Therapeutic Summer School Program for Boys with Emotional Challenges at Little Keswick School

THERAPEUTIC SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM

AN ENHANCED UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR CHILD

For 47 years boys have traveled to a small horse farm in central Virginia to experience the therapeutic educational environment of Little Keswick School. This summer, boys from around the nation will spend five weeks benefiting from in-depth observation, intervention and evaluation by experienced staff. Our structured milieu can help prepare boys with a particular set of needs for further group placement or more successful efforts at home.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL

The school has a rich history and a national reputation of excellence providing a sense of tradition and educational structure with a warm family feel. The pastoral setting in historic Albemarle County is just seven miles from Charlottesville and the University of Virginia and two hours south of Washington, DC. The school is fully accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF) and licensed by the Virginia Department of Education as a year round therapeutic boarding school and special education school serving 34 boys with complex social, emotional challenges and learning disabilities.

Young student reads while lying in canoe - individualized instruction for Aspergers

ENROLLMENT

Our therapeutic summer school program is a must for returning year-round students and the perfect starting point for those entering the program. Functional assessment, academic performance evaluations, and consultation with our clinical team are useful in determining the child’s next placement or whether he would be appropriately served in the Little Keswick year-round program. Boys may enroll for summer only, but admission priority is given to year-round candidates. Little Keswick enrolls 34 students each term, 9-15 years old at acceptance and served through 17, who have a history of learning, emotional, social or behavioral difficulties, and who have slightly below average to superior intelligence.

OUR MISSION . . .

Little Keswick School’s philosophy of education encompasses both academic and social/emotional growth for each student. Emphasis is placed on self respect and respect for others. A positive attitude toward learning is encouraged, and social skill training is emphasized. Family involvement is essential to assure that students will carry over positive behavior to their home and community. Little Keswick School is committed to structure, nurturance, and encouraging the development of responsible, honorable behavior.

pscyhologist counseling student - therapeutic counseling

CLINICAL PROGRAM

The clinical program encompasses all aspects of the program. Each student’s functioning is supported by a developmental model that measures his performance in terms of emotional control, cognition and executive functioning, socialization, relationship, and communication. Efforts in the areas of organization, competence, collaboration, and socialization encourage and assist the student toward the development of self-control, independence and responsibility. Treatment is guided by clinical psychologists and consulting child psychiatrist. Medication needs are monitored by the consulting child psychiatrist who is on campus four days a week. In addition to individual and family psychotherapy provided by clinical psychologists or the consulting child psychiatrist, optional occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, art therapy and one-on-one tutoring and care are available.

>> Back to Top

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Academic instruction during the summer session serves two purposes. First, is for the student to learn basic routines and build relationships. Second is for assessment in the areas of language arts, reading and math. An abbreviated daily school schedule and class size of not more than 8 allows for intensive, individualized instruction by experienced special educators. Additionally, diagnostic testing helps determine student functioning levels. This is valuable information in determining the most appropriate placement and level of academic accommodation needed and support required for future educational settings.

Student works hard at his desk - individualized instruction

INTEGRITY, STABILITY, AND A NURTURING SPIRIT

Little Keswick School provides a nurturing spirit to foster stability and integrity. Building self confidence through extracurricular activities empowers students to learn about themselves and their environment.

“Little Keswick School saved my son’s life. Through the coordinated efforts of the professional team, he received the educational and emotional support that led to his becoming a confident and independent learner.”

—A parent from Washington D.C.

>> Back to Top

OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL, ATHLETIC & RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

It’s summer and plenty of time is available for the arts, athletics and recreation. Experienced instructors provide unique, motivating, and fun daily activities in:

Boys try out boats in the swimming pool, which they made in wood shop

Arts & Crafts
Music
Woodworking
Horseback Riding
Swimming
Soccer
Softball
Basketball
Running
Hiking
Camping
Fishing
Biking
Canoeing
Private Riding Lessons
Religious Education

Optional activities include:

Boy Scouts
Private Music Lessons

>> Back to Top

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS AND TIME TABLE

Application forms and a full psychological evaluation done within the past two years (which includes personality assessment testing) are requested. A 24-hour visit is required. Students are accepted in order of application, appropriateness of fit and space availability.

Students get opportunity to use their rock climbing skills - school culture fosters growth through overcoming challenges

Located on twenty-five pastoral acres beside the scenic Southwest Mountains, yet just seven miles from the City of Charlottesville and the University of Virginia, the School also offers students a wide variety of medical, educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities.