full school week, including timetabled lessons, one activity afternoon per week, and several individualised sessions and activities.
The school is equipped with a fitness suite, sports hall and multimedia suite. Our young people produce several films each year.
Our education team works with young people and others to arrange regular curricular trips to Bannockburn, Edinburgh, Stirling, Glasgow and beyond. These outings support many areas of the curriculum, such as History, Geography and Employability Skills.
Supporting positive destinations is an important part of our work. Through our Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) programme, young people access careers education, college links, vocational learning and meaningful work placement opportunities. Skills Development Scotland works closely with the school to provide individual guidance and support for future pathways into further education, training and employment.
We use a range of assessments, including Boxall profiling and literacy and numeracy screening, to help us understand each young person’s strengths and support needs. This allows staff to provide personalised support and track progress over time.
