Students are referred to Malden Oaks for a variety of reasons, either by Achieving for Children’s SEN Panel or by mainstream schools. Students may return to their mainstream school or transition on to another specialist placement. Some students may already have EHCPs, while others are referred to Malden Oaks whilst their needs are being identified and assessed. Whilst every student has their own story, what all students at Malden Oaks have in common is that they need a specialist, therapeutic, small and nurturing environment.

Through the Four As — Achievement, Altruism, Attachment and Autonomy — we strive to ensure all students leave our school happier, more resilient individuals with a better understanding of how to manage their emotions and enjoy positive mental health.

Examples of the Four As in Action:

• Planning, preparing and serving a communal lunch for the rest of the school to enjoy.

• Sharing a memory with a class teacher.

• Contributing ideas and suggestions for future educational visits and learning opportunities.

• Achieving a learning milestone, challenging yourself to try something new at lunch, or joining in with a game for the first time — we celebrate every achievement, big or small.

• At Malden Oaks, we believe every day, minute, and hour is a fresh start — opportunities for achievement, both inside and outside the classroom, are plentiful.

• We value learning beyond the classroom just as much as inside! In addition to traditional subjects, students enjoy Forest School, Pet Therapy, and a range of volunteering opportunities.

• Attachment and forming positive relationships are the keys to success. Students are taught in small groups of no more than five, with the same teacher, who has the time and space to really get to know them — their strengths and areas for development.

• Students experience autonomy every time they are able to make a good decision.

• You and your child will be invited to attend an initial meeting with our Head of School. This is a chance to look around, meet staff, and get an idea of what Malden Oaks is all about.

• The student will then attend four induction sessions, held at the end of the day when other students have left. These sessions allow the student to meet all staff members and become comfortable in the setting before starting full-time.

• Once induction sessions are completed, the student will begin in class and start forming attachments with their class teacher and peers. We build timetables gradually — a small steps approach helps students feel successful without becoming overwhelmed.

Malden Oaks strives to provide an inclusive environment for all students. We work closely with other professionals and, through regular review meetings, we are able to track progress efficiently and adapt support when needed.

If you have been referred to Malden Oaks and would like to know more about us, please see our Instagram account @surbitonmaldenoaks or phone Sarah Bann on 0203 137 2674.