Bowden House School

The school operates under a 'We-Not-Me' ethos, aiming to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing environment that improves school attendance and raises student attainment. It emphasizes a 'whole school approach' where teaching and care staff work cooperatively to meet individual needs, build self-esteem, and help students develop positive relationships. The school is committed to educating the 'mind and the heart,' encouraging students to take responsibility for their actions and plan for their future.

The school delivers an educational programme similar to mainstream schools, covering subjects such as English, Maths, Science, ICT, Art & Design, and Physical Education. It offers a strong focus on vocational pathways, including on-site training in motor mechanics and planned extensions into construction and plumbing. Students also engage in Oracy, RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education), and topic-based learning, with access to SAM Learning for remote education.

The school employs a multi-disciplinary team to support students, including a Speech & Language Therapist (on-site three days a week) and a full-time CAMHS Psychotherapist. A Learning Support Consultant is employed for three half-days per week to assist Looked After Children (LAC) with literacy skills and learning strategies. Additionally, every student is assigned an academic tutor and a keyworker to monitor progress and provide consistent support.

Bowden House School is a specialist, weekly residential school for boys aged 9 to 16+ who have Statements of Special Educational Needs or Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans. It supports students with complex social, emotional, and mental health difficulties and additional learning needs. Referrals are managed through Local Authorities, and the school requires active commitment from parents and carers, as well as compatibility with the school's learning and residential environments. Prospective families are encouraged to visit the school and meet with the Student & Family Co-ordinator prior to formal referral.

The school operates on a termly basis, with a full Governing Body meeting each term. Detailed term dates and the annual school calendar are available for download from the school's website.

Located in Seaford, East Sussex, the campus includes residential and educational buildings, common rooms, and grounds. On-site vocational facilities feature a custom-built garage for motor mechanics, including car and motorbike restoration. The school also provides dedicated spaces for classroom learning, and plans are in place to extend vocational provision to include construction, painting, decorating, and plumbing.

The school offers a range of activities designed to enrich student experiences and foster a love of learning, including food technology, expressive arts, and drama. The 'Adventure Centre for Education' (ACE) provides outdoor experiences, and the school is developing a dedicated forestry provision. Students also participate in off-site projects, such as the Brighton & Hove Albion football reintegration project and life skills courses with the London Fire Brigade.