Roehampton Hospital School has been awarded a national Certificate of Excellence for its tailored and inclusive approach to teaching children with complex mental health needs.
Based within the Priory Hospital Roehampton, the school provides personalised education for 11 to 18-year-olds undergoing inpatient treatment, many of whom face significant emotional, psychological or behavioural challenges.
The accolade, part of the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards, recognises its pioneering work in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and commitment to integrating education with clinical care.
Headteacher Russell Cooper said the recognition reflects the “passion and commitment” of his staff, who adapt lessons to suit both students’ educational goals and the pace of their recovery.
“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition,” he said. “It reflects the passion and commitment of our team, who work every day to ensure every student feels supported and inspired to succeed.”
A full curriculum in a clinical setting
Despite operating in a secure clinical environment, Roehampton Hospital School offers a full academic curriculum, including GCSEs, A Levels, BTECs, Functional Skills, and post-16 pathways. Ofsted has rated the school ‘outstanding’, and its educators work in close collaboration with the hospital’s multidisciplinary teams to provide joined-up support tailored to individual needs.
Cheryl Smith, education director at Priory, described the award as a tribute to the team’s inclusive, person-centred approach.
“This award is recognition of the inclusive, person-centred education provided at Roehampton which is extremely important to us,” she said. “It demonstrates their dedication and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of education alongside the medical care being provided.”
Personal thanks from a celebrated author
Alongside the school-wide award, three individual staff members were also recognised with personal Certificates of Excellence for their outstanding contributions.
The team received a handwritten letter from Sir Michael Morpurgo, author and president of the awards, who described their work as both “life-changing” and “exhausting”.
“You open doors, shine a light,” he wrote. “For a child to have a great teacher like you is so important.”
The Certificate of Excellence represents one of the highest honours for educational professionals in the UK, and signals the vital role that specialist teaching can play in long-term recovery and life chances for vulnerable young people.
