CREAM teas, displays, a play and barbecue were all on the menu at an open day held at Chelfham Senior School near Tavistock last Wednesday, writes Jane Honey.
Students at the school, who have a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties, showed visitors around the grounds and gave guided tours of the gardens, animal enclosures and inside the school itself.
There was a baking competition, a Duke of Edinburgh award scheme display and even a short drama, called 'The Setting Sun'.
Jonathan Hammond, head of care, said: 'It was a great day — the weather co-operated wonderfully and everybody had a great time.
'The students' efforts over the year were really appreciated by all the visitors.'
West Devon mayor Christine Grills spent several hours at the school meeting students.
She said: 'It was a very interesting experience, and great to see what the youngsters there are able to achieve and how they cope with their problems.
'The school deserves a great deal more recognition for what they do.'
Cllr Grills said it was easy to take for granted everyday tasks like going shopping or even just communicating with people.
'These things are really something, quite a major step for them. I found it quite awe-inspiring,' she said.
Chelfham Senior School opened in September 1996, initially for 12 young men.
There are now 20 students at the school, who are given extra support with their transition between school and adult life.
The next development at the school is the opening of a semi-independent bungalow catering for six students nearing the end of their time at Chelfham, which is due to open this autumn.