Admissions

At William Henry Smith School, our admissions process is thoughtful, supportive, and personalised, designed to ensure the best fit for each learner.

Specialist Support for Students with SEMH Needs (Ages 5–19).

The William Henry Smith School & Sixth Form welcomes students between the ages of 5-19 years, who have an Education, Health and Care plan (EHC) which makes reference to social, emotional and mental health issues. We offer day and residential placements, focusing on supportive transitions, with a thorough admissions process involving both school visits and home meetings.

If the EHC plan process is underway, our policy also allows us to make an admission. We also cater for additional complex needs, most commonly ADHD, Autism Spectrum Conditions and specific learning differences.

Admissions Policy Admissions Policy

Our admissions process

Referral

Having received a referral and the relevant paperwork from a Local Authority, we endeavour to expedite the process; often a student will already have had significant time out of school and it will be in their best interests to engage with education as soon as is practically possible. The whole process involves both parties feeling that the 'match' is right and that our provision can meet the student's needs.

School visit

They will then be invited to look around the school, followed by a meeting in the home setting to discuss their visit. After this, our Head of Commissioning will review all the information. From the outset, our Admissions Support Lead and Family Team are at the heart of the process.

Review & Assessment

Our Head of Commissioning reviews all gathered information to ensure that we can meet the student's unique needs. Our Admissions Support Lead and Family Team are involved from the start, fostering a supportive relationship with the family.

Transition planning

Whether it is a day place or residential place, we work closely with families to ensure a smooth transition. Travel distance is considered for both day and residential placements.

Offer & agreement

When a place is offered at WHSS, parents or carers will be asked to sign an Admissions Agreement outlining our policies, practices, and expectations.

Extra information

Fees
The referring Local Authority is responsible for paying all school fees as defined by the National Contract for placement of students. All provision described within our prospectus, including our therapeutic interventions and residential holidays, are covered by the payment of the fees.

Transport
The Local Authority makes transport arrangements for students attending the school. At WHSS, we also have school vehicles, which provide transport for students during the school day; these may be used to transport students to offsite learning activities, educational visits and key working sessions.

Parents/Carers
Admissions to our school are determined by a Local Authority's Placements Team in consultation with our Head of Commissioning. All students admitted have undergone a statutory assessment and have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC).

As a parent/carer, you have the right to express a preference to your Local Authorities 'Local Offer' as to the most suitable school for your child. If you think the The William Henry Smith School & Sixth Form would meet your child’s needs or you would like to learn more about us, please complete the Admissions Contact Form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Admissions contact form Admissions contact form

We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.
We change what's possible.

Explore more

Success stories

Real-life journeys of transformation and resilience—from students overcoming SEMH challenges to achieving academic milestones and personal growth. Let their stories inspire and show what’s possible at WHSS.

Learning groups

Structured, supportive learning environments tailored to each student's unique needs. Our small-group approach fosters personalised learning, peer connection, and academic progress.

Term dates

Stay informed with key term dates and school calendar highlights. Plan ahead with clarity around term starts, holidays, and important school events.

Sixth form

For ages 16–19, our specialist Sixth Form offers a blend of academic courses, vocational training, and life skills to help students achieve independence and prepare for adulthood.

The Woodrow Therapy Centre

A nurturing hub offering therapy and wellbeing support—covering SEMH, speech, language, wellbeing and more—integrated into each student's journey to boost self-esteem, communication, and emotional resilience.

Residential care

Our residential provision offers safe, nurturing overnight care and routines that extend learning into every part of the day. With structured support, personalised routines, and rich activities, students gain confidence.

Unlocking potential. Changing lives.

William Henry Smith School provides outstanding specialist education and care for children and young people aged 5–19 with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted, our nurturing and trauma-informed approach helps every learner thrive. Contact us today to find out how we can support your child or make a referral.