About Westside School
A structured alternative provision supporting students aged 11–16 to rebuild confidence, achieve academically and move forward.
A Different Kind of School
At Westside, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the challenges they may have faced previously.
Many students join Westside after experiencing challenges in mainstream education or periods of disruption to their learning. Often, behaviour reflects unmet needs rather than a lack of ability or potential.
Our approach focuses first on understanding the individual student, including their experiences, strengths and challenges, before building the capacity needed to support them effectively.
By providing structure, consistency and strong adult support, we help students regain stability in their education and begin to move forward again.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a school environment where young people can:
Rebuild confidence in themselves and their abilities
Experience meaningful academic success
Develop resilience and independence
Prepare for further education, employment and adult life
We believe education has the power to transform lives, and we hold high expectations for every student who joins our school.
The Westside Way
At Westside, we believe in making the system work for the child, rather than expecting the child to adapt to a system that does not meet their needs.
Before a student joins the school, we work closely with families, previous schools and external professionals to build a clear understanding of their circumstances and support requirements.
This allows us to create a personalised learning plan, ensuring that students can continue their education while addressing any gaps in knowledge, confidence or engagement.
Our approach includes:
Small class sizes of no more than eight students
Highly qualified teaching staff
Strong pastoral support
Personalised learning pathways
Regular progress reviews and adjustments
This structure allows students to experience the stability and support they need to begin making meaningful progress.
Supporting the Whole Child
The Westside School Support
Education at Westside goes beyond academic learning.
Many of our students benefit from additional support to develop socially, emotionally and mentally. We work with a range of specialist professionals and interventions to ensure students receive the support they need to thrive.
Speech and Language Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Educational Psychology
Music Therapy
Emotional Therapy
Pastoral and well-being support
Alongside these services, students participate in enrichment activities and experiences that help build confidence, resilience and independence.
School Life at Westside
Life at Westside is designed to provide the structure, stability and support students need to rebuild confidence and re-engage with learning.
Small class sizes and strong relationships with staff help create a calm, focused environment where students feel supported, challenged and able to make progress.
Alongside academic learning, students take part in activities that support their personal development, confidence and well-being.
Enrichment and Personal Development
A consistent school day helps students build positive routines and maintain focus in their learning.Westside offers a range of enrichment activities that allow students to explore interests beyond the classroom while developing practical skills and confidence.
Activities may include:
• Performing arts
• Cookery
• Mentoring
• Volunteering
• Art and creative activities
• Sports
• E-sports
• Community and outdoor experiences
A Structured School Day
A consistent school day helps students build positive routines and maintain focus in their learning.
A Supportive Community
Westside works closely with families, carers and professionals to ensure students receive consistent support both inside and outside the classroom.
Our Community
The Westside Community
A safe and supportive community is central to life at Westside.
We work closely with families, carers and external professionals to ensure students receive consistent support both inside and outside the classroom.
Our staff maintain an open and approachable culture where students feel able to ask for help, build trust and develop confidence.
Safeguarding
The safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority.
If you have a safeguarding concern, please contact the school immediately so it can be addressed without delay.
Ofsted and Outcomes
Westside School has been judged Outstanding by Ofsted in two consecutive inspections, including under the new Ofsted framework.
Inspectors recognised the school's strong culture of high expectations, consistent support and the significant progress many students make during their time at Westside.
Students leave the school with recognised qualifications and go on to further education, training or apprenticeships, equipped with the confidence and skills needed for the next stage of their lives.
Leadership at Westside
Westside School is led by an experienced and committed leadership team, providing clear direction, strong oversight and a consistent focus on student outcomes.
Visit Westside
We are always happy to welcome visitors who would like to learn more about the school and our approach.
