Leaways School
HackneyMessage from the Headteacher
At Leaways School in Hackney, we follow the National Curriculum and ensure our pupils experience the full breadth of a mainstream offer within a nurturing, specialist setting. We are proud to provide high-quality learning opportunities in an environment of ambition and care, where every young person is supported to achieve meaningful, positive outcomes.
The foundation of our success lies in the strong, trusting relationships built between staff and pupils. It is through these relationships that confidence grows, self-belief takes root, and real progress becomes possible. Our pupils leave us not only with recognised qualifications, but with the resilience, independence and self-esteem they need to thrive in further education, training and employment.
In Key Stage 2, children follow a curriculum that builds secure foundations in core skills within an atmosphere that fosters curiosity, engagement and enjoyment.
In Key Stage 3, pupils experience a broad and balanced curriculum that extends challenge, broadens horizons and deepens understanding.
By Key Stage 4, pupils are offered a range of Functional Skills, GCSE and vocational qualifications across a full suite of subjects, ensuring they are well-prepared for appropriate post-16 pathways.
All classes are small, with no more than seven pupils, taught by specialist teachers and supported by at least one additional member of staff. This structure allows us to provide highly personalised learning and targeted interventions that remove barriers and build trust, confidence and success.
Our strong pastoral team ensures every pupil has a trusted adult who knows them well and advocates for their needs. They model calm, consistency and compassion — resolving issues quickly and reinforcing the routines that keep pupils safe and engaged.
We recognise that our success depends on partnership. Parents, carers and local authorities work closely with us to form a triangle of support — pupils, families and school — united in securing the very best outcomes for every young person.
Leaways School is more than just a school; it is a family. This is not a slogan but a truth you can feel when you walk through our doors. I warmly invite you to visit us and experience it for yourself.
Jo Shuter
Headteacher
What We Offer
Education
Education
Our curriculum follows the National Curriculum and reflects the breadth of a mainstream education, tailored to meet the individual needs of pupils with SEMH and associated difficulties. From Key Stage 2 through to Key Stage 4, pupils study a broad range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Design Technology, Music, Media, Food Technology, Careers, ICT, PE and PSHE.
At Key Stage 4, pupils can access Functional Skills, GCSE and vocational pathways that match their abilities and aspirations. High expectations, consistent routines and personalised teaching ensure that every learner experiences success. Academic progress is closely monitored through assessment, feedback and intervention, allowing us to celebrate achievement and address gaps swiftly.
Therapeutic approach
Therapeutic approach
Therapeutic support is at the heart of our provision. We understand that learning can only happen when pupils feel safe, understood and emotionally regulated. Our in-house therapeutic team works closely with teaching and pastoral staff to create a joined-up approach that meets both emotional and educational needs.
Therapies include Counseling, Therapeutic Mentoring, Walk & Talk, Draw & Talk, Music Therapy, Sense & Connect and other creative interventions that help pupils explore emotions, build resilience and develop positive coping strategies. These sessions take place in a safe, trusted environment and are tailored to individual need. By addressing barriers to learning, therapy helps pupils to feel calm, confident and ready to engage fully in school life.
Life Skills and Vocational Preparation
Life Skills and Vocational Preparation
We prepare pupils for life beyond school through a strong focus on independence, employability and community participation. Life Skills lessons develop confidence in essential areas such as communication, teamwork, travel, finance, cooking and personal care.
Vocational learning is equally important. Pupils take part in BTEC qualifications, work-related learning, careers education and college visits — all linked to the Gatsby Benchmarks for good career guidance. Our aim is to ensure every pupil leaves with clear next steps and the practical experience to succeed in further education, training or employment. By combining academic study, personal development and real-world learning, we help pupils to see themselves as capable, independent young adults ready for the future
