We Believe

that education is a great therapy

Our strap line is 'Rebuilding Lives through Education'. There is nothing quite like educational success for building self esteem and confidence to face life's future challenges.

that happy people make good learners

By placing an emphasis on the value of the student, and by looking for achievement wherever it can be found, the effects of long-term despair and loss of confidence can be reversed. We want our students to experience success at their appropriate level.

that qualifications are a skill for life

We believe strongly that pupils who have experienced difficulty with their schooling and/or home life need publicly recognised qualifications. To this end, we ensure that has the opportunity to leave with GCSEs and A Level Certificates. As well as a host of additional qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Edexcel Skills For Life and BTEC vocational awards.

that everyone is valued and respected

All students and staff bring a unique contribution to school life which we value highly. A past student said he didn’t like the label "special needs". However, it would be a very rare person who lives the life of three score years and ten without experiencing distress, loss of "normal" functioning, and the need for extra help and support. When these difficulties present themselves at a young age, often mainstream schooling breaks down and youngsters find themselves on a rollercoaster of failure and despair. It is this sort of special need which West Heath is designed to support. Often a short and intensive burst of support can reverse negative cycles and open up new opportunities for success.

in looking forwards not backwards

Although we strive to understand the emotional circumstances that cause difficulties to perpetuate, we believe in focusing on a much more positive future. Labels may point us in the right direction, but don't determine how far we fly.

in working with parents and carers

In our experience, success is achieved more quickly when we work in harmony with families and all pull in the same direction. We value our partnership with our families and seek to work with them to ensure their children's success. We offer support and training for all of our parents and carers.