Key information
Wings School Notts is dedicated to supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Our comprehensive approach focuses on the holistic development of each student, ensuring their therapy, education, and personal growth are seamlessly integrated. This offer is designed for both day and residential pupils, with a curriculum and environment that reflect our commitment to attachment-aware, trauma-informed, and strengths-based practices.
Therapeutic Support
Wings School Notts offers a robust therapeutic program tailored to meet the individual needs of pupils. Key features include:
- Attachment-Aware and Trauma-Informed Practices: Our staff are trained to understand and support pupils with attachment and trauma-related challenges.
- Integrated Therapy Services: On-site therapists provide speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support. These services are woven into the daily routines to ensure accessibility and continuity of care.
- Sensory-Friendly Environment: Classrooms and common areas are designed to be ASC-friendly, with sensory rooms and quiet zones available to help pupils manage sensory overload.
Educational Provision
Our educational framework is designed to cater to the unique learning needs of pupils with ASC and SEMH:
- Adapted National Curriculum: We offer a curriculum based on the National Curriculum, adapted for SEN needs, covering Key Stages 2, 3, and 4. This leads to a core offer of four GCSEs (Double Science, English, and Maths), a BTEC in Personal Growth and Wellbeing, and additional qualifications in physical education, technical, and humanities subjects.
- Functional Skills Assessments: Available for pupils where these are more suitable, ensuring every child can achieve their potential.
- Inclusive Learning Environment: High-quality hot and cold meals, funded access to school trips, extracurricular activities, and support with school uniforms, including specialist clothing for sports and PPE for work placements, are provided.
Personal Development
Wings School Notts places a strong emphasis on the personal growth and development of each pupil:
- Pro-Social Behaviour and Life Skills: Programs are designed to foster values-driven behaviour, life skills, and employability skills.
- Community-Based Approach: We operate as a community of staff and children, working restoratively to maintain high expectations and support levels.
- Celebration of Achievements: Efforts and attainments are regularly celebrated, promoting a culture of mutual support and encouragement.
Inclusive Practices and Community Engagement
- Lead Inclusion School: Wings School Notts is recognised for its inclusive practices in physical activity, play, games, and sport. We host events supporting inter-school games and coaching activities.
- Residential Care: Pupils in residence are given the opportunity to personalise their living spaces. Our 20-acre site provides ample space for movement and learning in a supportive environment.
- Community Involvement: Pupils participate in local work experience, fund-raising events, and volunteer activities, fostering strong community ties and real-world learning.
Safeguarding and Staff Development
- Safeguarding Practices: Daily briefings and debriefings ensure continuous reflection on safeguarding. A corporate DSP, supported by a DSL and six DDSLs, oversees safeguarding activities. Mandatory training is refreshed annually.
- Professional Development: Staff undergo a comprehensive induction, regular supervision, and continuous professional development. Performance is assessed using Teacher and TA Standards, with coaching and structured support available as needed.
Assessment and Improvement
- Performance Evaluation: Senior Leaders conduct regular learning walks, work scrutinies, and internal audits. Data from educational and therapeutic progress, attendance, and behaviour are analysed to drive improvements.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Feedback is provided through INSET days, briefings, 1:1 meetings, and performance management sessions. Observations and data analysis inform the School Development Plan.
Transition Support
- Preparing for Adulthood: Weekly assemblies, a comprehensive Skills for Life program, and independent careers advice help pupils develop aspirations and prepare for post-16 transitions.
- Post-16 Planning: Individual careers plans are developed and reviewed regularly, ensuring pupils are supported in identifying and achieving their future goals.
Additional Social Value
- Local Employment and Training: Wings School Notts employs 104 people and collaborates with local contractors and suppliers. Pupils engage in local work experience, fundraising, and community service activities.
- Environmental and Economic Contributions: The school supports local businesses and participates in community events, enhancing the social fabric of the area.
Ensuring a Resilient Workforce
Wings School Notts’ commitment to a skilled and resilient workforce includes:
- Comprehensive Induction: New staff undergo a two-week induction, including self-directed online learning and familiarisation with school policies. Meetings with DSL and DDSLs address safeguarding in the school context.
- Ongoing Training and Support: Regular supervision, in-house training, external courses, and networking events are provided. Feedback and coaching follow learning walks and audits.
- Restorative Team Culture: Daily staff meetings promote a solution-focused, reflective, and supportive environment, reducing stress and enhancing resilience.
Driving Improvements through Performance Learning
Wings School Notts continually improves through:
- Daily Evaluations: Performance is assessed through daily debriefing meetings, learning walks, and internal audits.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Analysis of educational, therapeutic, attendance, and behaviour data identifies areas for improvement.
- Feedback and Development: Feedback is provided through various channels, with outcomes informing the School Development Plan and governance scrutiny.
Creating a Suitable Physical and Sensory Environment
Wings School Notts ensures a supportive environment through:
- Personalised Spaces: Residential pupils personalise their rooms, and sensory needs are addressed through tailored interventions by Occupational Therapists and SENCO.
- Regular Audits: Senior Leaders, alongside Occupational and Speech Therapists, audit the environment for sensory impact, with rapid implementation of improvements.
- Student Involvement: Pupils contribute to environmental decisions through School Council Meetings, ensuring their needs and preferences are met.
Supporting Transitions and Aspirations
Wings School Notts prepares pupils for adulthood by:
- Career Education: Weekly assemblies and a Skills for Life program develop employability skills. Independent careers advice supports personalised career plans.
- Transition Support: Visits to post-16 providers and personalised transition plans ensure smooth transitions for pupils.
Delivering Additional Social Value
Wings School Notts contributes to the community by:
- Local Employment: Employing local staff and using local suppliers.
- Community Engagement: Pupils participate in local work experience, fundraising, and community service.
- Environmental Commitment: The school prioritises sustainability through local sourcing and community initiatives.