Schools for children with the most complex learning
difficulties
This page gives a summary of the range of special schools in
Suffolk. Most children in Suffolk attend their local mainstream
school. In addition, Suffolk also has a range of special schools
and units for children with the most complex learning
difficulties.
There are nine special schools:
Northern Area
- The Ashley School (7-16 years) – for children with Moderate
Learning Difficulties (MLD).
- Warren School (3-19 years)– for children with severe (SLD) and
profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD)
These schools are in Lowestoft. The Ashley School includes some
residential places.
Southern Area
- Heathside (2-11 years) – for children with severe (SLD) and
profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).
- Belstead School (11-19 years) – for children with severe
(SLD) and profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).
- Beacon Hill School (5-16 years) – for children with Moderate
Learning Difficulties (MLD).
- Thomas Wolsey School (3-19 years) for children with complex
physical disabilities. Thomas Wolsey is a county school.
These schools are in Ipswich.
Western Area
- Priory School (8-16 years) - for children with Moderate
Learning Difficulties (MLD).
- Riverwalk School (3-19 years) – for children with severe (SLD)
and profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).
Children in the Nursery. Reception are based in Riverwalk's
unit at Sexton's Manor Primary School and Key Stage 1
classes.
These schools are in Bury St Edmunds. Priory School includes
some residential places.
- Hillside School (3-19 years) – for children with severe (SLD)
and profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).
This school is in Sudbury.
The majority of children will attend their local mainstream school.
However, if a special school is felt to be the best option for a
child, the decision to offer a place is made in the area office, in
discussion and agreement with parents.
Other useful sites
Thomas Wolsey Outreach Service
Beacon Hill Inclusive Resource
Special Units in Suffolk
Sensory Services
Behaviour Support Service
Relevant Documents
SEN and Disability Policy and Practice Handbook
(Word, 317Kb)
Suffolk Communication Aids Resource Centre
Brochure for Parents (Word, 604Kb)
Brochure for Professionals (Word,
596Kb)