Lydiard Park Academy

Revolutionising support for at-risk students

Lydiard Park Academy, a state school in Swindon, UK, has revolutionised support for at-risk students with its “School of Solutions” – a school within a school model – that significantly impacts students at risk of exclusion or those struggling to attend. This initiative has seen a remarkable success rate of over 80% reintegration, enhancing both Emotional and Intellectual Quotients.

Established as part of the Park Academies Trust, the academy educates 1,275 students aged 11 to 18, with a diverse demographic that includes 32 languages spoken and a high proportion of students needing special support. The core mission is centred on early intervention and a supportive environment to address educational barriers related to mental health issues.

The 'School of Solutions' is pivotal in fostering resilience and emotional intelligence through a unique curriculum that blends therapeutic and educational strategies. Noteworthy achievements include a 4% average increase in attendance and marked improvements in students' self-esteem and social-emotional skills.

Additional activities at Lydiard Park include partnerships with other schools and community engagement, significantly contributing to spreading effective mental health support and educational inclusivity. The programme's success has also influenced a broader adoption of mental health support across educational systems.

Should Lydiard Park Academy win the World's Best School Prize for Supporting Healthy Lives, the prize money would be used to expand the 'School of Solutions',allowing the model to be replicated both nationally and internationally, aiming to enhance its
groundbreaking approach to education and mental health.