A SPECIAL Educational Needs (SEN) school in Bridgwater has been given a prestigious award.

Dovecote School, which opened in September 2022 for students aged 5-18 with a range of social, emotional and mental health needs, has been awarded the School of Excellence award.

The school was given the award by Thrive, an organisation which trains teachers and other education professionals to support the social and emotional development of children and young people.

Dovecote School was recognised in particular for its work to support the wellbeing of its pupils.

Leah Roberts, Family, Inclusion and Wellbeing Coordinator at Dovecote School, said: “Gaining the Thrive School of Excellence award upholds our commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of our whole school community and is a wonderful way to end our second academic year.

“We knew we wanted to use Thrive when we opened our doors in September 2022.

"We had experienced the positive impact of Thrive in a previous setting and understood the impact it has for young people with barriers to learning.

"We knew having Thrive at the heart of our curriculum was a key part of our work to get students ready to learn.”

Dovecote School staff were presented with the School of Excellence award plaque by Anna Smee, Managing Director of Thrive, at a celebration event last week.

Anna Smee said: “Dovecote School is an extraordinary place which puts the wellbeing of pupils at the very centre of their work through their use of the Thrive Approach. This award is recognition of that amazing work.”

Thrive has been working in partnership with educators and organisations to help young people feel safe, supported and ready to learn since 1994.

It focuses on building secure relationships and providing positive experiences, with its approach proven to improve behaviour, attendance and learning outcomes.