Two Schools - One Community

Springwell Learning Community is the umbrella name for Springwell Special Academy and Springwell Alternative Academy.  Springwell Special Academy provides cross-phase education for Barnsley children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties. Springwell Alternative Academy works in partnership with local primary and secondary schools to provide Day 6 provision.

Both of these schools are part of the Barnsley and Kirklees Special Provision Partnership, formed through additional collaboration of Greenacre School, Joseph Norton Academy and Springwell Learning Community.  More information about our partnership can be accessed here.

At Springwell, our full time staff of around 100 is dedicated to ensuring that every pupil can settle quickly and is supported to make good progress in line with our vision and mission.

Key Contacts

Sarah Wilson, Executive Principal

Sarah has overall responsibility for the school with the support of the local governing body. Together they set the school’s strategic direction by analysing current needs and planning for the future. Sarah joined the school in April 2020, just as the nation went into lockdown! Sarah works closely with other members of the Trust and Special Provision Partnership Executive Team.

Lydia Harrison, Head of School at Springwell Special School

Lydia was excited to join the team in September 2021 and is responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of the school, the quality of teaching and learning and pupils’ achievement. Lydia also supports the development of our staff team, organising training opportunities based on the needs of the school and the aspirations of our pupils.

Natalie Myers, Head of School at Springwell Alternative Academy

Natalie joined the team in 2022-2023 after a successful period of leadership at an alternative provision in Lincolnshire. Natalie oversees the quality of education at our AA sites and attends the Fair Access Panel on behalf of our school.

Sarah Somersall-Frith - AHT Special Provision

Faye Cooke - AHT Safeguarding (DSL), Attendance & Behaviour Special Provision

Jamie Marsh - SENDCO and Designated Teacher Special Provision

Lucy Boote - AHT and SENDCO Alternative Provision

Rowen Peacock - Safeguarding (DSL), Attendance & Behaviour Special Provision