• White Lee Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 8AS

Physical Team

Guided Mobility Team

At Fairfield School we are fortunate enough to have an electrically propelled platform that follows an electronic signal when a single switch is pressed. This track is underneath our carpet and outside and has 5 different routes the pupils can take.

The track enables our pupils who are unable to use a conventional powered wheelchair to experience independence and develop skills for mobility. The platform can also be used off the track with up to four switches.

A pupil in their manual chair can be pushed onto the platform via a ramp and then using a single switch can press the switch and move the platform forward

This system benefits our students in a range of ways it can:

  • Encourage cause and effect – understanding early intentional actions

  • Increase confidence

  • Improve their driving skills

  • Increase independence

  • Education through exploration of the environment

  • Initiation of communication

  • Structured, safe and purposeful mobility

  • Switch assessment and training

  • Training in the use of independent assistive equipment

  • Development of cognitive skills

  • Fun through play activities

     

This has allowed pupils with complex and multiple disabilities to control their own mobility for the first time and has proved to be a powerful motivator for learning.

Some pupils have progressed onto having a power chair of their own.