Currently under development through the extensive refurbishment of a former primary school site, Shillington Park School will provide specialist education for up to 72 children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including those with complex speech, language and communication needs and moderate learning disabilities.
Ricardo joins the school with more than 15 years of experience in education and a strong track record of leading positive outcomes for children with additional needs. Having started his career in a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) in Lewisham, he has since progressed through a range of senior leadership positions within specialist SEND settings and has successfully led a school from its early stages to achieving an Outstanding Ofsted judgement.
His appointment marks an important milestone as preparations continue for the opening of Shillington Park School and the creation of a new specialist learning community in south London.
Speaking about his appointment, Ricardo said:
"I came into education because I wanted to make a real difference in people’s lives. What I have always found most fulfilling is helping children and young people recognise their potential, develop confidence in themselves and build positive futures."
"My vision for Shillington Park School is to create an environment where every child feels safe, valued and supported to succeed. We will have high expectations for every pupil, while recognising and celebrating their individual strengths. Alongside academic achievement, we will focus on developing the confidence, resilience and life skills that help young people thrive both in school and beyond."
"Most importantly, we want every child to know that they belong. We will build a school community where strong relationships, trust and partnership with families are at the heart of everything we do."
Shillington Park School will benefit from Kedleston Group’s established therapeutic and holistic approach to education. Small class sizes, high staff-to-pupil ratios and integrated therapeutic support will enable highly personalised learning programmes tailored to each pupil’s individual needs.
Ricardo is particularly excited about the opportunity to help shape a school designed specifically around the needs of the children and young people it will serve.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to develop a school from the ground up. Every aspect of the learning environment has been carefully considered to support children’s needs and create a place where they can flourish. We are creating a school where learning is engaging, relationships are strong and positive outcomes are at the centre of everything we do."
As part of Kedleston Group’s growing network of specialist schools, Shillington Park School will join Brookways School in Sutton, Silverways School in Enfield, Leaways School in Hackney and Mapesbury School in Brent. Together, these schools will continue to share expertise, collaborate closely and provide exceptional educational opportunities for neurodivergent children and young people across London.
The opening of Shillington Park School represents another important step in Kedleston Group’s mission of nurturing brighter futures for neurodivergent children, expanding access to high-quality specialist education and ensuring more children can learn, grow and achieve within supportive, inclusive environments where everyone belongs.
