Welcome to South Somerset Partnership School

I am incredibly proud to have worked in South Somerset Alternative Provision since 2012, initially as a Head of Centre before becoming Deputy and then, in 2016, Headteacher at South Somerset Partnership School.

Throughout my time in South Somerset I have had the privilege of seeing so many children and young people grow and develop, accessing opportunities and support in order to be successful as they progress into other educational establishments and on into adult life.  At SSPS we place great importance on the principles of a Quality Nurture Provision ‘This is a safe place and the adults are in charge’.  We subscribe wholly to the ethos within the Thrive Assessment Framework which helps us to identify developmental gaps and provides activities to rebuild brain pathways. It places connection, compassion, structure and relationships at the heart of all that we do.

Outcomes for our pupils show that this is a successful strategy. 100% of our Year 11 pupils achieved at least one GCSE in English or Maths, with the majority achieving in both subjects. We have utilised the ‘AP Transition’ funding provided by the DfE to work with our pupils over the summer, ensuring they successfully move into post 16 provision. 100% of our pupils who were able to access assessment made progress in their social and emotional development.

Last year, SSPS applied for ‘Thrive Ambassador’ status, currently we have been awarded Excellence in Reparative, Environment and Right Time. We are hoping to add to these until we have achieved Excellence in all 5 areas and can be deemed a Thrive ‘School of Excellence’. One of our previously commissioned cohorts ‘Project Fusion’ won’ Teacher of the Year’ at the South West Community Awards in May and we have also been nominated for the BBC SouthWest Radio ‘Keyworkers of the Year’ award.

Our most recent Ofsted report stated:

“You make sure that expectations are high. Lessons are about learning and trying your best. The learning environment is filled with positive prompts and messages to pupils.”

“You expect learning to be interesting, relevant and fun. As a result, pupils learn to apply their skills while doing practical activities that they enjoy.”

Demonstrating our absolute commitment to ensuring all our pupils are able to access a high-quality education, regardless of what has gone before.

Our vision remains strong; in the words of the poet Maya Angelou:

‘My mission is not that you survive, but that you thrive with passion, compassion, humour and style’

With very best wishes

Jo Simons

Headteacher

If you have concerns about the welfare of a child, please call

Somerset Direct on 0300 123 2224

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