About the School
Yew Tree Farm School is an independent special school providing education for children of primary school age within a rural, farm-based setting. The school was established to meet the needs of pupils who require a calm, nurturing and highly supportive environment in order to engage successfully with learning.
Our ethos and values
At Yew Tree Farm School, we believe that children learn best when they feel safe, understood and supported. Our ethos is rooted in building trusting relationships and providing a calm, consistent environment where pupils are able to develop confidence and self-belief.
We recognise that many of our pupils have experienced challenges in previous educational settings. Our approach is nurturing and relational, with a strong emphasis on emotional wellbeing alongside learning. We take time to understand each child as an individual and adapt our support accordingly.
• Nurture and care
• Respect and positive relationships
• Safety and wellbeing
• Individualised support
• Learning through meaningful experiences
Our setting – the farm
Yew Tree Farm School is based on a working farm, providing a unique and purposeful environment for learning. The outdoor setting offers pupils space, routine and opportunities to engage in practical, hands-on activities that support regulation, confidence and engagement.
Being based on a farm allows learning to be grounded in real-life experiences. Pupils are supported to take part in meaningful tasks, care for animals and work outdoors, helping them to develop responsibility, independence and a sense of achievement within a safe and structured setting.
Our pupils
Yew Tree Farm School supports children of primary school age who have a range of additional needs, including autism spectrum conditions and social, emotional and mental health needs. Many of our pupils have experienced difficulties in previous educational settings and benefit from a smaller, more individualised approach.
We recognise that every child’s journey is different. Our provision is designed to meet pupils where they are, providing consistency, patience and support to help them feel secure, develop positive relationships and re-engage with learning at their own pace.
Working with families and professionals
We believe that positive outcomes for children are best achieved through strong partnerships with families and professionals. Open communication and collaboration are central to how we work, and we value the knowledge and insight that parents and carers bring about their child.
We work closely with Local Authorities, therapists and other professionals involved in a child’s care and education. This joined-up approach helps to ensure that support is consistent, appropriate and responsive to each child’s needs.
Governance and Executive Board
Yew Tree Farm School is overseen by an Executive Board which provides strategic leadership, oversight and accountability for the school. The Executive Board supports the school’s vision and ensures that statutory responsibilities are met, including safeguarding, governance and financial oversight.
The Executive Board works closely with the school’s leadership team to monitor standards, support effective decision-making and ensure that the needs of pupils remain central to the development and operation of the school.
Executive Board membership:
Chair: Hilary Macdonald
Deputy Chair: Stephen Grix OBE
Members:
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Dr Abie Alfrey
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Jackie Noble
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Karen Baker
School leadership and proprietor:
Proprietor and Headteacher: Edwina Grix
School Operations Manager and Finance Director: Adam Penman