Welcome to Dovecote School

Dovecote School is a mixed, specialist school for students with a range of needs including autism, ADHD, processing and communication difficulties, often alongside learning or mental wellbeing challenges and low confidence due to previous negative educational experiences.

Dovecote School provides specialist education and therapeutic support for students aged 5–18 with a range of needs, including autism and anxiety and whose needs have not been met in mainstream provision.

We deliver a therapeutic curriculum that builds pride, resilience and aspiration, helping pupils develop independence and become active members of their community.

Every child is recognised as an individual. Our skilled teachers, therapists and professionals work together to create personalised programmes that build on each student’s strengths and interests. With small classes of no more than eight, pupils access a broad, engaging curriculum leading to nationally recognised qualifications.

“Since joining Dovecote, I attend full time and have made major progress in my confidence … the small class sizes have helped me tons because it gives you time to actually get to know your teachers, almost as if they’re your friends.” Student

Our approach includes outdoor learning, social-emotional development, and therapeutic strategies embedded throughout the day. We work in close partnership with families to ensure students feel safe, supported and able to flourish, leaving with the skills and confidence for a successful future.

The school site includes a farm, forest school and horticulture opportunities.

Dedicated Family Inclusion and Wellbeing Team to support transitions between home and school and embed consistent strategies.

Needs-led, therapeutic curriculum, specifically developed to overcome barriers to learning and personal progress.

Don’t take our word for it...

“My daughter is very happy at Dovecote. She gave it a score of 100/10 last week. She is talking about her day when she comes home, sharing her happy experiences.”

Parent

NAS Advanced
Accreditation

Dovecote School has been awarded Autism Accreditation by the NAS, providing reassurance that we have been externally recognised for our autism-aware practice.