A new independent school for children with special educational needs is set to open in Maidenhead next year. The school provider, Spaghetti Bridge, has acquired the site of the now-closed Highfield Prep School and plans to establish a new institution named Bray Bridge School. This transition comes after Highfield Prep, which operated for over a century, closed its doors in summer 2022 due to several challenges, including declining student enrollment and increased financial burdens from tax changes.
Bray Bridge School will offer 65 specialist places for children and young people aged six to 19, focusing on a variety of needs. These include speech, language, and communication difficulties; autism; social, emotional, and mental health challenges; as well as trauma and attachment-related experiences. The school aims to cater to a wide range of individual requirements, ensuring a supportive educational environment.
Renovations and Educational Approach
The opening of Bray Bridge School is anticipated for spring 2027, following extensive renovations to the existing building. CEO of Spaghetti Bridge, Dan Alipaz, expressed enthusiasm about this expansion, stating, “We are incredibly excited to be opening Bray Bridge School and expanding our provision in Maidenhead.”
The new institution will adopt Spaghetti Bridge’s innovative Enterprise Learning approach, which integrates relational support with a focus on project-based academic and skills-oriented learning. This model is designed to prepare students for real-world challenges while addressing their specific educational needs.
Moreover, Bray Bridge School will align with Spaghetti Bridge’s Beautiful Schools Policy. This framework emphasizes creating “therapeutically informed” learning environments that accommodate diverse needs, reflecting contemporary workplaces and preparing students for life beyond school. The organization emphasizes that such environments are crucial for fostering high-quality, purposeful education.
Expanding Educational Options
The establishment of Bray Bridge School marks Spaghetti Bridge’s 13th school site acquisition, reflecting a robust commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for children with special needs. The organization operates several other schools, including Oak Bridge School in Croydon, Chilton Bridge School in Yeovil, Heather Bridge School in Yelverton, and Hampton Bridge School in Northampton.
As the new school prepares to welcome students, it represents a significant step forward in providing tailored educational options for those who may require additional support, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive environment.
