New specialist school set to open in Effingham

Aurora Poppyfield headteacher Suzy Everitt.

Submitted for publication in the Dorking Advertiser

A new Surrey secondary school for children with special needs will be officially opened by Mole Valley MP Sir Paul Beresford on March 31.

Aurora Poppyfield in Effingham, Surrey, aims to support children aged 11 to 16 who have previously struggled in mainstream education by offering a personalised curriculum and bespoke interventions.

It’s the latest service in the Aurora portfolio which has 17 specialist services across England.

Sir Paul, the Conservative MP for Mole Valley, will be cutting the ribbon on the day alongside head teacher Suzy Everitt, who has over 25 years’ experience of both mainstream and SEN education.

Suzy Everitt said: “Poppyfield is an amazing opportunity to create the right ethos and culture where our young people can thrive.

"I’ve seen lots of good practice in my career and I intend to bring everything I’ve learnt to ensure every pupil can explore and develop their own unique talents, skills and abilities.”

Situated in the former British Legion building in Effingham, students will enjoy access to a range of specialist on-site facilities.

As numbers are limited to 40 pupils, Poppyfield staff will have the opportunity to collaborate with specialist teams of professionals to identify the individual needs of each child.

Suzy said: “Our aim is to help all our pupils to build good relationships, to be independent and to fulfil their potential so that they able to contribute to society. We intend to be a launch pad for their very happy futures.”

Poppyfield is also looking to recruit teachers and teaching assistants and those interested in working at Poppyfield can contact Liz Hudson at Liz.Hudson@the-aurora-group.com to find out more.

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