A new independent school has opened in Gloucester thanks to a £10.9 million investment into special educational needs.
The launch of the new day school, named Valley Bridge, is a bid to provide more care for Gloucestershire students who need extra help at school.
The special educational needs and disabilities school provides education services for children with a range of learning needs, including social, emotional and mental health difficulties, autistic spectrum conditions and associated complex needs.
Based in Church Lane, on the edge of the city, it already has 33 pupils enrolled and has a capacity of 52 pupils of mixed sex, ranging in age from six to 19.
Under the direction of headteacher Daniel Woods, the school promotes 'enterprise learning' to help pupils understand their strengths, ambitions, interests and aspirations.
Teaching is delivered through practical, experiential learning with a curriculum that focuses on fostering a love of learning, connection to community, and healthy living.
The school's website says: 'We know the current system of education does not work for everyone, as evidenced by increasing absenteeism and school refusal, rising rates of mental health issues for children and young people, and growing lack of student self-confidence in their ability to learn.
'That is why we have designed our curriculum around students whose needs are not being met by the wider education system. Many of our students have had extended periods out of education, have negative views of school, and do not see themselves as capable of learning.
'We feel that too often the curriculum for students with special needs is not ambitious enough and that, with the right support and approach, all students can achieve their full potential.'
Owned by Spaghetti Bridge, the new school is part of Downing-backed specialist education group Bridges Care and Education (BCE).
BCE, which was established in 2020 and operates eight schools in the UK, is working closely with local authorities and commissioners to meet local demand.
Torsten Mack, investment director at Downing LLP, said: 'We are delighted to support BCE with the opening of its eighth school marking the latest stage in its growth journey.
'This strengthens its position as one of the leading providers of specialist education in southern England. There is a growing need for special educational needs and disabilities schools and BCE management continues to focus on filling this gap by opening high quality schools with Downing’s support.'
CEO of Bridges Care and Education, Dan Alipaz, said: 'The opening of Valley Bridge is a significant milestone for BCE, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and quality education.
'The school will provide much-needed specialised education and support to children with diverse needs and will also contribute to the overall growth and wellbeing of the Gloucester community.
'We are proud to play a pivotal role in not only expanding educational opportunities for children with special needs, but also to provide new and innovative educational models that give children the opportunity to develop the necessary skills for a rapidly changing 21st century.'
BCE also operates schools in Paignton, Taunton, Yeovil, Cricklade, Yelverton and Plymouth.
