Snowfields Academy, located in Maidstone, Kent, is a special school catering for pupils aged 11 to 18 with autism spectrum disorder. The school opened in September 2020 and has since expanded its enrollment, with a second site opening in September 2022. The academy is part of the Leigh Academies Trust and currently serves 176 pupils, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care plan. The recent inspection conducted on June 27 and 28, 2023, rated the school as outstanding in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
Pupils at Snowfields Academy express pride in their school, feeling accepted and comfortable within a community that values and celebrates individual differences. The school’s motto, where nurture meets aspiration, reflects its commitment to fostering both academic and personal growth. From the outset, pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for future employment, while also developing self-understanding, confidence, and resilience to navigate life with autism. The thoughtfully designed environment includes resources such as trampolines and an on-site working farm, which aid in self-regulation and enhance the learning experience.
The school emphasizes core values of kindness, hard work, communication, safety, and happiness, which are well understood and upheld by the pupils. This creates a culture of respect and support among students. Leaders and staff maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, meticulously organizing the curriculum and employing highly skilled teachers who are experts in supporting pupils with autism. The teaching methods engage pupils effectively, ensuring that individual targets remain aspirational and achievable.
Pupils benefit from a range of additional support, particularly in literacy, and have access to various staff and therapists with relevant expertise. This collaborative approach helps pupils overcome barriers to learning associated with their special educational needs. The focus on social communication development is a key aspect of the curriculum, enabling pupils to better understand themselves and their surroundings.
Attendance at Snowfields Academy is notably high, with pupils eager to come to school, including those who previously struggled with regular attendance. This is attributed to the trusting relationships built between staff and pupils, fostering a warm and supportive school culture. Upon leaving the academy, pupils are well-prepared for their next life stage, encouraged to aim high and supported through comprehensive career guidance.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs that allow pupils to explore their interests and talents. The weekly celebration assembly is a highlight, where pupils recognize each other's achievements, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The introduction of a reward system for positive behavior further motivates pupils, contributing to their exceptional behavior and attitudes.
Staff at Snowfields Academy feel valued and supported, benefiting from numerous professional development opportunities. The culture of mutual support among staff enhances the overall effectiveness of the school. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address the specific vulnerabilities of pupils. The school’s curriculum also includes lessons on managing risks, ensuring pupils are well-equipped to navigate various challenges.
Overall, Snowfields Academy exemplifies excellence in providing a nurturing and aspirational environment for pupils with autism, ensuring their academic and personal development while preparing them for future success.
