Dear Parents, Carers and the Luccombe Hub Community,
As we reflect on another remarkable year at Luccombe Hub, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for all that our learners, staff, families and supporters have achieved together.
This has undoubtedly been one of the most significant years in our school’s history. We were incredibly proud to receive a Significant Strength judgement during our Independent Schools Inspection. This prestigious recognition places Luccombe Hub amongst the top 10% of Independent SEND schools nationally, acknowledging the exceptional quality of education, therapeutic support and care we provide for our learners. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, professionalism and passion of every member of our team and reinforces our commitment to providing the very best outcomes for young people with additional needs.
At the heart of our success is the therapeutic approach that underpins everything we do. This continues to have a profound and lasting impact on our learners, not only in terms of academic progress but also in developing confidence, resilience, emotional wellbeing and independence. Our nurturing environment enables learners to re-engage with education in a way that is meaningful, empowering and tailored to their individual needs.
We have also been delighted to celebrate the successful opening of The Granary Alternative Provision in Milborne, which has already become a valued addition to our provision. The Granary offers bespoke learning opportunities for young people who benefit from a different educational environment and is already proving to be an outstanding success. We are excited to continue developing this provision and extending opportunities for even more learners in the future.
We have also been excited to expand our curriculum through the addition of Abavia, our specialist land-based provision. Abavia offers learners unique opportunities to gain practical experience in agriculture and mechanics while developing valuable life and employability skills. Learners can now work towards recognised LANTRA qualifications, including Tractor Driving, alongside a range of hands-on agricultural and mechanical experiences. This provision reflects our commitment to offering meaningful, vocational pathways that engage learners, build confidence and prepare them for future education, employment and independent living.
Our commitment to preparing learners for life beyond school continues through our expanding careers programme, Hazel and her team are hosting a dedicated Careers Week, bringing together a wide range of local tradespeople, businesses and industry professionals. Throughout the week, learners will have the opportunity to hear first-hand about different career pathways, explore employment opportunities, ask questions and gain valuable insights into the world of work. We are incredibly grateful to the many local businesses and employers who are generously giving their time to inspire our learners and help them develop aspirations for their futures.
Our partnership working with the Local Authority has also gone from strength to strength. Together, we have worked proactively to improve SEND transport arrangements, reducing the reliance on 1:1 taxis, and more minibuses and shared transport wherever possible. By developing more efficient and sustainable transport solutions, we have not only improved the experience for many of our learners but also contributed towards a more effective use of public resources. We are grateful for the positive working relationship we continue to build with The Councils and look forward to developing this further.
This year, our learners have once again achieved fantastic examination and accreditation results, and we could not be prouder of each and every one of them. Their determination, resilience and commitment to learning continue to inspire us all. Alongside these achievements, the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our parent and learner surveys has been both encouraging and affirming. The heartfelt testimonials we receive regularly remind us why our work is so important and reinforce the difference Luccombe Hub makes to the lives of our young people and their families.
As with every successful organisation, this year has also brought change. We are sad to say goodbye to Amy Woodhouse, who is stepping down from her role as our Parent Governor. Amy has been a valued member of our governing body, and I would like to thank her sincerely for the time, commitment and support she has given to Luccombe Hub over the years. At the same time, I am delighted to welcome Lindsey Billingham, who joins us as our new Parent Governor. We look forward to working with Lindsey and know she will make an excellent addition to our governing team.
We have also said farewell to several members of staff who have moved on to new opportunities, and we thank each of them for their valued contribution to Luccombe Hub. At the same time, we have been delighted to welcome a number of new colleagues to our growing team. We encourage you to visit the ‘Meet the Team’ section of our website to find out more about the wonderful people who make Luccombe Hub such a special place.
Looking ahead to September, I am particularly pleased to announce that Chloe Carter-Mills will be joining Luccombe Hub in a new role, providing administrative and strategic support to myself and the Senior Leadership Team. Chloe brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, and I know she will be a tremendous asset to our school. I hope you will all join me in giving Chloe a very warm Luccombe welcome.
I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Friends of Luccombe Hub, whose tireless fundraising and unwavering support continue to enhance opportunities and resources for our learners. One of the highlights of the year was the incredible success of HubFest. The event truly showcased the spirit of the Luccombe community and was a wonderful celebration of everything we stand for. It was heartwarming to see learners, families, staff, governors, trustees, volunteers and members of the local community come together to support our school. My sincere thanks go to everyone who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the day such a success, and to our parents and carers whose support, generosity and commitment helped create such a fantastic atmosphere. HubFest was a tremendous achievement and one that we hope will continue to grow in the years ahead.
The success of HubFest is yet another example of what can be achieved when our Friends, staff, volunteers and families work together for the benefit of our learners. To our Governors and Trustees, thank you for your continued guidance, challenge and encouragement throughout the year. Your vision and commitment have been instrumental in helping us achieve so much.
Finally, I would like to thank you, our parents and carers, for your trust, encouragement and partnership. Working together is fundamental to the success of our learners, and we greatly value the relationships we have built with our families. Your continued support enables us to provide the very best opportunities for every young person who walks through our doors.
As we look ahead to another exciting year, we remain committed to ensuring that every learner is valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we will continue to innovate, grow and celebrate the many achievements that make Luccombe Hub such a special place.
I wish you and your families a safe, relaxing and enjoyable summer break, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting year of learning and success.
With best wishes,
Henri Monier-Williams
Principal
Luccombe Hub