The Sullivan Centre provides education for children and young people who cannot attend their usual school because of their medical or mental health needs.
A Venn Academy Trust School – Together we will… Venn is a pioneering academy trust, committed to building educational environments where all pupils are inspired to become lifelong learners who achieve the very highest standards possible. Collaborating with all partners, the Trust works with its unique settings to create world class learning experiences for all.

Sullivan Classroom – About Us

Teaching at The Sullivan Centre on site classrooms

Classes at The Sullivan Centre are taught in form groups depending on their Key Stage, ability and SEMH needs. There are five lessons in the school day with planned breaks in the morning, mid-day and afternoon.

On admission, an ‘All About Me’ profile is completed to gain an understanding of the pupils needs and interests. We work closely with the pupils’ home school, parents and other medical professionals to gather information relevant to the individual to enable a successful transition into the on site classrooms and all are part of the robust admissions process.

We teach pupils a broad range of National Curriculum subjects with an aim to ensure pupils have opportunities to continue with their learning whilst being supported to manage challenges around their medical needs and mental health.

In addition to the National Curriculum we provide our pupils with opportunities to develop life skills and Enterprise. This curriculum supports development in the core skills outlined in the SEND code of practice for employment, independent living, health and society and community participation.

Additionally, pupils have access to our therapeutic curriculum; Music, Art, Pet Therapy, Aromatherapy and Equestrian Therapy are the most commonly accessed. The therapeutic interventions are also complemented by the work our Life Coaches.

At the start of a pupils learning journey a baseline assessment is completed. This gives a clearly defined starting point to enable the teacher to build on prior learning and work towards a defined end point.

Comprehensive baselining information is meticulously gathered to ensure a well-rounded understanding of a student’s needs and abilities. This initial assessment includes a detailed review of the student’s academic history, current performance levels, and specific learning needs. Additionally, the Centre evaluates the eight key Executive Functioning skills: working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, planning, organization, self-monitoring, task initiation, and emotional regulation. This holistic approach enables staff to identify strengths and areas for development, tailor educational strategies to support the student’s unique profile, and effectively address both academic and personal challenges. By integrating these insights, The Sullivan Centre creates a personalised learning environment that optimally supports each pupil’s growth and success.