Journey Through Hospital School

When a pupil is admitted to Hospital School, a member of the team reaches out often our Transition and Inclusion Lead. This initial meeting is friendly, informal, and child-centered, aiming to build trust with the pupil and their family.

Key Goals:

• Assess emotional and physical readiness for learning.
• Gather background information to inform next steps.

• Reassure the pupil and family that education will continue in a supportive, flexible way.
• Begin building trust.
  

‘We see firsthand that learning can only begin when a child’s mental and emotional wellbeing is prioritised’

Once our pupil is comfortable, a more comprehensive assessment is carried out. A process that is designed specifically to help staff better understand the needs of individual pupils. Guided by healthcare professionals our initial assessment is followed by carefully target setting to create a personalised programme for learning and support. 

This includes:

Academic Assessments

• GL Academic Assessments in Reading Age, Spelling & Comprehension

• Dyslexia & Dyscalculia Screener
• DASH (Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting)
• Assessments in Maths, English & Science

Personal Development Assessments

• Family Tree (Intervention Identification)
• PASS Assessment (Pupils Attitude to Self and School)

An individual feedback report is then generated and shared with staff, parents, healthcare professionals, the home school and any other external provider working with the pupil.

Lessons from a Hospital School Setting

We see firsthand the powerful connection between a child’s health, wellbeing, and their ability to access education. it’s only when we prioritise their emotional safety, mental health, and physical wellbeing that true learning becomes possible. Our classrooms don’t always have four walls. Sometimes, they have heart monitors, IV poles and teddy bears. 

‘Courage is forever part of our curriculum’

While our setting may be unique, supporting the whole child means creating environments where they feel seen, heard and supported, whether they’re in a hospital bed, a classroom or community environment. 

Our teachers are skilled and equipped to adapt their teaching methods constantly, some days may be high-energy, others may require calm or rest.

‘Your Learning, Your Way’

Our unique setting offers a unique service to our pupils, starting with our ambitious curriculum coverage, which is carefully planned to shape pupils in our three Cs of Character, Currency and Community. 

Our Relational Behaviour Approach incorporates the principles of Positive Behaviour Support from an Attachment Aware, Trauma Informed (AATI) perspective. Developed by our Specialists in the Trust (SIT Team) pupils are supported to: Connect, Co-regulate and Co-reflect.

This comprehensive approach ensures that each pupil receives the tailored support they need to thrive academically and personally, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and wellbeing.

Bridging Health and Education – The Support Circle

We’re proud to be at the forefront of integrating health and education. By working collaboratively with healthcare providers and other external services, we ensure that our pupils receive holistic support tailored to their unique needs. 

This partnership not only enhances educational outcomes but also promotes the overall wellbeing of our young people.

Together, we are changing lives, fostering resilience, and creating pathways to success! 

Everyone works as a team around the child. We don’t separate care from curriculum; they go hand in hand. 

‘Wellbeing is not an add-on — it’s a prerequisite for learning’

“You Did It!”

As our pupil’s discharge approaches, the focus shifts:

• Preparing a transition plan for the home school or alternative setting.
• Ensuring the pupil feels proud, not behind.
• Providing regular communication with the family and giving reassurance and support throughout the transition process.

‘These incredible young people are not only facing significant health challenges – they are also choosing to continue their learning, with resilience and hope every single day. It’s nothing short of inspirational!’

Staying in Touch

We maintain contact with our families and the home school after discharge, especially if there are long-term health implications. This ensures the child’s reintegration is smooth and that the home school feels empowered to support them.

Hospital School is more than education – it’s a lifeline of normalcy, self-esteem, and hope during a time of uncertainty. From that first gentle ‘hello’ to a confident farewell, the journey is child-led, holistic, compassionate and collaborative.

To our pupils: you are the definition of courage.

To our families and NHS colleagues: thank you for walking beside them.

To our staff: you make the impossible possible.

‘Here’s to celebrating the quiet courage that often goes unseen, but never unfelt.’

Their Journey Continues…