Welcome from Lee Cross, Headteacher
It is with great pleasure that I can introduce myself as the Headteacher of Elmwood School. Throughout my journey as a senior leader within this school I can honestly say that the staff, pupils, parents and professionals work tirelessly together to achieve the same common goal for our pupils to be the “best version of themselves”.
This is achieved through a dedicated team who are extremely knowledgeable in the changing landscape of breaking down barriers to learning for those pupils who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties identified as a primary need within their EHCP.
Elmwood is a calm, purposeful and safe environment where the educational and emotional needs are paramount for all that embark on our learning community. As a school we align our practice through the “Rights of the Child” and work in collaboration so all understand that with these rights comes responsibilities. We also provide opportunities for “risk taking” so that we can all make inform choices within our own community. The impact of such is fantastic outcomes at KS4, resulting in a high percentage of year 11’s remaining within education, training or employment.

| Care for Self | Care for Others | Care for Our Environment | 
|---|---|---|
| I am resilient when things get difficult. | I talk to people, not about them. | I respect my own and others property. | 
| I am proud of my achievements. | I practice being honest, compassionate and empathetic. | I show a contribution to our community. | 
| I take responsibility for my own learning. | I celebrate in others achievements. | I care about our environment. | 
| I take responsibility for my own emotions and behaviours. | I reflect upon my impact on others. | 
The Elmwood Way.
The Elmwood Way identifies the core values being at the heart of what we do, aligned to these values are observable behaviours that are demonstrable by all who are involved with Elmwood’s Learning Community.
Next comes the aims of the school which show the journey of the child through the schools designated bases Nurture (Years 7 and 8); Transition (Year 9) and Pathways (Years 10 and 11) and the observable behaviours and activities they will complete during that period of time.
Finally comes the vision, which encompasses the schools drive to re-imagine the potential of your child (and the staff who work with them) to make them active and positive contributions beyond the gates of Elmwood School.

A proud member of Matrix Academy Trust

Elmwood joined Matrix Academy Trust in September 2025. Matrix’s approach to transforming schools has made them one of the highest performing academy chains in the UK. They have improved the life chances of thousands of young people, many living in some of the most disadvantaged parts of the country. Their success is down to: leaders instilling the highest of behaviour expectations; providing exceptional pastoral support with wellbeing at the centre; utilising the most evidence-informed approach to curriculum.