Arbour Academy provides specialist Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision for learners aged 11–16 who are unable to access mainstream education due to their Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH), Communication and Interaction, and/or Sensory and Physical needs.
The academy offers a nurturing, inclusive and personalised learning environment, with a curriculum designed to meet individual needs, promote academic achievement and support personal development.
Admissions and Placement
Applications for placements at Arbour Academy are managed through Salford's statutory SEND assessment and placement process.
All pupils must have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Placement decisions are subject to formal consultation through the Salford SEND Hub and the academy's internal consultation procedures.
Arbour Academy currently offers both on-site provision and, where agreed following professional assessment and consultation, an Outreach Programme.
The Outreach Programme will cease in September 2027, after which all provision will be delivered through the academy's core specialist offer.
Curriculum and Learning
Arbour Academy provides a safe, supportive and structured environment in which learners are encouraged to re-engage with education, overcome barriers to learning and achieve their individual potential.
The curriculum is designed to address gaps in learning arising from disrupted educational experiences or periods of non-attendance, whilst developing the knowledge, confidence and skills needed for future success.
At Key Stage 4, learners have access to a broad and balanced curriculum leading to Entry Level, Functional Skills and GCSE qualifications, according to their individual needs and abilities.
Alongside academic learning, pupils benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities designed to promote confidence, independence, social development and preparation for adulthood.
Learners are supported to identify appropriate qualification pathways and progression routes, including post-16 education, training and employment opportunities.
Examination Access Arrangements
Where appropriate, examination access arrangements are identified and implemented in accordance with Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) regulations.
These arrangements are informed by evidence gathered by teaching staff and relevant professionals, including Educational Psychologists and Medical Practitioners, where required, ensuring that eligible learners can demonstrate their knowledge and abilities.
Pastoral Support and Specialist Interventions
Pastoral care, therapeutic approaches and targeted interventions are central to the provision at Arbour Academy.
Support is personalised according to each learner's assessed needs and delivered through a graduated approach, ensuring that interventions are regularly reviewed and adapted as pupils develop.
The academy works closely with families and a range of external professionals and agencies, including Speech and Language Therapy services, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), Educational Psychology Services and other relevant specialists.
This collaborative approach ensures that provision remains learner-centred, responsive and focused on achieving positive outcomes.
Social, Emotional and Personal Development
Social skills development, emotional regulation and nurture-based approaches are embedded throughout the school day.
Learners receive support within lessons, through targeted small-group interventions and, where appropriate, on a one-to-one basis.
These approaches help pupils develop positive relationships, improve communication, manage emotions and build effective strategies for overcoming challenges both within school and in everyday life.
Staff Expertise and SEND Leadership
All staff receive ongoing professional development in SEND, inclusive teaching practices and specialist approaches to supporting learners with additional needs.
The academy's qualified Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENDCO) provides guidance and support to staff, pupils and families, ensuring that individual needs are understood, appropriate provision is implemented and progress is regularly reviewed.
Our Commitment
At Arbour Academy, we are committed to ensuring that every learner feels safe, valued, included and supported to succeed.
Through high-quality teaching, personalised interventions, therapeutic approaches and strong partnerships with families and external agencies, we aim to empower pupils to achieve their potential and develop the confidence, skills and independence needed for a positive and fulfilling future.
For further information about SEND provision, please contact the Head of SEND and Inclusion, Elisabeth Cohen, on 0161 464 3483 or via email at ecohen@arbouracademy.uk
