We are not currently operating. We are currently awaiting our DfE Inspection.
Head of Education's Welcome
Where every thought counts — and every child matters.
First Thought Independent School is a small, nurturing special school that provides a calm and highly individualised learning environment for children aged 5 to 11 with Autism, Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), and complex additional needs.
Our school is part of First Thought Care Services, allowing us to provide a seamless link between care, education, and therapeutic support. Every pupil has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and our curriculum is designed around their unique profile - supporting social communication, emotional wellbeing, and academic progress at every stage.
We use the EQUALS Informal and Semi-Formal pathways, adapted by our teaching team to promote curiosity, independence, and confidence through creative, sensory and real-world learning experiences. With small class sizes, high staff ratios, and an embedded trauma-informed and autism-friendly approach, we help each child feel secure, understood, and celebrated for who they are.
Our team work closely with parents, carers, and multidisciplinary professionals to create personalised learning journeys that nurture communication, independence, and resilience. Learning is assessed using meaningful, person-centred frameworks that value every small step of progress - because at First Thought, progress is more than a grade; it’s confidence, curiosity, and connection.
Safeguarding and wellbeing sit at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is simple: to prepare every learner for a positive, fulfilled, and independent future by creating a community where they can truly belong.
If you would like to learn more or arrange a visit, we would love to welcome you to our school family.
Hannah Dadge
Head of Education