How To Enrol
At Silver Birch School, we specialise in supporting children aged 11–16 years who have social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, autism, cognition and learning, or communication difficulties.
Initial Enquiries
We welcome initial enquiries from parents, carers, and professionals. If we believe we may be able to meet a child’s needs, we will arrange a visit to Silver Birch School. This visit provides an opportunity for the child and their parent/carer to:
- Learn more about our school environment and education offer
- Discuss the child’s individual needs with our staff
- Ask any questions about our provision and support
However, please note that referrals must come directly from the pupil’s local authority. Referrals can be made at any point throughout the year.
Assessment and Suitability
Before a place can be offered, we must be confident that we can meet the child’s needs effectively and that the placement will be successful for all concerned.
Once a place is agreed, the local authority will finalise the contract, fees, and transport arrangements (if appropriate).
Admission and Transition
A start date will be confirmed—always the earliest suitable date for the child to begin their journey with us. Every pupil follows a personalised Admission Programme, carefully designed to support a smooth and positive transition into school life.
For full details, please refer to our Admissions Policy, available on our website or from the school office.
The Referral Process
The process for referral to our school:
- the Local Authority makes a referral to our referrals and school admissions team. The referral will usually include a young person’s Education, Health and Care Plan EHCP) and other relevant documents or reports
- the team will review the documents with the Headteacher and establish if they feel the school can meet the child or young person’s needs
- the team will contact the local authority and parents/ carers to arrange for the Headteacher to conduct a home visit, where possible
- following a successful home visit, the team will contact the local authority and parents/ carers to invite the child or young person to visit the school
- during the visit, the child or young person will have a tour of the school with the Headteacher or designated staff member, meeting other staff members, as appropriate
- following a successful school visit, an offer of a placement with a suggested start date will be sent to the Local Authority upon acceptance of the placement by the Local Authority, parents/ carers will be advised
- a start date and transition arrangements will be confirmed.
