Oaklands School Nominated for the ISA SEND School of the Year Award 2025

We're delighted to have been nominated in the Independent Schools Association (ISA) SEND School of the Year category of the ISA Awards 2025.

The Independent Schools Association (ISA) is the registered charity that represents the Heads of 770 of the UK’s best independent schools. Founded in 1878, ISA is one of the oldest organisations for the heads of independent schools. ISA works closely with Headteachers and with other professional bodies to promote excellence in independent education and seeks to influence the national educational debate on behalf of their members, while promoting independence and choice.

One of three Finalists in the ISA SEND School of the Year, we have been able to demonstrate how we recognise and celebrate inclusive practices within our school and empower our pupils. We have shown how we recognise each child’s needs, the imaginative support we have put in to match those needs, how we monitor progress and how we help our staff to have an input into each child’s development. We have also shown clear outcomes for our pupils and shared some of our pupils’ success stories that demonstrate our innovative approach to SEND education.

Since opening in September 2023, we have secured an Outstanding rating for personal development in our first Ofsted inspection (June 2024). We have also forged innovative, inclusive learning pathways - blending therapeutic programmes, community partnerships, and experiential trips like visits to the Oceanarium in Bournemouth, to ensure every pupil thrives. This award underlines our school’s unwavering commitment to pioneering high-quality, holistic SEN provision that truly transforms lives.

“We’re absolutely thrilled be a Finalist in the ISA SEND School of the Year category of the ISA Awards 2025,” said Sir Peter Birkett, Founder of Oaklands School. “In just two years, we’ve built a school where every pupil feels valued, supported, and empowered - a place where learning truly is an adventure. This nomination recognises our innovation, achievement and positive impact in SEN education. It also acknowledges the dedication of our fantastic team, families, and the entire community who have championed our journey, and inspire us to continue raising standards”

The ISA 2025 Awards Ceremony will take place during the ISA’s Autumn Study Conference, which takes place at Chesford Grange Hotel in Kenilworth, Warwickshire from 11th – 12th November.

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