01 / LEARNING
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Qualifications with a purpose
Core academic subjects sit alongside vocational, creative and practical routes so pupils can build a meaningful pathway to post-16.
SMS Changing Lives SchoolA community of
A community of
opportunity.
A specialist school where young people can learn differently, build confidence and move towards ambitious next steps. Small classes, strong relationships and a curriculum that mixes academic learning with practical experience.
Small classesAcademic + vocationalSpecialist SEMH support
Life at SMS
01LearnEnglish · Maths · Science
02CreateArt · Music · Practical skills
03AchieveQualifications · Careers · Next steps
Welcome to SMS
A school built around the young person.
We work with pupils who may have found previous school experiences difficult. Our job is to make learning feel possible again — with clear routines, high expectations, practical support and adults who know each pupil well.
02 / SUPPORT
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Support that builds independence
Small groups, SEND strategies, pastoral support and specialist input help pupils take part, regulate and become increasingly independent.
03 / COMMUNITY
✓
Known, valued and safe
Strong relationships and predictable routines create a calm school community where pupils can focus on learning and their next step.
Our pathways
One school. Three ways to learn.
Central, Thrive and Outreach offer different environments and levels of structure while remaining part of the same school community.
Central
Small-group specialist teaching
Old Trafford. Structured academic and vocational learning with specialist SEMH support.
ThriveCalm, consistent and nurturing
A lower-transition environment for pupils who benefit from greater consistency and a smaller learning community.
OutreachHighly bespoke education
Individualised education for pupils who currently need learning away from a larger peer setting.
Curriculum
What can you study?
Our curriculum combines core subjects, personal development and practical options. Individual programmes are shaped around need, starting point and future destination.
EnglishMathsScienceICTPSHREArtMusicCookingConstructionSportHair & BeautyOccupational StudiesDigital Skills
Qualification routes are available up to Level 2 across the curriculum, matched to each pupil's starting point and pathway.
School calendar
Know what’s coming up.
Find the 2026/27 term dates, half terms, holidays and INSET days in one place.
2026/27
Term dates & calendar
View the full month-by-month school calendar and key dates for families.
NEXT BREAK
Autumn half term
24 October – 1 November 2026
Dates shown as supplied in the SMS School Calendar.
Safeguarding at SMS
If something doesn’t feel right, tell us.
Every pupil should know who they can speak to. Talk to any trusted adult in school or contact the safeguarding team.