ISP School Teynham
ISP School Teynham is a specialist independent school that forms part of the Polaris Education community. Polaris Education is dedicated to supporting young people with complex needs, offering tailored education and care solutions to help them thrive. As part of this network, ISP School Teynham benefits from extensive expertise, resources, and a commitment to delivering high-quality education for students aged 11 to 16 with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, as well as communication, interaction, cognition, and learning difficulties.
With a focus on personal development, life skills, and future employability, ISP School Teynham prepares students not just for academic success but also for independence and resilience beyond the classroom. The school’s trauma-informed and attachment-aware practices create a supportive environment where every student is valued and encouraged to flourish.
Educational Approach
ISP School Teynham follows a trauma-informed and attachment-aware approach, recognising that students may have experienced difficulties in mainstream education. The school places a strong emphasis on creating a safe and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.
A key aspect of the school’s approach is individualised learning, where each student has a personalised education plan tailored to their specific needs, strengths, and aspirations. The school integrates therapeutic support within the curriculum, ensuring that students not only progress academically but also develop essential emotional resilience and social skills.
Staff at ISP School Teynham work closely with students to build strong, trusting relationships, which helps to improve engagement, attendance, and overall well-being. The school fosters an ethos of respect, responsibility, and ambition, helping students to overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential.
Curriculum
The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that is adapted to suit the needs of each student.
Academic subjects include:
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, and Science, with opportunities to achieve GCSE, Functional Skills, or Entry Level qualifications.
- Vocational Learning: Land-based studies, construction, and food technology, offering practical skills and real-world experience.
- Personal Development: Employability skills, social communication, and life skills to prepare students for further education, training, or employment.
- Creative and Physical Education: A range of activities designed to support well-being, teamwork, and self-expression.
In addition to these subjects, the school provides opportunities for students to gain nationally recognized qualifications, such as City & Guilds Food and Hygiene awards and AQA Unit Awards. ISP School Teynham’s curriculum is designed to be flexible and supportive, ensuring that all students can progress at a pace that suits them.
The school also benefits from an integrated Speech and Language therapy team, which works alongside teaching staff to support students with communication and interaction difficulties.
Facilities and Environment
ISP School Teynham is located on a farm setting, providing a peaceful and structured environment that helps students feel safe and focused. The school’s facilities are designed to support both academic and vocational learning, including:
- Specialist Classrooms: Equipped for core subjects, practical learning, and therapy sessions.
- Outdoor Learning Spaces: Encouraging hands-on experiences in areas such as horticulture and land-based studies.
- Vocational Training Areas: Providing real-world learning experiences that prepare students for future employment opportunities.
The school’s setting plays a key role in creating a sense of calm and stability for students, which is essential for their engagement and progress. The rural location, combined with small class sizes and a supportive community, helps to foster a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable and motivated.
Staffing and Class Structure
ISP School Teynham prioritises small class sizes to ensure that each student receives the attention and support they need. The typical class structure consists of:
- A maximum of seven students per class to allow for personalised teaching and focused support.
- A dedicated class teacher responsible for delivering lessons and guiding students through their learning journey.
- A Progress Engagement Guide (PEG) assigned to each class, providing additional support and ensuring that students remain engaged and motivated.
The school’s multidisciplinary team includes experienced teachers, therapists, and support staff who work collaboratively to address each student’s individual needs. Staff undergo specialist training in trauma-informed practices, behaviour management, and SEMH support, ensuring that they are well-equipped to help students overcome challenges and achieve success.
Contact Information
For further details or to discuss potential placements, please contact:
Headteacher: Mrs Carole Cox
Address: Castlewood Farm, Conyer Road, Teynham, Kent, ME9 9EA
Telephone: 01795 523900
Email: carole.cox@ispschools.org.uk
Our Schools
Our schools provide specialist education for children and young people with a variety of complex needs.
Our mission is to provide each pupil with a tailored, diverse and appropriate education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning and encourages achievement.