Hartlepool Free School

Hartlepool Free School, part of the Make It Different Trust, opened in September 2024 and is dedicated to providing high-quality education for students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) conditions. With a current enrolment of 19 pupils and a capacity of 64, the school aims to create a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and resilience through its core values of kindness, a growth mindset, resilience, and personal responsibility.

The school's curriculum focuses on outdoor activities, nature, animal care, and horticulture, reflecting its commitment to holistic education. Located in Golden Flatts, an area designed for outdoor leisure, Hartlepool Free School also aims to serve as a community hub, allowing local groups to use its facilities outside school hours. This approach encourages community engagement and supports the development of strong relationships with families and local organisations.

Principal Tristan Keates emphasises the importance of collaboration with parents and the community to ensure that every child reaches their full potential. The school is committed to adapting its provision to meet the changing needs of its students and their families.