Dukes Wood School has not only officially unveiled its new name, but has also welcomed a new Headteacher and received positive feedback following a recent visit from Ofsted.
Formerly known as Wings School Notts, the specialist school has adopted its new identity to reflect both its evolving provision and its strong connection to the local area and heritage. The change comes at a time of significant investment, curriculum development and growing demand for its specialist support for children and young people with Autism and associated conditions.
Adding to the excitement, experienced education leader Frances Rhodes has taken up the role of Headteacher, bringing almost three decades of experience in education and school leadership.
Frances joins the school at a particularly positive moment, following a successful visit from Ofsted which recognised the quality of education, care and support being provided for pupils.
Now entering her 29th year in education, Frances began her career as a music teacher before progressing into senior leadership and headship roles. Throughout her career she has worked closely with pupils with additional needs and has played a key role in developing inclusive provision for young people who require additional support to thrive.
She said: ". “From the moment I first visited Dukes Wood School, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to be. There was an immediate sense of community, warmth and purpose. The staff know every child exceptionally well and work closely together, creating an environment where young people can truly thrive and succeed.”
"It is incredibly exciting to be joining the school at such a significant moment in its journey. The positive feedback from Ofsted is testament to the hard work and commitment of the staff team and reflects the strong foundations already in place.
"Together, we have a real opportunity to build on that success, create even more opportunities for our young people and families, and continue developing a provision where every pupil feels understood, valued and is ready for their life after education."
The school's transition to Dukes Wood School reflects how its offer has evolved in recent years. Increasingly, the school supports young people whose primary needs relate to ASC alongside associated SEMH needs, while demand has continued to grow for specialist day education provision.
Recent investment has included the expansion of teaching and learning facilities and the opening of a state-of-the-art new school building, creating additional opportunities for practical and enriching learning experiences.
The curriculum has also been broadened with the introduction of new qualifications and pathways, including a therapeutic curriculum supported by the school's on-site farm, home to a range of animals including alpacas.
Looking ahead, Frances is keen to build further on the school's strengths, with ambitions to expand opportunities in expressive arts and performance, strengthen community engagement and develop experiences that help students build independence and prepare for adult life.
Lee Reed, Chief Operating Officer at Kedleston Group, said: "This is a really exciting time for the school. While the name is changing, its commitment to providing exceptional education, care and support for children and young people remains unchanged.
"Dukes Wood School reflects both where we come from and where we are going, and I am delighted to welcome Frances Rhodes, who will be leading the school into this next stage of its journey.
"The move to Dukes Wood School represents much more than a new name. It recognises the way the school has evolved to meet the needs of today's pupils while celebrating our unique location and heritage. Combined with the positive outcome of the recent Ofsted visit and the appointment of a highly experienced new Headteacher, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the school, its pupils, families and staff."
