Broadstones School is an independent special school based in Stockport, catered to pupils aged 13-16 that struggle to succeed in mainstream, traditional school settings. At nurtureuk, we had the privilege of visiting Broadstones School recently and were impressed by the passion of the staff to meet their young people’s needs via non-traditional methods.
"To Educate, Motivate and Inspire Young People to Achieve in a Nurturing Environment”
– Broadstones School motto
School context: Broadstones School
Broadstones is a small school spread across multiple bases. All pupils who attend the school must have an EHCP (education, health and care plan). Many of the pupils on roll have had a traumatic history with education. They have often experienced severe social, emotional or mental health issues which disrupted their education to the point of complete disengagement or school absenteeism.
Pupils come to Broadstones School for a fresh start. Alongside core academic subjects, the pupils choose between vocational studies such as construction, music, art, or hair and beauty in their on-site salon. A tailored programme is designed for each pupil in order to meet their needs, engage them in learning, and motivate them to find their path post-16.
The impact of nurture at Broadstones School
Nurture is rooted in every aspect of the school. Walking round the site, there were displays on every wall referencing the nurture principles. They have created a truly safe space for pupils with all sorts of complex needs, built on trusted relationships with staff. Pupils expressed how different Broadstones feels to other schools that have failed them in the past; here, they feel understood and supported.
Hear from the pupils themselves – and parents and staff – on the transformative impact nurture has had on their lives.