Our Head Master, Dr Burley, is at the House of Lords on 27 November 2023 for the parliamentary launch of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) Annual Report, which showcases King's High's summer disability playgroup with Evergreen School in Warwick.

The holiday club was borne out of the desire to support the local community by providing a safe, joyous environment for Evergreen students with multiple and profound learning disabilities to build their confidence and independence.

Activities range from arts and crafts to cooking, soft play and exploring the great outdoors in our Forest School at the heart of the Warwick Schools Foundations's 55-acre campus.

Dr Burley said, 'At King's High, we recognise the scarcity of affordable childcare options for children with learning disabilities and are very proud to share our facilities, and our time, to provide invaluable support to Evergreen parents and their young children.'

Nick Evans, Executive Headteacher Evergreen School added, 'Holiday provision for our children, young people and families has been few and far between in years gone by, so to be able to offer this now with the support of the amazing team at King's High and Warwick Schools Foundation is transformational. Not only do our children and young people have access to affordable holiday provision, but more importantly, it is an opportunity for our pupils to get to know and spend time with their peers at the Foundation, in familiar surroundings. This partnership is the embodiment of social cohesion and partnership working, where barriers are removed and pupils from across the schools are enriched.'

'I have learnt the importance of having trust in letting the children determine their own activities so that they learn independence in a safe environment.' King's High Student

Julie Robinson, Chief Executive of Independent Schools Council commented, 'Cross-sector partnerships between independent and state schools play a central role in widening access to educational opportunities, filling gaps in provision, and supporting the overall development of students...'

Read the full report below. You'll find King's High and Evergreen School's partnership on p.28.