It was a pleasure to welcome around 30 SENCos from local schools to Abbot’s Hill to discover more about Bligh House, our new specialist provision opening in January 2027.

This ‘school within a school’ will support pupils experiencing emotionally based school non-attendance (EBSNA), working closely with families to rebuild confidence, restore trust and help children reconnect with learning.
Following the success of Bligh House at Cobham Hall, our second provision also brings together the charitable Mill Hill Education Group and the specialist SEND expertise of Chiltern Way Academy Trust.

Together, we are exploring a ‘third way’: a partnership between independent education and a multi-academy trust, combining our strengths to help address a national challenge and create more opportunities for children whose needs are not being met.

As ever, it was inspiring to hear Ian McCaul and the Chiltern Way team talk with passion and expertise about transforming the lives of young people.

Thank you to all the SENCos who joined us, shared their experiences and contributed to the thoughtful discussions. We look forward to working together to make a difference for local children and families.