Spark Vale Academy is a therapeutic and trauma-informed independent special school for pupils with autism, ADHD and social, emotional and mental health needs. We believe every young person deserves to feel safe, understood and valued before they can learn and grow.
Our approach is centred on relationships, well-being and belonging. We take time to understand each pupil’s story and work alongside them, at their pace, through personalised teaching, therapeutic support and gentle, consistent structure.
We help pupils reconnect with learning, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive in school and in life. At Spark Vale, every learner is supported to belong, grow and thrive.
Our Core Offer
The B.E.S.T Code helps us to care for ourselves, for each other and for our school community. It is part of how we create a calm, safe space where pupils feel respected and supported.
Be Kind
We meet one another with gentleness. We notice feelings, listen well and respond with care.
Everyone Matters
Each person belongs here. Every voice is valued. We make space for difference and individuality.
Stay Safe
Safety is emotional as well as physical. We work together to create an environment where people can relax, learn and be themselves.
Try Your Best
We recognise that effort looks different for everyone. We celebrate small steps, resilience and courage in the learning journey.
Ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for new students. Each stage, from initial referral to final transition planning, is designed to make the experience as seamless as possible.
The local authority refers the young person to Spark Vale Academy (SVA). If the referral is accepted, the SENDCO or Assistant will arrange a school visit for the parents, carers, and the young person.
Parents, carers, and the young person receive a personalised tour of the SVA site, tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.
Following the visit, the SENDCO or SEND Assistant will inform the local authority of their decision. Once verified by the local authority, a formal letter of admission is sent to the parents or guardians, confirming acceptance at SVA and scheduling an admissions appointment.
At the admissions meeting, the family will meet with one of the representatives (SENDCO, SEND Assistant, Attendance Officer, Safeguarding Lead, or Inclusion Lead). The student’s start date and individual transition plan, including hours, will be confirmed, ensuring a smooth integration into SVA.
We strongly believe in collaborating closely with parents and caregivers to help their child achieve their full potential.
The Spark Spirit
We create a place where everyone is seen, heard and valued. We build trust, celebrate difference and help each other feel part of the Spark Vale family. Whether you’re a student, a teacher or a visitor , you matter here.
Learning looks different for everyone and that’s okay. At Spark Vale, we focus on progress over perfection. We support each other to keep trying, reflect on our journey and build the skills we need for life.
We help every learner find their strengths and imagine a positive future. Through real-world experiences, life skills, therapy and encouragement, we support students and staff to thrive ,not just in school, but in life.
Our mission at Spark Vale is to empower our students to thrive, not only in spite of their differences but because of them. We honour diversity and inclusion whilst fostering a supportive environment where every child, regardless of their SEN status, can aim high and pursue their dreams.
Katie James
Meet the passionate team behind our learners success.
Spark Vale fosters a vibrant culture that values collaboration, innovation and personal growth. Join us in creating impactful solutions while enjoying a supportive and dynamic work environment.
School policies are essential for creating a safe and productive learning environment. They provide clear expectations and guidelines that help foster respect and responsibility among students, staff, parents and all stakeholders.
Vision, Mission, Values
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and it's our priority.
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Classes are structured into engaging sessions led by experienced tutors, combining interactive activities, exam preparation, and skill-building exercises to make learning enjoyable and effective.
Our programme focuses on developing essential study skills, mindset, and confidence, easing the transition to secondary school and preparing students for changes to learning styles.
Our After School Clubs are conveniently held at various local schools, making it easy for parents to access and ensuring minimal disruption to their daily routines.
The After School Club is tailored for students in Year 3 to Year 6, preparing them for their SATs exams and fostering a love for learning.
Our After School Clubs primarily focus on Maths and English, providing comprehensive preparation for the SATs exams.
We maintain small class sizes, with a maximum of 15 students per class, ensuring personalised attention and a collaborative learning environment.
No, there are no long-term commitments. Parents have the flexibility to enrol their child on a month-by-month basis, providing convenience and peace of mind. There’s a 30 day cancellation period. Card payments are taken monthly and run from September - June.
Students benefit from improved academic performance, enhanced study skills, increased confidence, and a smooth transition to secondary school, setting them up for success in their educational journey.
Our tutors are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in education. They undergo rigorous training and hold relevant qualifications to deliver effective instruction tailored to students' needs.
Enrolling your child is easy. Simply click here to enrol.
Our After School Club is affordably priced at £55 per month, offering exceptional value for comprehensive SATs preparation and academic support.
Yes, students can join Little Sparks at any time during the academic year, subject to availability. We welcome new students and ensure they receive the necessary support to catch up and integrate seamlessly into the programme.
