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Therapeutic education where learners with diverse needs belong, grow and thrive.

Trusted By Local Authorities

About Us

We are an independent SEMH specialist school for children with Special Educational Needs and Education Health and Care Plans. At SVA, we ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and empower students to reach their full potential. Our holistic approach supports mind, body, and spirit, nurturing a lifelong love for learning. We are dedicated to providing a safe environment for young individuals to thrive academically and in life.

Our Core Offer

Why families and local authorities choose Spark vale

Emotional Wellbeing

We know that young people learn best when they feel emotionally safe and supported. At Spark Vale, we create calm, consistent spaces where wellbeing is the priority. With daily check-ins, regulation breaks, therapeutic staff, and built-in access to creative therapies like art, music, and movement. Our trauma-informed approach means we meet learners where they are, emotionally and developmentally, every single day.

Social Development

Many of our learners arrive with fractured school experiences and struggles with trust, friendships or social interaction. We gently rebuild those foundations through small-group work, social communication sessions, and carefully structured opportunities to connect with peers. We focus on emotional readiness, not pressure -  supporting each learner to navigate relationships, conflict and connection in ways that feel safe and empowering.

Academic Excellence

Academic progress matters- but how we get there matters just as much. Our highly personalised curriculum is tailored to each young person’s needs, strengths and EHCP outcomes. With small classes, high staffing ratios, and flexible pathways, we offer a full range of qualifications - from Functional Skills to GCSEs, BTECs, ASDAN, and even A Levels for Post-16 - all delivered at a pace that respects emotional readiness and celebrates progress.

Family partnerships

We work in true partnership with families because they are central to every learner’s journey. We offer weekly drop-in sessions with the Headteacher, regular phone updates, personalised planning meetings, and parent/carer workshops on autism, ADHD, trauma and more. Families are never left out of the loop. We listen, adapt, and walk the journey together.

Future Readiness

Preparing for adulthood starts early at Spark Vale. Our learners take part in life skills sessions. From cooking and budgeting to travel training and social communication. We offer digital literacy, enterprise projects, mentoring, work placements and careers support to help each young person find their path. Whether their next step is college, supported internships or employment, we equip them to move forward with confidence and skills that last a lifetime.

Community Roots

We believe learning should never happen in isolation. Being embedded in the local community gives our learners meaningful experiences beyond the classroom. From outdoor learning and enterprise projects to real-world mentoring and volunteering, these connections build confidence, purpose and a sense of belonging, helping each young person see themselves as part of something bigger. At Spark Vale, the community isn’t just where we are - it’s part of who we are.

Our Vision & Values

The geometric symbol represents the journey of self-discovery and empowerment of our young people, showing that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and shine. Its intricate design of concentric triangles symbolises the balance between the inner and outer worlds, encouraging students to find harmony within themselves and their surroundings.

Admissions to
Spark Vale

Ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for new students. Each stage, from initial referral to final transition planning, is designed to make the experience as seamless as possible.

Stage 1
Referral and Initial Contact

The local authority refers the young person to Spark Vale Academy (SVA). If the referral is accepted, the SENDCO or Assistant will arrange a school visit for the parents, carers, and the young person.

Stage 2
Personalised School Tour

Parents, carers, and the young person receive a personalised tour of the SVA site, tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.

Stage 3
Decision and Confirmation

Following the visit, the SENDCO or SEND Assistant will inform the local authority of their decision. Once verified by the local authority, a formal letter of admission is sent to the parents or guardians, confirming acceptance at SVA and scheduling an admissions appointment.

Stage 4
Admissions and Transition

At the admissions meeting, the family will meet with one of the representatives (SENDCO, SEND Assistant, Attendance Officer, Safeguarding Lead, or Inclusion Lead). The student’s start date and individual transition plan, including hours, will be confirmed, ensuring a smooth integration into SVA.

Working with Parents & Carers

We strongly believe in collaborating closely with parents and caregivers to help their child achieve their full potential.

  • Termly parents days
  • Termly reports
  • Access to parent portal
  • Family education events

The Spark Spirit

Our School Pillars

Belong

We create a place where everyone is seen, heard and valued. We build trust, celebrate difference and help each other feel part of the Spark Vale family. Whether you’re a student, a teacher or a visitor , you matter here.

Grow

Learning looks different for everyone  and that’s okay. At Spark Vale, we focus on progress over perfection. We support each other to keep trying, reflect on our journey and build the skills we need for life.

Commit

.

Thrive

We help every learner find their strengths and imagine a positive future. Through real-world experiences, life skills, therapy and encouragement, we support students and staff to thrive ,not just in school, but in life.

Inspiration from the Proprietor

Our mission at Spark Vale is to empower our students to thrive, not only in spite of their differences but because of them. We honour diversity and inclusion whilst fostering a supportive environment where every child, regardless of their SEN status, can aim high and pursue their dreams.

Mital Thanki

Blog & News

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11 Jan 2022

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Office setting
11 Jan 2022

Event title heading

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our team

Meet the talented individuals behind our success.

Join our dynamic team and make an impact

Spark Vale fosters a vibrant culture that values collaboration, innovation and personal growth. Join us in creating impactful solutions while enjoying a supportive and dynamic work environment.

View Our Polices

School policies are essential for creating a safe and productive learning environment. They provide clear expectations and guidelines that help foster respect and responsibility among students, staff, parents and all stakeholders.

Vision, Mission, Values

Safeguarding at SVA

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and it's our priority.

Latest Inspection Report

Discover the latest findings from our comprehensive inpsection reports.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about the product and billing. Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our team.

How are Little Spark classes structured?

Classes are structured into engaging sessions led by experienced tutors, combining interactive activities, exam preparation, and skill-building exercises to make learning enjoyable and effective.

How does Little Sparks support students' transition to secondary school?

Our programme focuses on developing essential study skills, mindset, and confidence, easing the transition to secondary school and preparing students for changes to learning styles.

Where are Little Sparks afterschool clubs held?

Our After School Clubs are conveniently held at various local schools, making it easy for parents to access and ensuring minimal disruption to their daily routines.

What age group is Little Sparks suitable for?

The After School Club is tailored for students in Year 3 to Year 6, preparing them for their SATs exams and fostering a love for learning.

What subjects are covered at Little Sparks?

Our After School Clubs primarily focus on Maths and English, providing comprehensive preparation for the SATs exams.

What is the class size of Little Sparks?

We maintain small class sizes, with a maximum of 15 students per class, ensuring personalised attention and a collaborative learning environment.

Are there any long-term commitments required?

No, there are no long-term commitments. Parents have the flexibility to enrol their child on a month-by-month basis, providing convenience and peace of mind. There’s a 30 day cancellation period. Card payments are taken monthly and run from September - June.

What benefits do students gain from attending Little Sparks?

Students benefit from improved academic performance, enhanced study skills, increased confidence, and a smooth transition to secondary school, setting them up for success in their educational journey.

What qualifications do tutors hold?

Our tutors are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in education. They undergo rigorous training and hold relevant qualifications to deliver effective instruction tailored to students' needs.

How can I enrol my child for Little Sparks?

Enrolling your child is easy. Simply click here to enrol.

What is the cost of Little Sparks?

Our After School Club is affordably priced at £55 per month, offering exceptional value for comprehensive SATs preparation and academic support.

Can my child join Little Sparks mid-term?

Yes, students can join Little Sparks at any time during the academic year, subject to availability. We welcome new students and ensure they receive the necessary support to catch up and integrate seamlessly into the programme.

Find Out More About Our School, Contact Us Today