CASE STUDIES
PROJECT 1
Setting: PRU and Local Authority Support, 2023
Service Areas: EBSA Framework Development | Attendance Strategy | School Improvement Partner
In response to a growing number of emotionally based school avoidance cases, North Somerset commissioned KSD Education to advise on EBSA strategy and inclusive attendance. We conducted a full review of PRU and AP provision, co-developed a new reintegration pathway, and advised on the creation of a borough-wide EBSA centre.
We supported Lighthouse Trust by acting as School Improvement Partner for Voyage PRU, strengthening leadership accountability and building inclusive practice into every aspect of provision.
The Result:
Plans are now underway to launch the EBSA Centre and Voyage PRU has seen improved reintegration outcomes and reduced placement breakdowns.
PROJECT 2
Setting: Borough-Wide Reform Project, 2023–2025
Service Areas: Strategic Commissioning | Inclusion Planning | Quality Assurance | Policy Design
Hackney Education commissioned KSD Education to lead a borough-wide SEND and AP reform project. With growing demand and complex needs across schools, the LA needed a sustainable commissioning model that balanced quality, cost, and compliance.
We developed a 3-tier AP framework, introduced a borough-wide QA toolkit, and implemented the HEALs framework to improve provision for vulnerable learners. Working in partnership with schools, parents, and settings, we established new reporting systems and strategic panels for ongoing review and impact tracking.
The Result:
Permanent exclusions fell significantly, financial forecasting improved, and the LA’s ILACS inspection secured a Good rating. The HEALs model is now embedded across Hackney’s inclusion strategy.
PROJECT 3
Setting: Mainstream Secondary School, 2023–2024
Service Areas: SEND Strategy | Staffing Restructure | Financial Planning | School Improvement
Blacon High School came to KSD Education following a Requires Improvement judgement from Ofsted, with particular concerns around SEND provision, behaviour and leadership capacity. We provided a full review of SEND systems, redesigned staffing roles and introduced a robust SEND strategy aligned with high expectations.
We worked alongside governors and SLT to build financial sustainability, streamline processes and embed a culture of accountability and inclusive practice. All staff received CPD tailored to the needs of neurodiverse learners and emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA).
The Result:
Within 12 months, Ofsted recognised the school’s transformation and placed it on Effective Action. Leaders now feel equipped to continue their journey toward excellence.
PROJECT 4
Setting: Residential SEND School, 2023
Service Areas: Executive Leadership Support | Crisis Recovery | Coaching | Inspection Readiness
When a senior leader became unexpectedly unwell, Bright Futures faced a period of uncertainty across their SEND provision. With an inspection on the horizon, they needed rapid, expert support to bring clarity, continuity and confidence.
KSD Education delivered emergency leadership support, including executive coaching, school improvement planning and an evidence-based self-evaluation framework aligned with Ofsted’s expectations. We rebuilt staff morale, embedded trauma-informed relational practices and stabilised the culture of the school.
The Result:
The school secured an Outstanding Ofsted rating in July 2023, during a time of crisis. KSD’s calm, knowledgeable and strategic input helped leaders retain focus and drive improvement with care.
PROJECT 5
Setting: Replacing a Failed AP Site, 2022–2023
Service Areas: Strategy | Leadership Coaching | Curriculum Reform | Staff Development
Following the closure of a previous alternative provision deemed unfit for purpose, Great Schools Trust turned to KSD Education to lead the design and development of a new AP model. We conducted a rapid diagnostic review and developed a complete new provision, The Kings Phoenix Academy, designed around neurodiversity, inclusivity and high expectations.
We created a trauma-informed curriculum and worked closely with leaders to implement staff training, safe recruitment practices and a new safeguarding and quality assurance model. The transformation extended beyond policy, we built a culture.
The Result:
The new provision launched successfully and secured a Good judgement from Ofsted in 2025. The site is now a national model for relational practice in alternative provision.