Students at Fairfield Farm College in Wiltshire celebrated their graduation on Friday 10 July at a socially distanced ceremony, that was also live streamed to family and friends.
Since March 2020, Fairfield Farm College, a specialist college for students with learning disabilities, has been operating in a very different way. Delivering education in ‘bubble groups’, and with social distancing and plenty of hand sanitiser, the team there has adapted to a new normal, with students adjusting well to the changes. Unfortunately, the schedule of summer events, which normally includes the Reunion BBQ, Summer Country Fayre, whole college trip and Summer Ball have been cancelled, but staff knew they needed to ensure graduation took place.
12 students attended the ceremony, each accompanied by one family member. Students and guests were treated to an inspirational presentation from wheelchair tennis 2 x Paralympian, Louise Hunt, before collecting their certificates and framed photos of them enjoying their time at the college. Those that were not able to attend were able to watch a live stream of the event, with students across the college watching in classrooms so they could clap and cheer for their peers.
While students were due to finish for the summer on 10 July, the term has been extended to compensate for some of their lost learning due to COVID-19. Although the college is closed in the holidays, Fairfield Farm Shop and Post Office has remained open throughout the past few months, being a key facility for those within Dilton Marsh. The Café, animal walk and play area have all recently re-opened, so people can, once again, enjoy a visit.