Westfield is a member of the Teaching Alliance of Dorset Special Schools (TADSS). TADSS is a partner of the South Central Teaching School Hub. Our role in the SCTSH is to support the development and implementation of the Early Career Framework (ECF), National Professional Qualifications (NPQ) and CPD.

TADSS leads outreach support in Dorset mainstream schools through a partnership with Dorset Council. For three years TADSS led the development of Therapeutic Thinking across Dorset, training over 100 school settings. TADSS continues to lead Therapeutic Thinking in Dorset special schools.

The intention of our alliance is to promote excellent practice across and beyond the Dorset special schools including the following five areas:

  1. Initial Teacher Training For several years we have recruited a small cohort of trainee teachers for the primary age range.  They spend time in both mainsteam and special schools.  Our training strand aims to deepen their understanding of  how to create a positive learning experience for all. We are now involved in supporting ITT through Poole SCITT.
  2. Continuing Professional Development We organise a number of events each year focussed on special educational needs, which are open to all staff working in schools and educational settings.
  3. Research and Development Staff across all the special schools can get involved in education-related research.  Recent projects include using technology, animal therapy and promoting independence.
  4. School to School Support We have a team of highly experienced staff who are available to give support to other schools as well as Outreach teachers and subject focussed peer support groups.
  5. Leadership Development Our goal is to support our staff and develop leadership potential.  We do this through national and local leadership programmes, internships and experiential learning.

Click here to go to the TADSS website.