Hartlepool Free School

The Deputy Principal has over 14 years' experience with SEN and SEMH needs, including as a SEMH and Wellbeing Lead.

“Rick has worked with children in Hartlepool with Special Educational Needs and Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs for over 14 years, including in his previous role as SEMH and Wellbeing Lead.”

The Principal is personally passionate about supporting SEN students, being the parent of a child with SEN.

“Tristan is passionate about supporting students with SEN. He is the parent of a child with SEN and believes every child should be supported to reach their potential.”

School prioritises student safety with a robust safeguarding curriculum including a cyber academy membership.

“we prioritise student safety with a robust safeguarding curriculum, including a cyber academy membership for each child.”

SLT roles are dual-tagged with Designated/Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead responsibilities.

“Deputy Principal - Designated Safeguarding Lead”

Students take part in a Duke of Edinburgh/Outdoor Learning curriculum, culminating in achieving a Bronze or Silver DofE award in upper school.

“Students will achieve a Duke of Edinburgh award at either Bronze or Silver.”

Students take part in the Duke of Edinburgh programme as part of community engagement initiatives.

“take part in initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh programme”

School describes its curriculum as combining academic excellence with personal growth and a nurturing environment.

“Our curriculum combines academic excellence with personal growth, outdoor experiences, and practical skills, creating a nurturing environment where every child can flourish.”

The school's named core values are Kindness, A Growth Mindset, Resilience and Personal Responsibilities.

“His values align with the Make it different values of; Kindness, A Growth Mindset, Resilience and Personal Responsibilities.”

Curriculum supports personalised pathways including A-Levels, GCSEs, and vocational qualifications.

“Whether pursuing A-Levels, GCSEs, vocational qualifications , or personal development, our highly adaptable curriculum ensures every student can achieve their personal best.”

School encourages exploration of a wide range of post-16 options as part of preparing students for adulthood.

“opportunities to explore a wide range of post-16 options”

School is newly opened (Sept 2024) with no published performance data yet, as pupils have not undergone any assessments

“As a newly registered school, which opened on 1st September 2024, our pupils have not yet undergone any assessments.”