St John's Catholic Specialist School, Boston Spa

St John's Catholic Specialist School, located in Wetherby, Leeds, is a non-maintained special school that has been serving children for over 150 years. The school caters to a diverse range of needs, including those who are hearing impaired, autistic, or have complex sensory and communication challenges. With a capacity for 90 pupils, currently 82 students are enrolled, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The school offers both day and residential placements, fostering a nurturing environment that promotes personal development and emotional wellbeing.

The curriculum at St John's is designed to support individual learning needs through small class sizes and specialist teaching. Pupils are encouraged to build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, with a strong emphasis on Catholic values of respect, compassion, and integrity. The school also provides a comprehensive therapeutic support system, including audiology, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy, ensuring that students receive holistic care.

Community involvement is a key aspect of life at St John's, with parents encouraged to engage through initiatives like the Friends of St John's. The school maintains open communication with families via newsletters and the Seesaw platform, allowing parents to stay informed about their child's progress and school activities.