The department was put in the spotlight at a glittery ceremony at The Grand Hotel in Birmingham for its remarkable work in helping pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and learning  differences thrive and achieve.  

The Awards are hosted by nasen – the National Association for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities – and supported by sponsors Scanning Pens, who is also the awards headline sponsor, Axcis Education, and official awards media partner, Schools Week. nasen is the leading membership charity that supports children and young people with SEND to reach their full potential, whilst being a champion, friend and protector of the SEND workforce.

Scooping nasen’s Award for Secondary Provision, our Supportive Education Department was recognised for its innovative work to ensure that all learners feel fully supported in the school.

Under the leadership of headteacher Lee Cummins, a former SENCO, the school created a Supportive Education Department that is fully inclusive, and has become a satellite school for the local specialist setting, Dorin Park. The Supportive Education Department has created a number of engaging facilities including a sensory garden, sensory room and even a small animal farm. Many students choose to keep in touch with department staff after leaving the school, and return to complete work experience sessions in conjunction with the local college.