Welcome
It is my privilege, as Executive Headteacher, to welcome you to Heywood Academy, a school where quality teaching and learning takes place.
Heywood Academy is a special school in Rochdale that offers tailored educational support for children and young people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and/or who may experience Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) associated with ASC.
Heywood Academy is the latest new school in the New Bridge MAT, and will be a 75-placement school for students aged 11-19 with a diagnosis of ASC and/ or SLCN
associated with ASC.As part of the New Bridge Group Multi Academy Trust, we share our school’s mission statement, “Learning together, learning for all, learning for life” with the MAT and this is at the heart of everything we do. It is our belief that all children and young people, whatever their background or ability, will achieve their full potential and become valued and participating members of our community.
It is my view that we provide the very best educational opportunities and outcomes; promoting and supporting holistic development alongside academic achievement for all our children. We provide an inclusive learning environment offering a unique, creative curriculum that focuses on outcomes and destinations, supporting young people into adulthood with consistently high expectations. This includes skills for independent living, community access, social inclusion, employability and preparation for higher and further education. We aim to develop resilience, determination and strength of character.
With high expectations for all of our children and young people, appropriate pathways are identified early to support children and young people achieve their full potential and reach their desired destinations, such as:
- Being Independent
- Working with support in my community
- Volunteering in my community
- Playing a part in my community
- Taking control
- Taking part
- Being involved
Being part of a Multi Academy Trust allows us to work closely and establish relationships with other providers across the trust. This has been key in coordinating relevant, challenging and aspirational work placements for our young people. We continue to encourage ambition and raise aspirations. I believe in the concept of lifelong learning and the notion that learning should be accessible, regardless of need.
I am extremely proud to be working with an outstanding staff team that is built on trust, dedication, commitment and passion. We are all working towards one common goal and this is the success of all our children and young people.
I pride myself in working closely with our children and young people, staff, families and other key stakeholders to ensure Heywood Academy remains an outstanding school and successful outcomes are achieved by all.
Myself, the staff, Governors at Heywood Academy and Trustees from the MAT are incredibly proud of our children and young people, past and present, and we feel privileged to play a part in their lives.
Laura Millard
Executive Head Teacher