Name: Dracula's Castle
Address: 495-498 Strada General Traian Moșoiu, Bran, Brașov, 507025, Romania
Telephone: 221155

This information has been provided by the setting/provision.

Dracula’s Castle

Welcome, brave souls, to Dracula’s Castle — the most fang-tastic alternative provision for young people this side of Transylvania! Nestled high in the misty hills, our castle offers a safe haven for learners who prefer their education with a little more bite. Here, cobwebs meet creativity, and every corridor echoes with laughter (and the occasional friendly ghost). Our Ethos At Dracula’s Castle, the motto is “From Shadows to Strength.” We believe every young person has a spark — even if it glows best by moonlight. Our mission is to help learners rise from the crypt of self-doubt and spread their bat wings of confidence. Whether someone’s a night owl, a daydreamer, or a full-blown werewolf of wonder, there’s a place here for everyone. The Environment Forget dusty dungeons — this castle is alive (well, mostly). Each room has its own supernatural twist: The Great Hall of Knowledge: Where lessons are served piping hot, with a side of curiosity and a sprinkle of magic. The Laboratory: A bubbling cauldron of science, invention, and the occasional mysterious puff of smoke. The Art Crypt: A creative cavern where imagination runs wild and masterpieces rise from the grave. The Reflection Tower: A peaceful turret for mindfulness, mentoring, and the occasional dramatic thunderclap. Our classrooms may look spooky, but they’re filled with warmth, laughter, and the occasional squeaky bat. Curriculum and Support The curriculum blends academic study with life skills, creativity, and a dash of supernatural flair. Learners tackle English, Maths, Science, and Art — plus workshops in teamwork, wellbeing, and surviving Monday mornings. Our staff (none of whom bite, promise) provide one-to-one mentoring and emotional support, helping every young person find their inner monster of motivation. Community and Belonging Dracula’s Castle is more than a school — it’s a coven, a pack, a family. We celebrate individuality, kindness, and courage, whether that means performing in the Halloween showcase or helping a friend through a foggy day. Expect pumpkin-carving contests, ghost story nights, and the occasional full-moon disco.

Referral Process

If you howl at the moon at midnight, we will be in touch.

Letter of Assurance

Can this setting provide a letter of assurance for the information provided here?

Yes

Quality Assurance Lists

This setting reports it is featured on the following lists:

We are yet to be approved by any local authority – none are brave enough!

TransylvaniaLA.gov.RO

Safeguarding and Welfare of Children

At Dracula’s Castle, safeguarding is no laughing matter — though we do like to keep things light-hearted between full moons. The safety and wellbeing of every young person come before all else (even before the Count’s evening snack). Our mission is simple: no harm, no hauntings, and absolutely no mysterious disappearances into the mist. A Safe and Supportive Environment The castle may creak, groan, and occasionally whisper your name, but rest assured — it’s one of the safest places in the supernatural realm. Every corridor, crypt, and classroom has been risk-assessed by our fearless staff (armed with clipboards and garlic-free torches). The drawbridge is always up when it needs to be, and the moat is patrolled by friendly swamp creatures who double as lifeguards. Learners are encouraged to speak up if something feels off — whether it’s a concern about a classmate or a suspicious shadow that seems to move on its own. Trained and Vigilant Staff Our staff are safeguarding superheroes — trained in child protection, emotional support, and the correct use of holy water (just in case). Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) are always on duty, ready to swoop in faster than a vampire at sunset. They work closely with families, local authorities, and the occasional ghostly advisor to ensure every young person is safe and supported. Promoting Wellbeing and Awareness Safeguarding at Dracula’s Castle isn’t just about keeping the monsters out — it’s about helping learners build the confidence to face their own inner werewolves. Through creative workshops and lessons, students explore topics like online safety, healthy relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Sessions are engaging, interactive, and occasionally feature guest appearances from friendly spirits who know a thing or two about boundaries.

Recruitment Details

At Dracula’s Castle, the staff recruitment process is as thorough as a vampire’s bedtime routine — no shortcuts, no shadows left unchecked. Every member of the team is carefully selected for their skills, compassion, and ability to thrive in a slightly spooky but always supportive environment. The goal is to build a team of professionals who can inspire, protect, and occasionally laugh in the face of a ghostly draft.

The Selection Process
Recruitment begins with a call for brave, dedicated individuals who aren’t afraid of the dark (or of teenagers). Applicants are invited to submit their credentials, references, and proof that they can survive a full moon without incident.

Shortlisted candidates are then summoned — by email, not bat — to attend an interview at the castle. The process includes:

Interviews in the Great Hall: A chance to discuss experience, values, and how they’d handle a classroom full of lively spirits (metaphorical or otherwise).
Practical Tasks: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate teaching skills, creative thinking, or how they’d calm a nervous werewolf before maths.
Safeguarding Checks: Every applicant undergoes enhanced background checks, reference verification, and safeguarding training before joining the team. No skeletons in the closet allowed — we check those thoroughly.

Policies Available

Behaviour Policy
Child Protection Policy
Staff Behaviour Policy
E-Safety Policy
Prevent Policy
Data Protection (GDPR Compliance) Policy
Privacy Notice
ICO Registration
Equality and Diversity Statement

Health and Safety

Health and safety at Dracula’s Castle is no mere mortal matter — it’s a sacred vow. Behind the flickering torches and creaky staircases lies a fortress of care, where every precaution is taken to protect learners, staff, and the occasional visiting ghost. The castle may look Gothic, but its safety standards are positively modern. Safe Spaces for All Every turret, tower, and tomb has been risk-assessed by our fearless Health and Safety Officer (armed with a clipboard, not a crucifix). From the Great Hall to the Art Crypt, all learning spaces are designed to be secure, accessible, and hazard-free — no loose cobblestones, no rogue bats, and definitely no open coffins. Fire and Emergency Procedures Even in a castle built of stone, fire safety is taken seriously. Regular drills ensure everyone knows how to exit swiftly — no teleportation required. Fire extinguishers, alarms, and emergency lighting are installed throughout the castle, and staff are trained to lead safe evacuations (even through fog or dramatic thunder). First Aid and Medical Support A team of trained first aiders is always on hand to deal with bumps, scrapes, or fainting fits caused by overexcitement or unexpected apparitions. The infirmary is fully stocked with medical supplies, plasters, and a few vials of “mystery tonic” (strictly vitamin-based). Individual health plans are created for learners with medical needs, ensuring everyone receives the right care at the right time. Hygiene and Cleanliness Despite the castle’s ancient charm, hygiene is kept to the highest standard. The cleaning team works tirelessly to keep cobwebs decorative, not functional. Handwashing stations, sanitiser points, and regular deep cleans ensure the environment stays fresh — even when the air smells faintly of candle wax and mystery. Equipment and Environment All equipment, from cauldrons to computers, is regularly inspected and maintained. Science experiments are supervised, art tools are handled safely, and broomsticks are parked responsibly. Outdoor areas, including the moat and courtyard, are secured and monitored to prevent accidents or unscheduled swims.

Additional Standards:

Is a public liability policy active and displayed within the provision?

Yes – this standard is being met.

Admissions Support and Guidance

Applying to Dracula’s Castle is a little like being invited into a vampire’s lair — formal, friendly, and completely safe (we promise). The admissions process is designed to be welcoming, transparent, and only mildly spooky. No secret handshakes, no blood pacts — just a few simple steps to join the most fang-tastic alternative provision around.

Step 1: The Summoning (a.k.a. Referral)
Referrals can come from schools, local authorities, or families seeking a more magical educational experience. Once the castle receives a referral, our admissions team (who work mostly by daylight) reviews the details carefully to ensure the provision is the right fit. Smoke signals and carrier bats are no longer accepted — email works best.

Step 2: The Invitation
If the stars align and the moon approves, the young person and their family are invited to visit the castle. This is a chance to explore the grounds, meet the staff, and check that the décor — cobwebs, gargoyles, and all — feels suitably inspiring. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions, meet the team, and reassure themselves that the moat is purely decorative.

Step 3: The Tour of Terror (Actually Quite Nice)
During the visit, guests are guided through the Great Hall of Knowledge, the Art Crypt, and the Reflection Tower. They’ll see classrooms alive with creativity, laughter, and the occasional floating candle. The Count himself may make an appearance — but only to say hello and offer a biscuit (chocolate, not blood-flavoured).

Step 4: The Enrolment Ritual
Once everyone agrees that Dracula’s Castle is the perfect fit, the enrolment process begins. This involves completing a few forms (written in plain English, not ancient runes), sharing key information, and agreeing on a start date. A personalised learning plan is created for each new arrival — tailored to their strengths, needs, and supernatural potential.

Step 5: The Grand Welcome
On their first day, new learners are greeted by staff and fellow students with warmth, enthusiasm, and possibly a dramatic organ flourish. A buddy system helps newcomers settle in quickly, and the pastoral team ensures every young person feels safe, supported, and ready to rise from the shadows into success.

Step 6: The Transformation
Within weeks, most learners begin to flourish — confidence grows, creativity awakens, and attendance improves faster than a vampire at sunset. Families are kept informed through regular updates, meetings, and the occasional enchanted newsletter.

At Dracula’s Castle, admissions aren’t about tests or trials — they’re about finding a place where every young person can belong, thrive, and maybe howl at the moon once in a while.

Induction Processes

The induction process at Dracula’s Castle is designed to help every new learner feel right at home — or at least as comfortable as one can be in a castle with talking portraits and suspiciously creaky doors. From the moment a new arrival crosses the drawbridge, the goal is to make them feel safe, supported, and ready to begin their adventure in learning (and possibly mild haunting).

Step 1: The Grand Arrival
New learners are greeted at the gates by friendly staff — no bats, no jump scares, just warm smiles and maybe a puff of theatrical fog for atmosphere. Each student is paired with a “Castle Buddy,” a fellow learner who helps them navigate the corridors, avoid the trick staircases, and find the best spot in the Great Hall for lunch.

Step 2: The Welcome Tour
The induction tour covers all the key areas of the castle:

The Great Hall of Knowledge: Where lessons happen and snacks mysteriously vanish.
The Laboratory: For science, experiments, and the occasional puff of green smoke.
The Art Crypt: A creative space where imagination runs wild and glitter is considered a controlled substance.
The Reflection Tower: A quiet place for mindfulness, mentoring, and dramatic views of the moors.
Learners also meet the staff, discover where to find help, and learn the all-important rule: never feed the gargoyles after dark.

Step 3: The Orientation Scroll
Each new learner receives an induction pack — affectionately known as the Orientation Scroll — containing:

A welcome letter from the Head of the Castle
A timetable (written in ink, not blood)
Key contact information
Safeguarding and wellbeing guidance
A map of the castle (complete with “Here Be Dragons” warnings for fun)
Step 4: Meeting the Mentors
During the first week, learners meet their mentor — a trusted member of staff who provides one-to-one support, answers questions, and helps them settle in. Mentors check in regularly to make sure everything is going smoothly and that no one’s been accidentally locked in the library tower.

Step 5: Settling into the Shadows
The first few weeks are all about adjustment. Learners are gradually introduced to lessons, routines, and expectations. Staff keep a close eye on wellbeing, offering encouragement, reassurance, and the occasional biscuit. Group activities, creative projects, and team challenges help new students build friendships and confidence.

Step 6: The Welcome Feast
To celebrate the end of induction, the castle hosts a Welcome Feast — a joyful gathering in the Great Hall with music, laughter, and snacks that definitely don’t bite back. It’s a chance for new learners to feel part of the community and for everyone to raise a (non-blood) toast to new beginnings.

At Dracula’s Castle, induction isn’t about rules and routines — it’s about belonging, bravery, and discovering that even in the spookiest of places, there’s always light, laughter, and a friendly face waiting in the corridor.

Quality of Education

At Dracula’s Castle, the quality of education is so good it’s almost scary. Lessons are designed to awaken curiosity, spark creativity, and keep learners engaged — even those who claim to be “allergic to mornings.” The teaching team combines centuries of wisdom (and a few immortals) with modern methods to ensure every young person leaves with knowledge, confidence, and possibly a mild fear of garlic.

The Quality of Education
The castle’s approach to learning is as rigorous as it is ridiculous. Lessons are interactive, inclusive, and occasionally interrupted by thunderclaps for dramatic effect. Staff are highly trained, endlessly patient, and fluent in both English and the language of teenage sighs.

Every learner receives a personalised learning plan — tailored to their strengths, interests, and supernatural potential. Progress is tracked carefully, with regular feedback, mentoring, and the occasional motivational howl from the Head of the Castle.

Inspectors (when brave enough to visit) have described the atmosphere as “shockingly positive,” “creatively chaotic,” and “surprisingly well-lit for a Gothic fortress.”

Courses Offered
Dracula’s Castle offers a broad and balanced curriculum — with a few spooky twists:

English and Literature: From Shakespeare to spooky storytelling, learners explore language, communication, and the art of dramatic monologues (perfect for moonlit towers).
Mathematics: Numbers, logic, and problem-solving — because even vampires need to count their bats.
Science: Chemistry, biology, and physics taught in the Laboratory, where experiments occasionally bubble, fizz, or cackle.
Art and Design: Creative expression in the Art Crypt, where masterpieces rise from the grave and glitter is feared but respected.
Digital Media: Modern technology meets ancient mystery — coding, design, and digital storytelling for the next generation of tech-savvy sorcerers.
Life Skills: Cooking, budgeting, teamwork, and how to politely decline an invitation to a midnight séance.
Wellbeing and Personal Development: Mindfulness, resilience, and emotional intelligence — because even monsters need mental health days.
Optional enrichment sessions include Potion-Making for Beginners, Gothic Gardening, and Advanced Cloak Swishing.

Qualifications and Achievements
Learners at Dracula’s Castle work toward recognised qualifications, including:

Functional Skills in English, Maths, and ICT
GCSEs and equivalent vocational awards
Certificates in Art, Digital Media, and Personal Development
The prestigious Order of the Silver Fang (awarded for exceptional effort, kindness, and attendance during daylight hours)
Every qualification is nationally recognised — though the castle does occasionally issue honorary titles such as Master of Mischief or Count of Creativity.

Specialist Staffing

A Team to Howl About
The staff at Dracula’s Castle are the beating heart of the fortress — dedicated, talented, and only slightly nocturnal. Each member of the team is chosen for their expertise, compassion, and ability to thrive in an environment where the chandeliers occasionally flicker and the portraits sometimes wink. Together, they create a safe, inspiring, and delightfully spooky place for young people to learn and grow.

The Leadership Coven
At the top of the tower sits the Senior Leadership Team — wise, experienced, and occasionally dramatic. They oversee the castle’s vision, ensuring that every learner receives a high-quality education and that no one accidentally opens the door to the crypt during lessons. The Head of the Castle leads with courage, kindness, and a flair for the theatrical, supported by deputies who keep everything running smoother than a freshly polished coffin lid.

The Teaching Team
The teaching staff are a mix of seasoned educators, creative thinkers, and brave souls who can handle both algebra and apparitions. They bring lessons to life with energy, humour, and the occasional puff of theatrical smoke. Whether it’s English in the Great Hall, Science in the Laboratory, or Art in the Crypt, every subject is taught with passion and a touch of magic.

Each teacher is trained in trauma-informed practice, safeguarding, and classroom management — as well as basic ghost etiquette. They adapt lessons to meet individual needs, ensuring that every learner, mortal or otherwise, can shine.

SEND Support

At Dracula’s Castle, every learner — whether human, ghost, or something delightfully in-between — is valued, supported, and celebrated. The castle’s approach to Special Educational Needs (SEN) is built on inclusion, understanding, and a touch of supernatural flair. No one is left lurking in the shadows; every young person is given the tools, guidance, and encouragement to shine like a full moon on a foggy night.

The SEN Coven
The castle’s SEN team is a group of highly trained specialists — wise witches, patient werewolves, and empathetic educators — who work tirelessly to ensure that every learner’s individual needs are met. They collaborate with teachers, families, and external professionals to craft personalised support plans that are as unique as a vampire’s reflection (or lack thereof).

Each member of the SEN team is trained in a range of strategies, from sensory support and communication techniques to emotional regulation and behaviour management. They’re also experts in calming restless spirits and decoding mysterious noises in the corridors.

Individual Learning Plans (ILPs)
Every learner with additional needs receives an Individual Learning Plan — a magical document that outlines their strengths, challenges, and the support they require. These plans are reviewed regularly (usually under candlelight) to ensure progress is steady and goals remain ambitious. Adjustments might include:

Extra time for tasks (especially during full moons)
Quiet spaces for reflection and focus
Visual aids, sensory tools, and enchanted fidget items
One-to-one or small group support from specialist staff
Inclusive Classrooms
Lessons at Dracula’s Castle are designed to be accessible to all. Teachers use differentiated instruction, creative resources, and a healthy dose of humour to make learning engaging for every student. Whether it’s using potions to teach chemistry or storytelling to explore emotions, the castle’s classrooms are places where imagination and inclusion go hand in hand.

Assistive technology is also available — from talking spellbooks to enchanted tablets that read text aloud. The goal is simple: to remove barriers faster than a ghost can glide through a wall.

Emotional and Wellbeing Support
The castle understands that learning isn’t just about academics — it’s about feeling safe, confident, and understood. The pastoral team provides mentoring, counselling, and wellbeing sessions in the Reflection Tower, a calm space filled with soft lighting, comfy chairs, and the occasional friendly apparition.

Learners are encouraged to express themselves, manage their emotions, and build resilience — because even the bravest vampire needs a little help facing the daylight sometimes.

Working with Families and Allies
Partnership is key. The SEN team works closely with parents, carers, and external agencies to ensure consistent, holistic support. Regular meetings, progress updates, and open communication keep everyone connected — no crystal balls required.

The Magic of Inclusion
At Dracula’s Castle, difference is not just accepted — it’s celebrated. Every learner brings something special to the community, and the castle’s ethos ensures that no one feels invisible, unheard, or left behind.

In the halls of Dracula’s Castle, support for special educational needs isn’t just a policy — it’s a promise: that every young person, no matter their powers or peculiarities, will find a place to belong, learn, and rise from the shadows into their brightest, most bewitching self.

Testimonials

Frankenstein’s Monster "My little Frankie Jr. used to struggle to fit in — people said he was too stitched together for mainstream education. But at Dracula’s Castle, he’s found his spark! The science lab is his happy place, and the teachers don’t even flinch when he accidentally reanimates the classroom hamster. Highly recommended — electrifying results!" The Mummy of Cairo "I was wrapped up in worry about my son’s education, but the team at Dracula’s Castle unrolled all my fears. They understood his need for structure (and bandages) and helped him build confidence layer by layer. He’s thriving — and his attendance is undead impressive!" The Wolfman "My twins, Luna and Howl, have always been a handful — especially around full moons. But the staff at Dracula’s Castle are absolute legends. They’ve created a calm, supportive environment where my pups can learn without judgment. The moonlight mindfulness sessions are a stroke of genius. Awooooo-some school!"

Category: All Alternative Provision

Address: 495-498 Strada General Traian Moșoiu
Bran
Brașov
507025
Romania

Phone: 221155

Email: dracula@brancastle-ap.com

Website

Areas of Interest:

Other

Further information about areas of interest:

Supernatural Studies, Biology (specifically blood related studies)

GDPR Compliance (Self Reported)

Service Costs

Please enquire with the setting. Gold coins only (or bitecoin)

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