Compass Community Schools’ newest addition, Fen Park, is now welcoming its first cohort of children.
Opened in response to the growing demand for specialist SEND education, Fen Park works with boys and girls from 7 to 17 years of age. The school is set within the rural village community of Bicker, in the borough of Boston, Lincolnshire. In keeping with the values shared across all Compass Community Schools, Fen Park fosters a close-knit, inclusive atmosphere that encourages the building of strong, purposeful relationships between staff and students.
The school’s state-of-the-art facilities include a dedicated science and art space, therapy rooms, a sensory space and specialist primary and secondary classrooms. There is also outdoor space – including a covered area, a quiet back garden with raised flower beds, seating areas and sports equipment.
The school is run by executive headteacher, Craig Prestidge. Along with his team of teachers – including specialists in maths, English and science – there is a therapeutic pastoral lead, four experienced teaching assistants and a primary specialist. In addition to their specialisms, all staff are SEND trained.
Once built, Fen Park quickly welcomed members of the local community and other potential stakeholders to view its facilities. Hosting a series of open days, including a Macmillan coffee morning, the school was able to show people around – explaining the aspirations of the new school, whilst allying any concerns that local residents may have had.
Headteacher, Craig, is delighted to see how well his new school has been received. “People understand what we have set out to achieve at Fen Park,” he said. “The need for SEND provision has never been greater in our area. I am delighted that Compass Community Schools stepped in to meet this challenge, and I have no doubt that the opening of Fen Park will transform the life chances of many young people, for many years to come.”
In common with his Compass colleagues, Craig believes that the combination of specialist facilities and specialist staff provide the perfect environment in which SEND students can learn and grow. “One of the strengths of our smaller school setting is the personalised, one-on-one support each child receives. This allows us to create a learning environment where every child feels supported, understood, and valued – giving every one of our students their best chance to become their best selves.”
The school’s bespoke nature was quick to attract praise from prospective parents – who applauded the way that provision is created around the needs of its students, and the clear implications this has for students’ future success.
Fen Park looks set to become a thriving part of the community. Lincolnshire and Peterborough local authorities have both placed students at the school – with all 24 places now being filled. A waiting list has been started for students who may wish to join in the future.
After the tremendous team effort to get the school ready for its first intake, Craig and his colleagues are looking forward to working with their new students as soon as possible. Compass Community would like to extend their best wishes to Craig, his fantastic team and the new students at Fen Park.
Please email pupil.admissions@compass-schools.org with any enquiries.
