The Birches School

URN: 105613 • Manchester M20 2XZ

Overview

Name
The Birches School
URN
105613
Type
Community special school
Phase
Not applicable
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
Does not apply
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
No
Ofsted rating
Good
Ranking score
54.0 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Rob O'Hara (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01614488895
Website
Visit
Address
Newholme Road, Manchester M20 2XZ

Summary

The Birches School is a community special school located in South Manchester, catering to 170 pupils with a range of complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). The school prides itself on creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported to reach their full potential. The dedicated multi-disciplinary team includes teaching staff, therapists, and support personnel, ensuring that each pupil receives tailored educational experiences.

The curriculum at The Birches is designed to promote independence, life skills, communication, and physical development, with a strong emphasis on creative subjects such as PE and music. Facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms, and outdoor play areas, which enhance the learning experience. The school also engages in community activities and educational visits, fostering connections beyond the classroom.

Collaboration with parents and families is central to the school's ethos, with regular events and opportunities for involvement. The Birches has been recognised for its commitment to quality education, achieving Outstanding ratings from Ofsted and Autism Accreditation from the National Autistic Society.

Key details

LA
Manchester
Age range
4 - 11
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Not applicable
Trust
Capacity
Pupils
170
Boys
115
Girls
55
FSM %
60.00
Open date
Close date
Last Ofsted
2024-05-15
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 170 115 55 60.00
2024-09-11 169 109 60 54.40
2023-09-11 156 110 46 47.40
2022-09-11 156 110 46 47.40
2021-09-11 155 109 46 44.50
2020-09-11 153 112 41 44.40

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