Our History

Area 51 Education was created by two SEN professionals and a student to ensure that young people with severe, complex and profound learning difficulties and physical disabilities had the opportunity to attend further education and training when general further education colleges were unable to meet their individual needs.

​

Adham's experiences of accessing college highlighted the difficulties for a non-verbal young person with cerebral palsy, who needed support with movement, personal care and tube-feeding.  His applications were rejected due to the lack of facilities and specially trained staff and when he did finally gain a place, the course was shut after 6 months as a result of funding changes.

​

Deeply frustrated, Adham joined forces with Nicki and George to create Area 51 Education.  Starting as a small adult education centre running part-time courses and sensory sessions, we have grown into specialist college for 19-25's and an adult service for 18+ people who have severe or profound learning difficulties and complex medical or physical support needs.   Sadly, Adham passed away in 2017, but his legacy lives on in our ethos of collaborative and co-produced service delviery that celebrates every person for the unique individual they are and all they bring to others.

​

Now, in 2024, we know we have some challenges ahead.  Our college needs to move due to the regeneration of the Haringey Heartlands area and like all charities, the financial climate presents some real difficulties to service provision.  But we have a great team to face these challenges head on and, we hope, you will join us on the next steps in our journey as a student, parent/carer, staff member, governor or supporter.