The Steps provision at Paignton Academy offers a supportive, tailored environment for school-phobic students to transition smoothly into secondary school life. Located on the Borough Road site, this unique setting is designed to prioritise individual needs, ensuring a positive experience for both students and their families.
Key Features of the Provision:
Small Group Setting: Limited to just 12 students across Years 7 to 9, ensuring personalised attention and a close-knit environment.
Separate Entrance: Students have a dedicated entrance for privacy and comfort.
Access to Facilities: Despite being a separate provision, students can enjoy the main school’s canteen, as well as sports, hospitality and catering, and science facilities.
Adapted Uniform: Students wear a pale blue polo shirt, black joggers or black school skirt, plain navy blue round neck sweatshirt. All items of uniform can be purchased from Asda or Sainsbury's for example. Students are also allowed to wear the Paignton Academy Uniform if they choose to do so, this can be purchased from our uniform provider - Proserve Limited, click Paignton Academy to access their website.
School Hours:
Start Time: 9:00am
Finish Time: 2:50pm
Break times are separate from the main school site to enhance comfort and reduce anxiety.
Transition Pathway:
Our goal is to ensure students and parents feel supported every step of the way. Here's how we guide the process:
Initial Contact: In February, Mrs. L. Kenny reaches out to each parent to discuss the specific needs of their child. This helps us understand how to best support each student.
Parental Visits: Parents are invited for an individual visit to the provision. This is a chance to meet the staff and get a feel for the environment.
Enhanced Transition Program: During the summer term, students take part in enhanced transition activities designed to build familiarity and confidence before the new school year begins. Students will ne accompanied by a member of staff from their current school setting.
Start of the School Year: On 3rd September 2025, the provision will welcome only Year 7 students for their first day, allowing them to settle in without the presence of older year groups.
Ongoing Provision:
This nurturing environment is aimed at providing the confidence and resources your child needs to thrive in their secondary school journey. For more information or to discuss your child’s needs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Contact Details:
Email: louise.kenny@paigntonacademy.tsat.uk
Telephone:01803 403003