Newhaven

Newhaven School is a trauma-informed community dedicated to the vision of 'Trust, Restore, Achieve.' It aims to rebuild trust with students who have experienced trauma or difficulties in the education system by prioritizing safety, psychological thinking, and student voice. The school celebrates diversity and strives to be an inclusive environment where students are challenged to realize their dreams and gain the skills necessary for adult life.

The curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Maths, Science, Humanities, and PE, alongside Art, Design & Technology, and Performing Arts. The school offers a KS3 Foundation Course, a Sixth Form curriculum, and Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG). Additionally, the school provides a Supported Internship Programme and RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) to prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Newhaven School aims for students to achieve success in traditional exams and courses, as well as in life skills and experiences. The school prepares students for future opportunities in education, training, and employment, and supports them in developing and maintaining rich relationships. Destinations and academic results are monitored to ensure students are prepared for successful, responsible citizenship.

The school is a trauma-informed community that prioritizes neurodivergence and equity-informed practice. It focuses on rebuilding trust, social communication skills, and emotional regulation to help students succeed. Support is integrated into the curriculum and school policies, with dedicated staff and clinical psychologists working to ensure students feel safe and supported as individuals.

Newhaven School operates across four distinct sites, each with specific referral pathways. Newhaven Gardens provides education for students in years 7-11 who have been permanently excluded or are part of a managed move, coordinated via the Royal Borough of Greenwich Fair Access Panel. The Newhaven Educational Support Team (NEST) serves secondary-aged students (11-16) struggling with mainstream education due to mental health conditions, with referrals managed by a medical needs panel. King’s Park is a specialist provision for years 7-14 for students with ASD and complex mental health needs, with admissions determined by a termly panel involving the local authority and SEND services.

The school operates on a six-term academic year. The 2025-2026 academic year begins in September 2025, with terms typically running from September to July, including scheduled half-term breaks and INSET days for staff training. The 2026-2027 academic year follows a similar structure, concluding in July 2027. Detailed term dates, including specific INSET and twilight session dates, are published on the school website.

Newhaven School operates across four sites: Newhaven Gardens, the Newhaven Educational Support Team (NEST), the King’s Park Campus, and a Hospital School Room located on the Safari Ward at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. These sites are equipped to support the school's diverse student body, providing specialized environments for students with mental health needs, ASD, and those requiring alternative educational provision. The school also utilizes a library and various subject-specific spaces for its curriculum.

Students have access to a range of activities outside the classroom, including Forest School and links with Ahoy College. The school also maintains a Music Action Plan and engages in creative projects, such as the Smile of Hope Kart Build and collaborations with local theatres like the Tramshed and Greenwich Theatre. These opportunities are designed to support student engagement and personal development.