Specialist SEMH School
A safe place to learn, grow, and thrive
Northstar Schools is a small, specialist provision for children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. We provide a nurturing environment where every pupil is supported to reach their full potential.
Small
Class sizes of 6-8 pupils
SEMH
Specialist social & emotional support
1:3
Staff-to-pupil ratio
100%
Commitment to every child
About Us
Built around the needs of every child
Northstar Schools provides specialist education for children and young people whose social, emotional and mental health needs mean they cannot thrive in a mainstream setting. Our small class sizes, high staff ratios, and therapeutic approach create the conditions for real progress.
Safety
Every child feels safe, secure, and valued from the moment they arrive.
Respect
We treat each other with kindness, dignity, and understanding.
Resilience
We help young people develop the strength to overcome challenges.
Achievement
We celebrate every step forward, no matter how small.
Our Curriculum
Learning shaped around every pupil
Our broad and balanced curriculum is adapted to meet each child where they are, combining academic rigour with therapeutic support and enrichment.
Core Academic Learning
Personalised English, Maths, and Science programmes adapted to each pupil's needs and pace, with a focus on building confidence alongside knowledge.
Therapeutic Support
Embedded therapeutic approaches including speech and language therapy, art therapy, and trauma-informed practice woven throughout the school day.
Life Skills & Enrichment
Practical life skills, cooking, outdoor education, and creative arts that build resilience, self-regulation, and a love of learning.
Personal Development
Structured PSHE, social skills groups, and restorative practice that help pupils understand themselves and build positive relationships.
Admissions
Joining Northstar Schools
We welcome referrals from local authorities, parents, carers, and other professionals. Our admissions process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, ensuring we find the right placement for each child.
Initial Enquiry
Contact us by phone or email to discuss your child's needs. We are happy to talk through what we offer.
Information Sharing
We review the child's EHCP, reports, and any relevant documentation to understand their needs.
Visit & Assessment
We invite the child and family to visit the school, meet staff, and spend time in our environment.
Placement Decision
A collaborative decision is made with all parties, and a transition plan is agreed to ensure a smooth start.
Make an Enquiry
If you think Northstar Schools might be the right fit for a child or young person, we would love to hear from you. There is no obligation -- we are happy to have an initial conversation.
Phone
01234 567 890
admissions@northstarschools.org.uk
We accept referrals throughout the year. Placements are subject to availability and suitability assessment. All enquiries are treated in confidence.
Safeguarding
Keeping children safe is our highest priority
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is at the heart of everything we do. All staff receive regular training and are committed to creating a safe environment where children can learn and grow.
Trained Staff
All staff hold current DBS checks and complete safeguarding training annually. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is available at all times.
Clear Policies
Our safeguarding policy is reviewed annually and follows the latest statutory guidance from Keeping Children Safe in Education.
Open Communication
We work closely with families, local authorities, and external agencies to ensure every child's safety and wellbeing are protected.
For Parents & Carers
Working together with families
We believe that strong partnerships between school and home are essential for every child's success. We keep parents informed and involved at every stage.
Regular Communication
Weekly updates, termly reports, and an open-door policy so you always know how your child is doing.
Annual Reviews
We coordinate and host EHCP annual reviews, working with you and your local authority to track progress.
Parent Events
Regular parents' evenings, workshops, and informal coffee mornings to build a supportive community.
Home-School Agreement
A clear, shared understanding of expectations and commitments that supports consistent progress.
Every child deserves the right support
If you would like to find out more about Northstar Schools, or discuss whether we could be the right placement for a child or young person, please get in touch.