Bligh House FAQs

Choosing the right educational setting for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and it’s natural to have questions. Bligh House SEND Centre at Abbot’s Hill is a new provision, developed jointly by Mill Hill Education Group and Chiltern Way Academy Trust and based within the grounds of Abbot’s Hill, Hertfordshire.

Below, we’ve answered the questions we hear most often from parents and carers — covering everything from our approach to SEND and day-to-day life at Bligh House, to admissions, and costs.

We’re starting with a small cohort which we will grow gradually, so early enquiries are welcome. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please get in touch — we’re happy to talk it through. Please email enquiries to ehcpadmissions@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

What types of special educational needs do you support and what ages?

Bligh House supports students aged 11-14 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs, of which anxiety is a prominent barrier to engagement; this is typically in line with an autism diagnosis. The students at Bligh House typically have a history of Emotional Based School Non Attendance (EBSNA). Some of the students at Bligh House have other high incidence needs such as Dyslexia or Dyscalculia; students are typically working within two years of age-related expectations across the curriculum.

Do I need and Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to apply?

No. Students without EHCPs can express interest but funding will need to be sourced independently.

Can I visit the provision before applying?

We will prioritise visits from families of students for whom we have received Local Authority consultations, but will try to arrange visits anyone who is interested in the provision.

What is the process for admissions?

Local Authorities will typically send a consultation for placement on behalf of a student. Bligh House then has 15 days to respond to this enquiry. During these 15 days, we typically invite in for a tour and taster day, and then make a decision as to whether we are the best provision for the student. Parents of students who are looking for a new provision will often send a request for consultation to their EHCP caseworker.

What curriculum do you offer?

The curriculum at Bligh House is designed to support each child’s individual needs and help them feel confident and ready to learn. The curriculum is designed to fill gaps in learning attributed to time missed from education.

What therapies or specialist services are available (e.g. speech and language, occupational therapy)?

We offer Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) interventions, tailored to meet the needs of the individual, in line with the student’s EHCP. We also offer numeracy and literacy interventions.

What is the staff to student ratio?

Typically, classes will have up to eight students, with one teacher. Specific members of support staff are on hand to facilitate regulation and interventions.

What is the uniform?

Our uniform will be practical and comfortable, considering sensory needs and flexibility for individuality.

Regular School Days: School jumper (different styles to choose from), black trousers, black or white polo shirt or t-shire, plain black trainers.

On smarter days – trips, celebrations, parents’ evenings etc, students might wear smart shoes and a smart shirt underneath their jumper.

What are your school hours and term dates?

We will operate a 38 week school year, split across three terms. The school day will run from 8.45am to 3.15pm Monday to Thursday with an earlier finish on Fridays.

What should I do if I want to discuss my child's need in more details?

Please complete our Enquiry Form and a member of the team will give you a call to discuss your child’s needs in more detail.