Larwood, is a dynamic and successful primary special school for up to 105 boys and girls with a range of social, emotional, and mental health related difficulties. At any given time, many pupils have an additional diagnosis of ADHD and autism and some may have other Special Educational needs.

The school is named after Harold Larwood, the English fast bowler famous for his part in winning the Ashes. The name Larwood was chosen because Harold was a working man who became a sporting hero through effort, hard work, and by ensuring that an individual effort helps a team to function and improve. This is an incredibly important part of our school ethos where we help pupils understand that hard work, no matter what you do, will always pay dividends over time. 

Located in Stevenage and situated in its own grounds, Larwood is well staffed with excellent resources and facilities for learning, sport and recreation, play and enjoyment.

We have a wide-ranging curriculum, providing learning, various rewarding and enjoyable opportunities, off site activities as well as topics delivered across the school. We take great pride in that our curriculum, alongside all other elements of provision never stand still and will continually evolve. The ethos and approach to the management of pupil behaviour is developed from a consistent use of the Hertfordshire Steps program which emphasises a therapeutic approach as well as an ethos of consistent positive support, rewards and consequences. Pupils make dramatic and progressive change when they join us and this is always fantastic to witness.

In 2016, the school achieved Academy status. This has been utilised to make a number of changes to what we offer over time. Currently, we have the following:

• 16 pupils who are based in a 'school within our school' environment called The Space Hub. This is for pupils whose main presenting need is autism.
• An outreach service commissioned by our local DSPL area. This equates to school-based support for individuals and staff training for up to 25 primary schools within Stevenage
• Brandles School (secondary SEMH) joined the Trust in February 2020. We continue to work closely together to improve outcomes and provision with our secondary colleagues.

As a member of the Larwood Team you will receive support, guidance and training to enable you to deliver the high expectations we have as well as unlocking and realising the true potential of our pupils. For many pupils and parents, Larwood School is a life-changing experience.

All staff are expected to embrace this philosophy and deliver consistent responses and actions at all times. If you believe in yourself and have the desire and commitment to succeed with the most challenging and rewarding children, then we cannot wait to hear from you and look forward to welcoming you to our school.