Elms School

Elms School is a foundation special school located in Dover, Kent, catering to 138 mixed-gender pupils with complex needs, primarily those with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The school serves a wide catchment area, welcoming students from Dover, Deal, Folkestone, Ashford, and surrounding villages. Many pupils join at various points from Year 1 to Year 11, often after experiencing challenges in traditional educational settings.

The school follows a nurturing ethos, emphasising high expectations and therapeutic approaches to support students in developing self-regulation, respect, and emotional understanding. The curriculum includes core subjects such as Maths, English, and Science, alongside creative options like Art and Design Technology, with opportunities for functional skills qualifications and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Elms School is committed to collaboration, being part of the KsENT Co-Operative Trust, and actively engages with parents to foster a supportive community.

Elms School employs trained staff in Restorative Approaches and the Thrive model, ensuring a trauma-informed environment. The school also manages its own transport, facilitating a smooth transition for students. With a focus on reducing the number of pupils not in education, employment, or training (NEETs), Elms School has a strong track record of helping students successfully progress to college courses.