Shaftesbury High School

At Shaftesbury High School, we are dedicated to fostering the holistic development of our Key Stage 3 pupils. As a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), we recognise the unique challenges faced by our students and are committed to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment that supports their individual needs.

Our Vision: We aim to make learning meaningful and engaging, ensuring that every pupil feels valued and empowered. By implementing bespoke timetables tailored to each student’s strengths and areas for growth, we strive to provide personalised educational experiences that promote both academic and personal development.

Key Focus Areas:

1.      Whole Child Development: We believe in nurturing not just academic skills but also social, emotional, and behavioural growth. Our approach is designed to build resilience and confidence in our pupils, recognising that personal development is a cornerstone of their success.

2.      Strong Relationships: The relationships built between adults in school and pupils are vital to personal development. These trusted connections create a safe space for students to express themselves, seek support, and engage in their learning. When students feel understood and valued by the adults around them, they are more likely to thrive.

3.      Trauma-Informed Approaches: Understanding that many of our students may have experienced trauma, we employ trauma-informed practices that prioritise safety, trust, and empowerment. This approach helps us create a supportive environment where students can feel secure and ready to learn, allowing them to engage more fully in their education.

4.      Identification of Special Educational Needs (SEN): We prioritise the early identification of vulnerabilities and unrecognised SEN. By understanding each pupil’s unique profile, we can implement targeted interventions that support their learning journey.

5.      Interventions and Support: Our dedicated staff work collaboratively to design and deliver interventions that address specific needs, helping pupils to overcome barriers to learning and achieve their potential.

6.      Narrowing the Gaps: We are committed to closing the achievement gaps that our pupils face. Through tailored support and a focus on meaningful learning experiences, we aim to equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary for future success.

We are a community that believes in the potential of every child and their right to an education that meets their individual needs. Personal development is a strength of our department, as we understand that fostering self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills is vital for our students’ overall growth.

Together with parents and the child, we navigate the challenges ahead and work collaboratively to achieve the best possible outcomes. This ensures that every student leaves us with the confidence and skills to thrive in life.