Belong School Gloucestershire looks ahead to a transformative period of expansion, following the Department for Education’s approval for significant changes in its operations. Situated in Whaddon, Gloucester, the independent special school focuses on catering to pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs, including autism.
With all current pupils holding an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, the school received positive feedback from an Ofsted material change inspection on December 18, 2024. This milestone assessment paves the way for lowering the age range to 11 and increasing the maximum capacity to 50 pupils from the existing 32.
A crucial aspect of the school’s preparation for the age range shift includes adapting the curriculum to meet the needs of younger pupils. By revising the curriculum and incorporating essential elements required by independent school standards, Belong School aims to ensure a seamless transition for its incoming 11-year-old students.
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Recognizing the varying literacy levels of younger learners, the school has appointed staff with primary teaching expertise and specialized knowledge in early reading intervention. This strategic move enhances the tailored literacy support provided to each pupil based on their individual requirements.
Emphasizing personalized learning, the school conducts comprehensive on-entry assessments for new students, allowing the development of personalized curriculum plans and tailored interventions based on the pupils' EHC plans. Speech and language support is also integrated as needed.
Deeply committed to safeguarding, the school has been acknowledged for creating a highly effective safeguarding culture, supported by dedicated safeguarding leads equipped with a comprehensive understanding of statutory guidance. Regular staff training, debriefs, and collaboration with multi-agency safeguarding teams further underscore the robust safeguarding measures in place.
The school’s pastoral care approach stands out as well, with every student being assigned a key worker who maintains regular contact with parents, recognizing and addressing any gaps in the students' previous education.
As part of its expansion strategy, the school is gearing up to move to a new site at Wild Goose Lodge, Slimbridge, featuring extensively renovated premises with dedicated classrooms, subject-specific rooms, therapy spaces, and an indoor gymnasium. Safety is paramount, as demonstrated by the presence of an anti-climb perimeter fence ensuring secure access.
While some refurbishment work is ongoing, including the installation of safety features like fencing around the pond and the multi-use games area, the school is committed to completing all necessary measures before admitting pupils.
Belong School Gloucestershire has meticulously approached its expansion plans, conscientiously addressing regulatory requirements while demonstrating proactive planning. Notably, the school’s leadership team’s experience managing independent special schools and their commitment to upholding high standards have received acknowledgment from local authorities and Ofsted.
Awaiting final planning approval for a change of use, the school eagerly anticipates welcoming students to its new location.