Head Teacher

Aurora Hanley School
Welcome to our Special Needs School in Bucknall, Staffordshire

Welcome from the Headteacher

Here at Aurora Hanley, we know that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed.That is why we endeavour to provide an inclusive learning environment for all our students to enjoy, thrive and grow throughout their academic career.By the time they leave us, every student is on their way to achieving their own goals – whether that is by developing vital life skills, or gaining specific academic and vocational qualifications.We believe that by providing the right support and building positive relationships, we can support everyone to access opportunities that have previously been denied.I look forward to welcoming you into the Aurora Hanley community soon.

Julie Martin, Headteacher, Aurora Hanley

Welcome from the Principal

Welcome to the Aurora Hanley School family. We pride ourselves on being a warm, open and friendly environment in which young people flourish. We are recognised as an outstanding provision, not just for the education delivered but for the social experience, emotional coaching and life skills development provided.We are also a sister school to our newly opened Summerfields school in Cheshire. Both schools reflect our belief that all our unique individuals need to feel accepted, understood, listened to and supported to achieve lifelong learning.To be prepared, not just academically, but socially and emotionally for the challenges that life brings. I hope you enjoy your time with us and the journey you will undertake.

Tracy Whitehurst, Principal, Aurora Hanley and Aurora Summerfields

Our School

Aurora Hanley is an independent specialist school for young people aged 6 to 19, who may face difficulties as a result of complex communication needs typically associated with Autism spectrum conditions.

Many of our students have sensory issues and high levels of anxiety that affect their ability to cope in mainstream settings, creating difficulties that can impact negatively on their emotional wellbeing, behaviour and ability to participate fully in education.

At Aurora Hanley, we help every young person to re-engage with learning and enjoy school life.

With specialist teaching and integrated therapeutic support, small classes and a nurturing approach, we give students a framework for breaking down barriers to learning.

Although we cater for ages 6 - 19, due to the varying needs and academic levels of our pupils, some may move on at different points if there is a more appropriate pathway for them.  Some pupils may move on to College at 16 if that is the most appropriate route to achieve their goals.

Our Facilities

Aurora Hanley is located near the heart of Stoke City, in the residential area of Bucknall.

The school site consists of a new, two-story building for older students and a separate primary school building. All our rooms are bright, modern and sensitively designed for children and young people who struggle in larger mainstream environments.

Facilities include:

· Specialist classrooms for science, art and cooking

· Break-out spaces and a sensory room

· Clinical and therapeutic facilities

· Fully-equipped kitchen

· Safe outdoor spaces

Education at Aurora Hanley extends into the local community and city, giving young people opportunities to learn practical skills in everyday environments whenever they are ready.

Our Curriculum

Aurora Hanley offers a broad, balanced curriculum with a flexible timetable designed around each student, recognising their individual abilities, interests and needs.

All activities are based on personalised goals to ensure they are engaging, meaningful and achievable for everyone. Students are encouraged to be actively involved in school life, by making choices, contributing to their own programmes and sharing ideas regularly.

Individual behaviour management plans help our students develop positive self-regulation and coping strategies, facilitating their learning and creating a positive school experience for everyone.

Our focus on behavioural management is supported via our Clinical Psychology teams, who work together with students and their families to explore and develop individual strengths and aspirations.

Our other therapeutic provision includes speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, with our clinical staff working in conjunction with teaching and support staff to provide holistic support for every student.

Our Outcomes

EDUCATION including analysis of achievement and destinations data.

Exam Results 2019 - 2020

· 1 student gained a grade 9 Physics i-GCSE and a GCSE chemistry Grade 7, and English Lit GCSE Grade 7. He also achieved an A level in advanced Maths A*. (Pupil had previously been out of school for 3 years, gained English Language Grade 7 last year and Maths GCSE Grade 9 last year).

· 3 students gained an Art GCSE- 2 Grade 4’s, 1 grade 3).

· 4 students passed English functional skills level 1.

· 1 student gained an English Literature Grade 7 GCSE.

· 3 students achieved GCSE Maths Grade 5.

· 2 students gained a Functional Skills Level 2 qualification.

· 3 students gained a BTEC applied science Level 2 Merit (equivalent to GCSE Grade B/6), 1 student gained a Level 1 pass (equiv. to grade 1-3 GCSE)