The Forest Resource Centre is a specialist SEND provision within Samuel Barlow Primary Academy, supporting pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It provides a nurturing, structured environment where pupils can feel safe, build confidence, and succeed in their learning.

How we support children

The Forest provides specialist support for a small number of children with identified additional needs. Every child receives an individualised approach that reflects their strengths, needs and aspirations.

Children attending The Forest benefit from:

  • A calm, structured and predictable learning environment;
  • Highly skilled staff with expertise in supporting children with SEND;
  • Personalised teaching approaches and individual learning plans;
  • A strong focus on communication, emotional literacy and independence;
  • Opportunities to learn alongside mainstream classes where appropriate, helping children remain connected to the wider school community.

Our vision

The Forest reflects our whole-school values of inclusion, belonging and high expectations for every child. Our aim is to ensure that all children, regardless of need, feel valued, understood and supported to achieve their full potential. As an integral part of our school community, The Forest follows the same values and ethos that shape every aspect of school life.

How to apply

All children at The Forest Resource Centre have an education, health and care (EHC) plan and child places are allocated through the Integrated Children’s Disability Service (ICDS) at Nottinghamshire County Council.

Further details about the consultation process and contact details to arrange a visit can be found below.

Consultation Process

Stage one

ICDS will consult with us to enquire about places and suitability. If your child’s needs can be met, ICDS will direct us to carry out a second stage consultation.

Second stage

We will contact families, as well as your child’s current placement, if applicable, to arrange a visit to meet your child and get to know more about them. 

Third stage

The academy will let ICDS know whether your child’s needs can be met and whether we have space in an appropriate class.    

Final stage

ICDS will confirm if your child has been successful in securing a place. If your child is offered a place, you can find further detail on our transition process here.

Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit from September 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is this a separate school?

No. The Forest is part of Samuel Barlow Primary Academy, allowing children to remain included within the wider school community.

How many pupils will The Forest support?

The Forest has 24 places, organised into three classrooms with eight pupils in each class.

What is the staffing ratio?

Each classroom has one teacher and two support staff, ensuring a high level of adult support.

Will my child still follow the national curriculum?

Yes. Pupils access a broad, adapted curriculum including core subjects and wider learning.

How is learning adapted?

Learning is tailored to meet each child’s individual needs through small group teaching, personalised learning plans, structured routines and targeted support.

What additional support is available?

Where appropriate, children can access support from a range of specialist professionals, including educational psychologists and speech and language therapists. Referrals are made based on each child’s individual needs.

What does a typical day look like?

A structured day including academic learning, sensory breaks, social and emotional development, and outdoor learning opportunities.

Why is it called The Forest Resource Centre?

The name reflects growth, nurture, and strength, supporting children to develop at their own pace while celebrating our local heritage and proximity to Sherwood Pines and Sherwood Forest.

Will my child mix with other pupils in the wider school?

Yes, children will mix with the wider school community where appropriate, through planned and supported inclusion opportunities.

How are parents and carers involved?

We work closely with parents and carers through regular communication, review meetings and shared planning to support each child’s progress. Day-to-day communication is supported through the Reach More Parents (Weduc) app.

What are the long-term aims?

The long term aims are to build resilience, independence, and positive relationships, enabling children to achieve their potential before moving to secondary education.